Older rats get those lumpy bumpies all the time. Hopefully the tumor grows slowly (its the first thing I think of when I find a lump IN the neck), and as you said doesn't affect his breathing. Male rats are very prone to malignant cancers and only rarely to mammary (benign) tumors.
I have added a gentle feel of the throat and neck area to my "feel-over" exam with my rats, especially the older ones.
If its small now, it may stay small. I wouldn't remove it unless you feel its going to affect his natural lifespan. If it grows slowly don't put him through a painful surgery at his age. Older rats don't heal as well. Truffle is getting a HUGE mammary tumour removed tonight, and she's 29 months old. I am hoping her health and young demeanour also means she will heal fast
Can you take a pic so we can see where exactly its located?
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