Lipedema is a chronic condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat, typically in the lower body, including the hips, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms. This condition is often symmetrical and can lead to a disproportionate appearance, as well as discomfort and mobility issues.
Symptoms of lipedema may include the following:
- Enlarged and disproportionate lower body, often with a smaller upper body.
- Easy bruising and sensitivity to pressure.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected areas.
- Swelling (edema) that may worsen over time.
- A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the legs.
The exact cause of lipedema is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, hormonal, and vascular factors. Lipedema primarily affects women, and it often becomes more noticeable during hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause
Lipedema is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination and medical history. Additional tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be performed to assess the extent of fat accumulation and rule out other conditions. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for lipedema aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Conservative measures may include compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), and specialized exercises. In cases where conservative treatments are not effective, liposuction may be considered to reduce excess fat and alleviate symptoms. Our plastic surgeon can discuss all available treatment options with you and help develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals.
Liposuction can be an effective treatment option for reducing excess fat and alleviating symptoms of lipedema. Tumescent liposuction techniques, such as WAL liposuction (Water-Assisted Liposuction) or PAL liposuction (Power-Assisted Liposuction), are often used to minimize trauma to the tissues and achieve smoother results. Our plastic surgeon specializes in liposuction techniques tailored to address the unique challenges of lipedema and can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure.
Recovery from liposuction for lipedema varies depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing characteristics. Patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas, which can be managed with medication and compression garments. Most individuals are able to resume light activities within a few days, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. Our plastic surgeon will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery.
To schedule a consultation for lipedema treatment, please contact our office to speak with a member of our team. Our plastic surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your symptoms, and recommend a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve relief from lipedema-related issues.
Before and after photos of lipedema patients treated with liposuction can be viewed in our office during your consultation. These photos can provide you with a better understanding of the potential results of liposuction for lipedema and help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
Lipedema is a chronic condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat, typically in the lower body, including the hips, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms. This condition is often symmetrical and can lead to a disproportionate appearance, as well as discomfort and mobility issues.
Symptoms of lipedema may include the following:
- Enlarged and disproportionate lower body, often with a smaller upper body.
- Easy bruising and sensitivity to pressure.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected areas.
- Swelling (edema) that may worsen over time.
- A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the legs.
The exact cause of lipedema is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, hormonal, and vascular factors. Lipedema primarily affects women, and it often becomes more noticeable during hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause
Lipedema is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination and medical history. Additional tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be performed to assess the extent of fat accumulation and rule out other conditions. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment for lipedema aims to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Conservative measures may include compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), and specialized exercises. In cases where conservative treatments are not effective, liposuction may be considered to reduce excess fat and alleviate symptoms. Our plastic surgeon can discuss all available treatment options with you and help develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals.
Liposuction can be an effective treatment option for reducing excess fat and alleviating symptoms of lipedema. Tumescent liposuction techniques, such as WAL liposuction (Water-Assisted Liposuction) or PAL liposuction (Power-Assisted Liposuction), are often used to minimize trauma to the tissues and achieve smoother results. Our plastic surgeon specializes in liposuction techniques tailored to address the unique challenges of lipedema and can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure.
Recovery from liposuction for lipedema varies depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing characteristics. Patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas, which can be managed with medication and compression garments. Most individuals are able to resume light activities within a few days, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. Our plastic surgeon will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery.
To schedule a consultation for lipedema treatment, please contact our office to speak with a member of our team. Our plastic surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your symptoms, and recommend a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve relief from lipedema-related issues.
Before and after photos of lipedema patients treated with liposuction can be viewed in our office during your consultation. These photos can provide you with a better understanding of the potential results of liposuction for lipedema and help you make an informed decision about your treatment.