Surgical lipedema treatment
Surgical lipedema treatment can greatly improve the quality of life of affected women.
Indication
Lipedema is characterised by an abnormal accumulation of fat and symmetrical swelling of the limbs. The accumulation of fat is often seen in the lower limbs, although the feet are spared. In around a third of cases, the upper limbs can also be affected.
Treatment
The aim of the treatment is to reduce pain and swelling and to improve aesthetics, mobility and quality of life.
Lipedema is a chronic condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach. A plastic surgeon is the right expert for the surgical treatment of lipedema in order to achieve optimal results and provide you with holistic care throughout the entire treatment pathway.
Aftercare and result
Postoperative treatment often involves wearing compression garments and continuing conservative therapy. The result of lipedema surgery is usually permanent, but does not cure the disease completely.
We would be happy to discuss your individual needs and create a customised treatment plan for you.
Summary
Type of intervention
outpatient or inpatient, general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation
Pain level
moderate to strong
Suture removal
resorbable sutures
Scars
depending on the combination
Final result
6-12 months
Return to regular activity
1-3 weeks
Avoid sport
2-12 weeks (depending on the sport)
Cost
please call to inquire about pricing
Frequently asked questions about the surgical treatment of lipedema
What are typical lipedema symptoms?
Symptoms include pain, swelling, a tendency to bruise and musculoskeletal complaints. The texture of the fat layer is atypical and resembles grains of rice or walnuts under the surface of the skin.
How does lipedema differ from obesity?
Lipedema is often confused with obesity, but is largely resistant to exercise and diet. Furthermore, the uneven distribution of fat is very specific, as are the symptoms, which do not occur in obese patients without lipedema. Nevertheless, obesity can also occur in patients with lipedema, often due to a physical inability to exercise sufficiently.
What does the conservative treatment of lipedema involve?
Conservative approaches include lifestyle changes, compression garments and lymphatic massages. However, for most patients these do not succeed in preventing the progression of the disease.
How does surgical treatment of lipedema work?
Liposuction is one of the most common procedures in aesthetic surgery and is the basis for permanent lipedema treatment. Liposuction can provide significant relief from the symptoms of lipedema and an aesthetic improvement.
What techniques do we use?
Power-assisted tumescent liposuction, a validated and highly effective treatment, targets lipedema by gently removing diseased subcutaneous fatty tissue while leaving the skin intact.
What other treatments are available for lipedema?
In severe cases of lipedema, liposuction alone is often not sufficient. Remaining excess skin makes body tightening necessary. Mixed forms such as lipolymphedema should also be recognised, as microsurgical lymph node transplants can be helpful in such cases.
Who is a lipedema specialist?
A lipedema specialist is a plastic and aesthetic surgeon with specialised experience in the treatment of lipedema patients, particularly in the areas of liposuction, body lifting and microsurgery. In addition, close co-operation with trained therapists for lymphatic massage should be ensured.
Are the results of surgical lipedema treatment permanent?
The results of liposuction, possibly in combination with a tightening operation, are permanent in the case of lipedema. However, hormonal changes or weight gain can affect the remaining fatty tissue. Many patients experience a significant improvement in their quality of life, less pain and increased mobility.
Will visible scars remain?
Small scars remain after liposuction, which are usually no larger than 5 mm. With tightening operations, on the other hand, the scars are larger but are placed in the least conspicuous areas possible. We reduce the risk of scar complications through a careful suturing technique and thorough aftercare.
What are the risks associated with surgical lipedema treatment?
As with any major procedure, there are risks, including thrombosis, hematoma, delayed healing and scarring problems. Asymmetries and skin irregularities can remain after lipedema surgery in particular.
What do I need to consider before lipedema surgery?
Of course, we will provide you with comprehensive instructions that you should follow before and after lipedema surgery. You can also find general information on pre- and post-operative care in the “For patients – resources” section.
When can I exercise again?
Depending on the type of exercise and the operation performed, these activities should be suspended for around 2 to 12 weeks after the operation so as not to impair the healing process.
How much does lipedema surgery cost?
The cost of lipedema surgery varies depending on the type and extent of the procedure. We will be happy to provide you with a non-binding cost estimate.
Are the costs covered by health insurance?
It is rarely possible for the costs to be covered by health insurance; however, we offer the treatment exclusively as a self-pay service.