Diagnosed with lymphedema in lower leg and ankle in 2010 after 2 perineal tendon surgeries. Is lipo safe to get rid of swelling?

Question

I have been diagnosed with lymphadema in my lower leg and ankle in 2010 after 2 perineal tendon repair surgeries. Is liposuction a safe option to get rid of the swelling?

Ellen A. Mahony, MD · Answer

That's a tough area to treat and the best course of action would be to have your tendon surgeon communicate with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss the likely causes of the problem.  In some cases targeted lipo may improve the leg contour but there are times when the lymphatic system may have been injured during surgery and the lymphedema can become a chronic problem, despite intervention with lipo.Bottom line:  more information is needed regarding the cause of lymphedema to offer the best option in treatment.  Liposuction is not a guarantee of improvement.Thank you.In good health,Ellen Mahony, MD

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction has been shown to be effective in treating some cases of lymphedema.  Sometimes this is done in very high volumes.  Some areas are easier to treat than others however.  The thighs are easier to manage than the lower part of the legs using liposuction.  The procedure is not typically a permanent solution either. Find a board-certified plastic surgeon and discuss your options. Best wishes to you.

Tuan A. Tran, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

In most instances, plastic surgeons employ liposuction to treat lymphedema safely and effectively.  It would help us more if you include a picture of your condition.  Thank you and best wishes.

Diagnosed with lymphedema in lower leg and ankle in 2010 after 2 perineal tendon surgeries. Is lipo safe to get rid of swelling?

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Diagnosed with lymphedema in lower leg and ankle in 2010 after 2 perineal tendon surgeries. Is lipo safe to get rid of swelling?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.