Am I suffering from lipedema? Or a regular lipo could help me get rid of my saddlebags and the fat on my thighs? (Photo)

Hello,Thank you for your question. It is difficult to tell with the photos alone whether or not you have lipedema. Typically, patients get circumferential swelling to the legs all the way down. It does look like you have that type of fullness in the thighs all the way around. Usually patients with lipedema have fullness in the calves and ankles, which in your case look like they are quite well sculpted. You may be having swelling for other reasons. However, if you have pain in your fatty layer that would strongly point towards this being lipedema. Without pain, I would call this lipedema. The first thing I would do is get diagnosed properly and discuss your symptoms with a doctor. Please seek a board-certified surgeon when planning your treatment. Thank you and best wishes.

Lipedema is best treated with liposuction.  Please see an expert who is trained in the proper techniques for your individual case.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photographs.  Lipedema is an increasingly common diagnosis but one requiring an in-person evaluation.  Treatment is similar to other areas of localized diet and exercise resistant fat pockets - liposuction.  See a board certified plastic surgeon in consultation.