Can have I have lipedema surgery with varicose veins? (Photos)

Question

I have lipedema in my lower extremities, as well as varicose veins. I have had the veins removed surgically already (over 6 years ago), but many have returned. I just recently learned that there is a surgical treatment for lipedema, and I finally have hope that my legs could actually feel and look better. After doing some reading, however, I’m concerned that I won’t be able to have the lipedema liposuction procedure without treating the veins again. Is vein removal required first?

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Taylor Made than you for sharing your photos.   Not every varicose vein needs to be treated before lipedema reduction surgery, however, when there are either some large varicose veins or a large number of smaller varicose veins it is best to get them treated before lipedema reduction surgery.  There is an increase in venous disease in women with lipedema and venous disease increases inflammation in the legs and can worsen leg symptoms. However, probably the most important reason to get the varicose treated is the veins can lead to increased bleeding during and immediately post op from the surgery.  Most expert including myself recommend a comprehensive approach to treating lipedema with a low carb anti- inflammatory diet , medical grade compression before and after lipedema reduction surgery.

Bernard Salameh, MD, FACS · Answer

Varicose veins and venous insufficiency are a common issue for many women, and they often become more pronounced with age. 
Lipedema patients who have varicose veins or venous in-sufficiency, it is almost always better to treat the Lipedema first with properly done liposuction surgery. The reason for this is that the release of fibrosis and decongestion from liposuction greatly reduces the hydrostatic pressure in the tissues surrounding the veins and reduces pressure in the veins. 
This tends to improve the varicose veins and venous insufficiency, but more importantly, it allows for more successful subsequent venous therapy, if needed. This is one more reason why proper tumescent anesthesia with fluid should always be given as a preparatory step to cause vasoconstriction and reduce bleeding during Lipedema liposuction surgery.

Resat Aktas, MD · Answer

Scientifically the best is first having your varicous veins been treated and later have your liposuction surgery. Technically it is possible to perform your liposuction first however, untreated veins can cause some serious complications or extended recovery for liposuction. That's why it would be fine if you have treatment for your veins.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I don’t think you have a lip edema. Your thighs look fairly normal with moderate skin laxity which is probably age related that you did not include your age.
Lower extremity liposuction typically does not deliver the same quality outcomes. Liposuction has the potential of delivering other body areas. There’s also a substantial difference in skill and ability among plastic surgeons when it comes to delivering consistent quality, liposuction results. I would be very selective and only move forward with Liposuction with great caution after having vented numerous plastic surgeons to make sure you’re in the hands of someone who has efficient skillet experience. This procedure can easily leave you disappointed. Each plastic surgeon will have their own comfort level regarding doing liposuction on patients with varicose veins. You’ll have to ask each provider during each consultation. I recommend having multiple consultations for anybody seeking permanent, irreversible body contouring procedures that can’t potentially leave you disfigured.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Can have I have lipedema surgery with varicose veins? (Photos)

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Answer: Varicose veins and understanding lipedema

Answer: Varicose veins and understanding lipedema

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Can have I have lipedema surgery with varicose veins? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Varicose veins and understanding lipedema

Answer: Varicose veins and understanding lipedema

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Everything you need to know about Lipedema Surgery

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