Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Question

I think I have lipedema. I have attached pictures of my ankles, front and back thighs, front and side of legs. I understand I need to see a doctor to obtain a proper diagnosi, but please let me know your opinion. Regardless of what I do, the fat wont go away from my thighs and calves. In fact, my calves protrude like a huge fat muscles. My thighs have cellulite and I feel the fat rolls under my skin. Your opinion is greatly appreciated. Thank You!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Lipedema affects nearly 25 million women in the US. As a board certified plastic surgeon and a board certified lymphedema expert, I manage complex lip edema cases with a combination of liposuction and skin tightening procedures. 
Most cases of lipedema improve with liposuction and fat lipolysis with laser and Coolsculpting. A combination approach is ideal. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos. Looking at your legs, you may have lipedema. You describe difficulty losing weight in your legs, which is common with lipedema. There are other symptoms associated with lipedema such as pain and swelling and you don't mention them. It is controversial whether you can have lipedema without any tenderness, pain, or swelling, but some doctors like myself believe it is possible. I encourage you to seek a diagnosis from an expert who is very familiar with lipedema and if diagnosed properly to pursue treatment options. Wishing you the best of health.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Lipedema is a very underdiagnosed condition in the US and the world. This is mainly from a lack of understanding. There are a lot of symptoms and differences from just weight gain. However, I would need to understand a lot more about your particular case. As an FYI, there is a small group of us that is working very closely with the lipedema community to educate as well as develop Standard of Care Guidelines for the US. 
For more information please visit our lipedema educational website.
Hope this helps!
Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS

Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery
USC Keck School of Medicine
Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

E. Ronald Finger, MD · Answer

Judging from your photographs, you do not have lymphedema. However, a physical exam may determine that there is some lymphedema there.
Your primary problem is obesity. You will need to consult an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best course for you to take. A good start would be a healthy diet, some exercise, and a change to a more healthy lifestyle.
Thank you for your question and photographs. Best of luck to you.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

There appear to be issues with skin laxity and excess fat. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon in your geographical area to discuss your goals and recommended treatment plans.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

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Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Lipedema Surgery

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Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

Answer: Do I have lipedema or am I just obese? (photos)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lipedema Surgery

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