I have just been diagnosed with stage 1 moving into stage 2 lipoedema. What are my lipo options? (Photos)

Question

Had issues with fat deposits in my upper outer thighs since puberty at 10 years old. Will begin compression treatment as soon as I can. Want to begin consults (free) with potential surgeons for lymph sparing lipo.

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Many surgeons claim they treat lipedema. For best results with lipedema reduction surgery, there are some key indicators to look for.
Does the surgeon treat? Lipedema comprehensively? Lipedema is a disease and there is no cure. Lipedema reduction surgery can improve symptoms, and mobility and decrease swelling. However, surgery is not a cure. The most effective treatment for lipedema is comprehensive which includes compression and an anti-inflammatory diet as well as surgery for those who need it.

How long has your surgeon been treating lipedema? And does he or she have long-term follow-up? Recently, many plastic and cosmetic surgeons have developed an interest in lipedema but many of them are not experienced. The longer a surgeon's been treating lipedema. The more likely they are to have optimal results. In addition, long-term follow-up is crucial to properly evaluate the results of the surgery. Look for a surgeon who has long-term follow-up going out years for the results of their lipedema surgery. Even better look for a surgeon who has published their surgical results and can tell you about their outcomes and complications.
 Does the surgeon use lymph-sparing techniques? Lipedema has an increased risk of developing of secondary lymphedema. There are reports of liposuction surgery causing secondary lymphedema in patients with lipedema. If your surgeon says there's no such thing as lymph sparing or there is no increased risk of lymphedema in patients with lipedema, you should keep looking for another surgeon.
Is your surgeon an expert in the diagnosis of adipose and lymphatic diseases.? Lipedema is a subcutaneous adipose tissue disease. Several other subcutaneous adipose tissue diseases can look like lipedema. It is important that your lipedema surgeon can recognize the different subcutaneous adipose tissue diseases. The different adipose tissue diseases respond differently to treatments so it's important to have the correct diagnosis.
Is there a good fit? Not every doctor and patient fit well together. Some surgeon has skills that fit perfectly with certain patients' needs and other surgeons fit with other patients' needs. There can also be personality differences that can influence the fit of a patient with their surgeon. Look for a surgeon who has the skill to deal with your needs and can establish a rapport and trust with you.
Finally, does the lipedema surgeon have good cosmetic results on early-stage lipedema? Lipedema reduction surgery is geared toward reducing pain, and swelling, improving mobility and quality of life in women with lipedema. Treatment of early-stage and advanced lipedema can result in these improvements and symptoms. Additionally, in early-stage lipedema, a good cosmetic result is usually possible. If you have an early stage lipedema look for a surgeon with good cosmetic results for early stage lipedema.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Understanding of lipedema is limited. Estimates vary widely from 1 in 72,000 to 1 in 5 women have been diagnosed with lipedema.  To my knowledge no standard protocols or diagnostic tests are currently available. Recommend that you initiate a dialog with your PCP to collect your clinical and family history as there does appear to be a hereditary component. Referral to specialists or support groups may provide info that is beneficial in determining if you have lipedema.  Liposuction can certainly help in this regard.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

you will need a combination for lipedema and I would suggest liposuction/contouring now to limit the growth of the cells but also hormonal therapy to keep it under control (see link to our antiaging wellness physician). we treat a lot of early lipdema, so long term RF treatments like venus legacy and forma along with trusculpt FLEX will really help you.  please see an expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Bernard Salameh, MD, FACS · Answer

The best treatment would be liposuction. It would be best to choose a surgeon who does a high volume of lipedema liposuction due to the extreme necessity for expertise, especially in areas such as knees, calves, and ankles. In most cases, we prefer Power Assisted Liposuction using tumescent anesthesia. 
Make sure also that your surgeon is double-board-certified. I hope this helps.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I have not seen any evidence that compression treatment is effective for lipedema like it is for lymphedema.
Generally Liposuction does not cause lymph channel injury.
Debulking  and size reduction can generally be achieved but the aesthetic results don’t always look ideal  from liposuction. 
Maintaining steady stable weight with the minimum fluctuations is key for not letting this get worse.
Best, 
Mats Hagstrom MD

I have just been diagnosed with stage 1 moving into stage 2 lipoedema. What are my lipo options? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: In most cases, we prefer Power Assisted Liposuction using tumescent anesthesia.

Answer: In most cases, we prefer Power Assisted Liposuction using tumescent anesthesia.

Answer: Treatment options.

Answer: Treatment options.

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.

I have just been diagnosed with stage 1 moving into stage 2 lipoedema. What are my lipo options? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: In most cases, we prefer Power Assisted Liposuction using tumescent anesthesia.

Answer: In most cases, we prefer Power Assisted Liposuction using tumescent anesthesia.

Answer: Treatment options.

Answer: Treatment options.

Browse related questions

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.