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.