Lipoedema is a condition that affects the adipose (connective fat) tissue in the body. It causes significant amounts of fat to develop in some areas more than others, commonly the thighs and other parts of the legs. The condition almost exclusively affects women, occurring in approximately 1 in 11 women in Australia.
Lipoedema
People who have the condition might worry about the appearance of lipoedema, as well as physical symptoms of pain and discomfort. In these cases, various treatment methods may be pursued, under the guidance of a trusted plastic surgeon such as Dr Peter Laniewski. Some patients may be candidates for liposuction to remove excess fat, according to their concerns and body shape.
Symptoms of Lipoedema
Lipoedema is a condition that causes excess fat and swelling. The fat accumulation is usually symmetrical, although it is also usually disproportionate to the rest of the body. This means the fat tends to accumulate more in certain areas than others, even though both sides of the body appear balanced. For example, it typically affects the legs, or sometimes the arms, while the rest of the body remains unaffected.
This excess fat can come along with other symptoms, including:
- A swollen or heavy feeling in the affected areas
- Symmetrical swelling on the legs
- A dimpled texture in the affected areas
- Sensitivity, pain, or discomfort
- Soft, fragile skin that bruises easily
- Difficulty walking, exercising, or doing daily tasks
- Varicose veins or spider veins on the legs
Symptoms may present differently in different people. Therefore, to confirm whether you have the condition, you will need to be assessed by a medical professional. Then, you may have the option to seek treatment from a skilled plastic surgeon such as Dr Peter Laniewski.
Causes and diagnosis
Although the causes are not fully understood, the condition may be influenced by genetics. The development of lipoedema is also associated with changes in hormones, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. It is less likely for men to develop the condition, although it can occur.
There are several stages of lipoedema:
- Stage 1: The skin appears mostly normal, with small nodules of adipose fat tissue
- Stage 2: Adipose tissue causes an uneven skin surface
- Stage 3: Large areas of adipose fat are visible and can impact mobility
- Stage 4: Large adipose fat on the legs and arms, with the presence of both lipoedema and lymphoedema
If the condition progresses, it can cause damage to the lymphatic system, which in turn can lead to lymphoedema. Lipoedema can often be misdiagnosed as lymphoedema, so it is important to seek a diagnosis from a qualified practitioner and seek appropriate treatment. Dr Laniewski is able to assess your condition and advise the most suitable treatment for your particular condition.
Lipoedema treatment
There are several strategies, both surgical and non-surgical, to treat and manage lipoedema. What works for you may be different from what works for someone else; therefore, always discuss your options with a licenced medical professional before treatment. When assessing your condition, Dr Laniewski may ask you about your medical history, symptoms, and sensitivity in the affected areas.
Management strategies include:
- Avoiding tight, uncomfortable clothing
- Maintaining good general health, including a balanced diet
- Keeping within a healthy weight range
- Exercising regularly to improve circulation
- Therapeutic massage
- Liposuction procedures
Trying non-invasive methods of lipoedema reduction will be the first step, as surgery may not help if underlying issues are present. Working to be generally healthy and at a stable weight can help reduce symptoms, improve circulation, and encourage good mobility. Beyond this, if symptoms are persistent, you may need to seek a surgical treatment method such as liposuction.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a procedure for targeted fat reduction. This means people with lipoedema can potentially treat their symptoms by undergoing liposuction to remove the excess fat tissue in their affected areas.
The procedure does not help overall weight loss but removes fat from specific regions of the body through tiny incisions. Your surgeon, Dr Laniewski, makes these small incisions and carefully inserts surgical instruments to break up the fat tissue. This helps aid the extraction process. The fat is then suctioned from the body, with care to not damage the lymphatic channels and aid the subsequent recovery.
Recovery from lipoedema treatment
If you undergo a liposuction procedure for lipoedema, there will be a recovery period in which you need to rest. You will also need to wear compression garments to help reduce the swelling and help your body settle into the new shape.
You will likely have some discomfort during recovery, but this can be helped by following Dr Laniewski’s instructions and resuming light activity when you feel ready. You can start with gently walking around the house, slowly increasing your activity as your recovery progresses. You may also be advised to take pain medication, avoid smoking, stay hydrated, and take care of your incision sites.
Risks are also an aspect of recovery that every patient should consider. Although liposuction is considered less extensive than other invasive procedures, it is still a surgery with potential complications. These can include scarring, infection, unevenness, asymmetry, bleeding, and lymphatic injury. Make sure you attend all follow-up appointments and advise Dr Laniewski of any concerns should they arise.
Your consultation with Dr Laniewski
Your lipoedema treatment begins with a consultation. Consultations are a good way to gain information about your treatment options and what expectations are realistic. Dr Laniewski will assess your condition, paying attention to your particular concerns, including any discomfort, mobility issues, and swelling. He may ask you about your medical past, any medications, past treatments, and other factors to ensure all relevant factors are accounted for. Then we will develop a treatment plan that targets your lipoedema appropriately.
If you are looking for a lipoedema treatment, seeking advice from an experienced practitioner is important. With experience treating a range of conditions, Dr Laniewski can advise you on which approach may work for you, how to prepare, and what outcomes you may expect. You are welcome to book an appointment to discuss your condition and pursue lipoedema treatment.