Lipoedema is a chronic condition of abnormal fat tissue buildup, most commonly in the lower part of the body. The fat tissue in the body is distributed in an irregular way beneath the skin and builds up, usually beginning at the buttocks and moving to the thighs down to the ankles. Lipoedema occasionally occurs in the hips and upper arms too, but it does not occur in the hands or feet.
People with lipoedema often have a BMI greater than 35, so it is often confused with obesity, as well as lymphedema, but each of these conditions is different. There are five types of lipoedema that are classified by where in the body the lipoedema symptoms present. It is possible to have more than one type as this indicates you have more areas affected by lipoedema. This condition may be inherited as it often runs in the family.
Those assigned female at birth, family history of lipoedema, and a BMI greater than 35 are at an increased risk for lipoedema. If you have any of the risk factors, along with symptoms like fat building up and mild to severe pain in lower extremities, heavy legs, skin bruises, swelling, and excess fatigue, it is important to check with a health care professional as they may be able to give a diagnosis and help you treat and manage lipoedema, as well as provide resources such as how to find support groups.
There is no cure for lipoedema, but there is a treatment that can help with pain and inflammation. Your healthcare professional may have you begin with simple and non-invasive treatments. If more complex treatment is necessary, you may be advised on more invasive treatments.
Simple treatments for lipoedema may include the following: an anti-inflammatory diet, exercise (in the form of biking, swimming, and walking), heart-healthy diet, compression stockings, medications/supplements for inflammation and swelling, antioxidant herbals, and skin moisturizers.
Non-invasive treatments for lipoedema may include the following: pneumatic compression devices for your legs, lymphatic drainage massages, or complex decongestion therapy which includes a compression wrap after a massage.
One invasive treatment for lipoedema is a procedure called liposuction. This is a type of cosmetic surgery that removes unwanted fat that does not respond to diet or exercise. If you have tried less invasive treatments and they have been ineffective, your healthcare provider may suggest this procedure. There are risks involved, and certain health conditions may prevent this from being an option, so it is important to follow the advice of your healthcare professional.
Another invasive treatment is bariatric surgery. This is a weight loss surgery for someone with lipoedema and a BMI greater than 35. This surgery will modify your digestive system to help regulate caloric intake and absorption. With any invasive procedure, you will need several weeks to recover and avoid strenuous activities for up to six weeks.
Complications from these invasive procedures may include swelling, bleeding, infection, and blood clots. It is important to monitor for complications. As with all medications and treatments, it is important to follow the instructions of your healthcare provider and report any concerns that you may have.
Lipoedema is a chronic condition that often worsens over time. Early diagnosis and treatment may help avoid further complications, but it can be difficult to manage. Counselling, physical therapy, and pain management may be beneficial in helping to manage this condition. It can be difficult to live with lipoedema as the condition may limit your ability to move and may affect your quality of life.
Finding a support group and talking about your condition with others who have lipoedema is important to help with feelings of loneliness and depression. A trusted healthcare professional can help direct and advise you on the necessary steps to managing your life with lipoedema.