Lipedema Treatment

Understanding Lipedema: A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management

Living with lipedema can cause both emotional and physical challenges. The condition leads to swelling in areas such as the legs, arms, and buttocks, which can be emotionally and physically distressing. Those affected often experience low self-esteem and feelings of rejection due to their physical state.

Unlike obesity, the fat accumulated in lipedema is resistant to most diets and exercises. While it can be managed through surgery, there is no cure for this condition.

What is Lipedema?

Lipedema is characterized by the accumulation of fat, leading to disproportion and asymmetry in the lower extremities and sometimes the arms. This condition primarily affects women, with an estimated one in nine women in the United States experiencing it. Although rare, men can also be affected.

Common Symptoms:

1. Pain and Tenderness: Affected areas can be very painful and sensitive to touch.
2. Disproportionate Fat Accumulation: Excess fat accumulates asymmetrically in the legs, arms, buttocks, and occasionally the hands and feet.
3. Bruise-Prone Skin: Due to fragile blood vessels, bruises can appear easily.
4. Swelling: Prolonged standing or sitting can worsen swelling, which tends to improve with elevation and rest.

Treatment Options

While diet, supplements, and exercise can help alleviate pain and some symptoms, they do not reduce the accumulated fat. The most effective holistic treatment for lipedema is liposuction. This surgery not only reduces fat but also improves mobility, appearance, and the patient’s overall quality of life.

Recovery from this surgery varies among patients but typically includes bruising, some pain, and initial inflammation. Post-surgery, patients often experience significant improvements in their quality of life, mood, and self-confidence.

Diagnosis and Professional Guidance

Obtaining a medical diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management. At Tarola Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tarola performs liposuction for individuals with lipedema. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tarola by calling 615.713.1695 or emailing info@tarolaplasticsurgery.com.

After I began my weight loss journey and losing 30 pounds, I noticed that my legs were actually looking worse. I couldn’t understand why after all the hard work of eating healthier and exercising this was happening. I went to my doctor and was diagnosed with Lipedema. I had not even heard of this disease before. This started me down a long road of research that led to overwhelming emotions of despair and hopelessness. If there was no cure and the disease would only progress, then what could I possibly do to help myself. Through my research I found the only way to treat the diseased tissue was to surgically remove it with liposuction. I decided to have a consultation with Dr Tarola. From the moment I walked in the office, everyone was very welcoming and professional. Dr. Tarola took his time and actually listened to my fears and concerns. He not only gave me guidance, but more importantly he gave me hope. For once, I felt the shame of my body and my insecurities lose its grip on my life. I felt empowered that although surgery was not a complete cure, it was a step in gaining control over this disease. The surgery has given me a new excitement to face this disease with strength and confidence that I didn’t think was possible. I am forever grateful to Dr. Tarola and his team for helping me find love and happiness again with my body and the reminder that we are more than what a diagnosis says we are.