With Lipedema, daily activities can be uncomfortable and difficult, particularly when the condition progresses. If you are dealing with lipedema, we offer treatments that can help ease these symptoms and improve your overall comfort. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, our approach focuses on reducing excess fat through surgical techniques while advising on additional ways to improve your symptoms. With the right treatment, you can experience noticeable relief and enhanced mobility.
What Is Lipedema and How Is It Diagnosed?
Lipedema is a chronic condition marked by the disproportionate accumulation of fat, primarily in the legs, arms, and buttocks. This fat buildup often causes sensitivity to touch, making even light pressure uncomfortable. In addition to tenderness, swelling tends to worsen after prolonged standing or sitting, adding to daily physical challenges. A proper lipedema diagnosis relies on a clinical evaluation from a trained provider who recognizes its distinct characteristics. Early diagnosis allows patients to address symptoms before the condition progresses.
What Causes Lipedema?
The exact cause of lipedema is not fully understood, but it is believed to have a genetic and hormonal component. Many patients notice symptoms beginning or worsening during times of hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. While diet and exercise do not directly cause lipedema, the condition can progress without proper weight management or a focus on a healthy lifestyle.
Who Is Affected By Lipedema?
Lipedema primarily affects women, though rare cases of lipedema in male patients have been recorded. It often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary link. Symptoms typically appear during puberty or other hormonal shifts, leading to a gradual accumulation of fat in the arms, legs, and lower body that may be disproportionate to the rest of the body.
Stages of Lipedema
Stage One
In the early stage of lipedema, the skin appears smooth, but fat deposits begin to form symmetrically in the arms, legs, and lower body. While the tissue feels soft, it may already be tender to the touch with easier bruising. Swelling can occur, especially after prolonged standing or activity, but often resolves with rest.
Stage Two
At this stage, the skin takes on an uneven or nodular texture as fat deposits become more pronounced. Areas of the body affected by lipedema may feel firmer, and sensitivity to touch increases. Swelling becomes more persistent and less likely to subside with elevation or rest.
Stage Three
In the third stage, larger fat deposits develop, leading to visible skin folds and irregularities. The skin may harden, and mobility can become limited as the fat buildup continues to increase in size and density. Discomfort and swelling are often more severe and constant during this phase.
Stage Four
This advanced stage, also called Lipolymphedema, combines lipedema with lymphedema, resulting in significant swelling due to fluid retention. The skin becomes thickened and may feel hard or fibrotic, with prominent folds and bulges. Mobility is often severely impacted, and managing these symptoms of lipedema requires treatment to address both fat accumulation and fluid buildup.
Treatment Options for Lipedema
Surgical Management of Lipedema
For advanced cases, lipedema surgery can help address fat buildup and reduce discomfort. Surgical management typically involves targeted removal of the diseased fat tissue in affected areas, focusing on restoring mobility and easing tenderness. This approach can also alleviate pressure on joints caused by disproportionate fat accumulation. By addressing both the physical discomfort and mobility issues associated with lipedema, surgery provides a more effective solution than non-invasive options.
Liposuction
Liposuction is the type of surgery used to remove abnormal fat deposits while preserving surrounding tissues. During liposuction, the fat is suctioned out using a cannula. Multiple sessions may be needed to treat all affected areas, depending on the severity of the condition.
Non-Surgical Management
- Diet and Exercise: While diet and exercise cannot eliminate lipedema fat, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms. Anti-inflammatory diets and low-impact activities like swimming or walking may reduce swelling and improve overall mobility.
- Compression Therapy: Compression garments apply consistent pressure to affected areas, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort. This therapy can improve circulation, minimize fluid buildup, and provide support for daily activities.
- Supplements: Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and natural anti-inflammatories, may help reduce inflammation and swelling. Consulting a healthcare professional is the best way to make sure supplements are used safely alongside other treatments.
What to Expect From Your Liposuction for Lipedema
Before Your Treatment
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports your body’s healing process and helps prepare you for surgery.
- Avoid Blood Thinners: Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, or supplements such as fish oil and vitamin E can increase bleeding; consult your provider about what to stop or adjust.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Loose, easy-to-remove clothing will make the day of surgery more comfortable.
- Plan for Recovery: Arrange for someone to drive you home and help you with basic tasks during the initial recovery period.
- Follow Nutrition Guidelines: Focus on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods to help your body recover more effectively after surgery.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both can impact healing and recovery, so it’s best to stop several weeks before your procedure.
Our Liposuction Technique: Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is a preferred technique for lipedema due to its safety and precision. The process involves injecting a specialized fluid into the treatment area which contains a mix of saline, a local anesthetic like lidocaine to numb the area, and epinephrine to minimize bleeding by constricting blood vessels. This solution allows for more accurate fat removal while reducing trauma to surrounding tissues. Tumescent liposuction helps improve patient comfort and minimizes recovery time.
Preserving Lymphatic Flow During Liposuction
When performing lipedema treatment, we are careful to preserve the delicate lymphatic system. With our liposuction techniques, we remove excess fat while protecting lymphatic vessels. Special care is taken to avoid damaging these pathways, as they are important for fluid drainage and reduced swelling.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care After Liposuction for Lipedema
Recovery after liposuction for lipedema involves a combination of rest, compression, and movement to support healing. Patients are typically advised to wear compression garments to minimize swelling, reduce bruising, and help the skin adjust to its new contour. Light movement, such as short walks, is encouraged early in recovery to promote blood flow and reduce the risk of complications. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, although strenuous exercise should be avoided until cleared by your provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lipedema Treatment
Can Lipedema Be Cured?
Lipedema cannot be completely cured, but its symptoms can be managed with proper treatment. By addressing symptoms early, progression can often be slowed for better long-term outcomes.
How Many Liposuction Procedures Will I Need?
The number of procedures depends on the severity and extent of lipedema. Many patients require multiple sessions to achieve effective fat removal, with each procedure typically spaced a few weeks apart to allow for healing. We make sure our treatment plan will be manageable for your body.
How Long Will The Results Last?
Results from liposuction for lipedema are long-lasting, with a reduced likelihood of recurrence for an average of five years. While the treated fat does not return, new fat can develop if lipedema progresses. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following your post-procedure care plan can help prolong the results of lipedema fat reduction surgery.
What Is the Difference Between Lipedema and Lymphedema?
Lipedema and lymphedema are separate conditions with distinct characteristics. Lipedema involves abnormal fat accumulation, usually in the legs, arms, and buttocks, while the hands and feet remain unaffected. Lymphedema occurs when fluid builds up in the tissues due to impaired lymphatic drainage leading to swelling in specific areas, including the hands and feet. Accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure proper treatment for each condition.
Is Lipedema Treatment Covered By Insurance?
Coverage for lipedema treatment, including liposuction, varies depending on the insurance provider and policy. Some insurers consider lipedema treatments medically necessary if the disease is significantly impacting your quality of life. You will need to check with your insurance provider to see whether surgery is covered in your situation.
Are There Any Risks of Liposuction for Lipedema?
Liposuction for lipedema is generally safe, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. These can include bruising, swelling, temporary numbness, and fluid accumulation. Rare complications, such as infection or skin irregularities, can occur but are minimized with proper technique and post-treatment care. Discussing the risks and benefits with your provider ensures you’re fully informed before undergoing treatment.
Get to Know Your Surgeon: Dr. Tarola
Dr. Nicholas Tarola is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, breasts, and body. He completed his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, followed by general surgery training at Thomas Jefferson University and advanced plastic surgery training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. With years of experience and a focus on innovative surgical techniques, Dr. Tarola is dedicated to providing precise, effective treatments for each patient.
Patient Testimonial
“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.”
Regain Mobility, Comfort, and Aesthetics With Lipedema Treatments
Lipedema can cause discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility, but effective lipedema treatment can help address these symptoms and improve your quality of life. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, we use proven techniques like liposuction to reduce fat accumulation and ease physical challenges caused by lipedema. To learn more or schedule your consultation, call (615) 624-8914 or contact us through our online form today.
