Do You Have Lipoedema?
If you are a woman with swollen legs or arms that are out of proportion with the rest of your body, you may have lipoedema. It’s important to be aware of and understand this common condition, as there are effective solutions to help manage it, reduce symptoms, and change the appearance of your body.
What is Lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a long-term condition that almost exclusively affects women. It is characterised by an uneven buildup and swelling of fat in the legs/hips (and, in some cases, the arms) and it results in distinct changes to the body’s shape. It doesn’t affect the feet or hands.
Lipoedema can cause physical pain and discomfort as well as psycho-emotional effects including embarrassment and a loss of confidence. It can also make it difficult to purchase clothing, as the body’s size is not uniform.
Scientists don’t yet understand exactly what causes lipoedema, but it seems to be strongly associated with the female hormonal changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and/or menopause. Genetics also appear to play a role.
Lipoedema varies in severity and is often present for several years before discomfort arises. Stage 1 is the least severe and features very mild fatty deposits and swelling (there may initially just be fat pockets on the lower knees). Stage 4 is indicated by inflammation, significant discomfort/pain, and “inflated” limbs.
Common Misconceptions About Lipoedema
Misconception #1: Lipoedema is just a weight issue.
While it’s true that overweight people can suffer from lipoedema, being overweight affects the entire body. Lipoedema, on the other hand, presents with peripheral fat on the limbs only – a person with a normal or low BMI can experience lipoedema.
Misconception #2: Lipoedema is the same as cellulite.
Cellulite, like lipoedema, does cause the skin to appear swollen, uneven, and dimpled; it is, however, a purely cosmetic issue and poses no concern in terms of health.
Misconception #3: Lipoedema can be cured with diet and exercise alone.
One of the characteristics that distinguishes lipoedema is that it does not respond to diet or exercise. Losing weight (if needed) overall is a good idea, but the symptoms and signs of lipoedema will remain to at least some extent even after weight loss.
How Lipoedema Differs From Other Conditions
Lipoedema has similar signs and symptoms as certain other conditions and it is often misdiagnosed. It’s important to understand the differences and be diagnosed appropriately, as the ways these are treated/managed are not the same.
- Lymphoedema: This medical condition is caused by a buildup of lymph fluid in the tissues under the skin, usually in an arm or leg (but sometimes in the neck, chest, or abdomen). It arises when the lymphatic system isn’t working properly. It’s usually associated with cancer treatment, trauma, infection, or certain inflammatory disorders.
- Obesity: Obesity is an excessive or abnormal accumulation of fat impacting the entire body and presents a health risk. It is diagnosed when a person’s BMI or Body Mass Index exceeds 30. (25 to 29.9 is considered overweight). In most people, it improves to at least an extent with diet and exercise.
- Cellulite: This occurs when fat collects and pushes against connective tissue (muscles, cartilage, ligaments, tendons) underneath the skin. Most common on the thighs, abdomen, and buttocks, cellulite gives the skin’s surface a lumpy, puckered, or dimpled appearance. It is only of cosmetic concern and has no health implications.
Diagnosing Lipoedema
People with lipoedema may experience the following symptoms:
- Symmetrical swelling on both sides of the body – i.e. both legs and/or both arms.
- Dimpling.
- Pain, tenderness, heaviness, and discomfort in the affected limbs.
- Bruising more easily.
- “Cuffing” at the ankles and/or wrists.
- Fat loss in the limbs is resistant to diet and exercise.
- A family history of lipoedema – especially in mother, grandmother, or sister.
Diagnosis of lipoedema is based on physical examination and evaluation of one’s medical history (including relevant family history). There is no diagnostic test for lymphoedema.
Getting an accurate diagnosis as early as possible is crucial for the correct approach to management – especially as the way we treat lipoedema differs from that for obesity, lymphoedema, and cellulitis.
The Importance of Lipoedema Awareness
We all deserve to enjoy the best quality of life possible – and knowledge is power. By recognising that you have lipoedema and understanding the condition, you can take back control of your body, and access the early diagnosis and management solutions that make all the difference to your health and wellbeing outcomes.
If you suspect you may have lipoedema (or are concerned with suggestive changes in your body), please see your GP or make an appointment with us at Be Sculptured to take that first step to discuss management options.
Think You Have Lipoedema? Book a Consultation With Us.
How to Treat Lipoedema? Liposculpture is a procedure that can partially manage people with lipoedema in terms of reducing swelling and discomfort and changing the shape of the body
Be Sculptured is exclusively a liposculpture clinic in Sydney and The Gold Coast. We provide liposculture for people experiencing mild to moderate lipoedema. To be eligible for liposculpture for lipoedema with us, you must have a BMI (body mass index) of below 35 and Stage 1 or Stage 2 lipoedema.
You will need a GP referral to see us. Our lipoedema liposculpture procedures require day-only hospital admission, no general anaesthetic (sedation is provided instead).
Liposculpture is one of many management options for lipoedema discomfort. Call 0484 898 977or visit our Lipoedema treatment page more information or to book a consultation appointment. You may also request a consultation here or send us an email at [email protected].
