Lipedema is a progressive medical condition characterized by the accumulation of abnormal fat. The initial symptoms are quite mild, but over time, they worsen and eventually can become debilitating. People with lipedema have a disproportionate body shape. Usually, their lower bodies are larger than their upper bodies. They can experience pain in their limbs as well as mobility issues. There is no cure for lipedema, but there are treatments available, including conservative options and surgery.

What Are the Signs of Lipedema?

Lipedema produces many signs and symptoms that eventually become very noticeable. At first, though, the signs are very subtle. In its early stages, it's easy to mistake lipedema for other conditions like obesity. As the disease progresses, though, the symptoms become more obvious and distinctive.

The signs of lipedema include:

  • Having a larger lower body than the upper body (often by several sizes)

  • The upper arms may be affected with lobules of fat.

  • The affected areas can feel painful or tender to the touch.

  • The affected areas have an unusual texture. At first, they may have a texture similar to grains, sand, or rice. Eventually, nodules that feel like walnuts or plums appear, along with large hanging lobules of fat.

  • Fat that no level of diet and exercise can reduce.

  • Symmetrical swelling on both sides of the body

  • Column-like legs with minimal definition around the calves and ankles

  • Skin with a spongy and cool feel in the affected areas.

  • Easy bruising in affected areas

Also Read - Is There a Test for Lipedema, or Do Doctors Rely on Lipedema Symptoms to Give a Diagnosis?

Who Suffers with Lipedema?

Virtually all lipedema sufferers are female. Experts believe up to 11% of women in the world have this condition. Some men are sufferers but there are hormonal issues at play in such cases.

The cause of lipedema is uncertain. Experts currently don't know precisely what triggers the condition in sufferers. However, based on the fact that almost all sufferers are female, it's likely the cause is hormone-related. Also, evidence shows that lipedema symptoms first appear at a time of hormonal change. Often, this will be during puberty. For some sufferers, though, symptoms may begin during pregnancy or even menopause. Hormonal shifts also cause worsening of the condition.  Lipedema may have genetic links, too. If a close relative has lipedema, there's a higher chance you'll have it as well.

Are Lymphedema and Lipedema the Same Thing?

Many people believe lipedema and lymphedema are the same condition. However, that is not the case. Even some medical professionals confuse the two conditions. Yet, while they have similarities, the two conditions are very different.

Lymphedema is a lymphatic system disorder causing swelling due to dysfunctional lymph fluid flow. Lipedema, on the other hand, involves fat, not lymphatics. Its characteristic feature is abnormal fat accumulation.

Nevertheless, the symptoms of both conditions can be similar. Both involve swelling, self-esteem issues, mobility problems and a disproportionate appearance. Lymphedema tends to be one-sided, though, while lipedema is symmetrical. Also, lymphedema is not usually painful, whereas lipedema often is.

It's worth noting that lymphedema and lipedema can occur simultaneously. Over time, lipedema may progress and damage the lymphatic system. As a result, secondary lymphedema can develop, which causes more complex problems for sufferers.

Are Lipedema and Obesity the Same Thing?

Many people think lipedema and obesity are the same thing, but they aren't. Regular fat seen in obesity and lipedema fat have a different composition, with lipedema fat being more fibrous and nodular. Obesity responds to dietary changes and exercise. Lipedema fat does not. Once lipedema fat has accumulated it cannot be eradicated except via surgery.

Unfortunately, a surprising number of medical professionals tell lipedema sufferers that they are obese.  Their patients then go on to spend years trying to shed pounds and failing. Not only does that have a significant impact on sufferers' mental health, but it also delays a correct diagnosis. The longer it takes to get a diagnosis, the longer it takes to receive treatment. Since early treatment achieves better outcomes, this is concerning.

Also Read - Lipedema Fat Vs. Regular Fat – Do I Have a Medical Condition?

What Are the Treatments for Lipedema?

There are both conservative and surgical treatments for lipedema. The conservative options include:

  • Making healthy dietary changes and getting more exercise

  • Undergoing MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) massages on a regular basis

  • Wearing compression garments

These treatments address the symptoms of lipedema and can bring temporary relief. Unfortunately, though, they won't halt progression of the condition. Sufferers must also commit to having these treatments on an ongoing long-term basis to continue experiencing any relief.

The other option is to undergo surgery for lipedema. That involves undergoing liposuction of the affected areas. Liposuction addresses the diseased fat and slows the progression greatly. Surgery is a long-lasting option that improves patients' quality of life by working to reduce pain and increase mobility. Surgery also restores a more proportionate body shape which boosts sufferers' self-esteem. Nevertheless, finding a skilled and experienced surgeon is key if you want to have lipedema liposuction.

Dr. Su at ArtLipo is a top choice of lipedema surgeon in Tampa, Florida. Get in touch to find out more and arrange a consultation.