Liposuction has a key part to play in treating lipedema. In fact, it is the gold standard treatment for this condition. Although there are conservative treatments available, these only address the symptoms and not the cause. Liposuction surgery addresses the cause of lipedema which is the diseased fat. Liposuction removes this fat. As a result, it addresses the pain and mobility problems that sufferers experience.

What Are the Traditional Lipedema Treatments?

Usually, doctors suggest that lipedema sufferers try conservative treatments as the first port of call. These treatments are non-surgical and include a range of options. Undergoing manual lymphatic drainage massage and wearing compression garments are conservative treatment staples. Patients should also adopt a healthy lifestyle, eating a healthy diet and doing more exercise.

These traditional conservative treatments can help to relieve the symptoms associated with lipedema. They can help reduce swelling and pain. Unfortunately, though, this relief is only temporary. Conservative treatments cannot eliminate the fat deposits. The condition also continues to progress over time when opting for these treatments.

How Does Liposuction Treat Lipedema?

Liposuction is the gold standard treatment for lipedema. It is a surgical option to treat this abnormal fat condition. While liposuction surgery cannot cure lipedema, it produces long-lasting results.

Surgeons carry out lipedema liposuction with the patient under local anesthetic. They make tiny incisions in the area they are treating. They pass a cannula into the incisions and break up the fat. They then use suction to remove the fat from the body.

Liposuction to treat lipedema is similar to cosmetic liposuction. The equipment and instruments are the same. Nevertheless, the goals are different. Cosmetic liposuction aims to produce slimmer contours and a more attractive silhouette. Lipedema liposuction, on the other hand, targets the diseased fat to reduce pain and improve mobility.

What Are the Benefits of Lipedema Liposuction?

Lipedema liposuction offers a wealth of benefits for patients. These benefits are long-lasting, making it the gold standard treatment for this condition.

Lipedema liposuction helps patients by:

• Reducing pain in the affected limbs.
• Improving limb function by reducing bulk and heaviness making it easier to move freely.
• Reducing or even eliminating the need to use conservative treatments such as compression garments on an ongoing basis.
• Improving psychological and emotional well-being by creating a more proportionate physique. Patients experience better self-esteem and less self-consciousness post-surgery.
• Keeping patients healthier for longer. After liposuction, patients find it easier to exercise and live an active lifestyle. As a result, they are less likely to develop comorbidities like type II diabetes, obesity, and heart problems.

Is Liposuction Suitable for All Lipedema Sufferers?

Some lipedema sufferers worry they may not be a good candidate for liposuction due to the stage of their condition. In fact, people at all stages of lipedema can benefit from liposuction. It is, however, important for sufferers to be aware that they may need multiple procedures. The later the stage, the greater the chance of needing more than one procedure to remove all the diseased fat.

For many lipedema sufferers, liposuction is an ideal solution. Nevertheless, not everyone may be a suitable candidate for the procedure depending on their medical background. For example, if you suffer from a blood clotting disorder or a heart condition, liposuction may be unsuitable for you.

Before having liposuction, you will have a consultation with your surgeon. At this appointment, it’s imperative that you are honest and upfront about any medical conditions you have. Your surgeon must be fully informed to give you the best advice and treat you appropriately. You must also inform your surgeon about any medications or supplements you take. That will ensure they have all the information they require to decide whether surgery is right for your needs.

Is Lipedema Liposuction Safe?

Undergoing any kind of surgery can be worrying. Some lipedema sufferers have concerns that liposuction isn’t safe for them. Of course, any type of surgery comes with some risks. However, it’s crucial to understand that lipedema liposuction is a relatively safe and effective treatment. However, choosing the right surgeon is vital. The surgeon you choose must be highly skilled and experienced in treating lipedema sufferers. Selecting a specialist in the field will ensure you achieve the best possible outcome.

Your surgeon will give you advice and instructions about what to do and avoid after surgery. You must adhere to these carefully. These will involve wearing compression garments as prescribed and avoiding bathing and swimming. You’ll also be told to do regular gentle exercise but avoid rigorous or strenuous workouts. Attending your follow-up appointments couldn’t be more important. Attendance at these will give your surgeon the opportunity to assess your healing and identify any issues quickly. Dr. Su at ArtLipo is an excellent choice of surgeon. He is highly trained in lipedema-specific treatment techniques because he specializes in the field. To find out more, get in touch today.