Let’s Talk Lipoedema: 8 Must-know Facts

1. It looks like obesity - but isn’t

Lipoedema can often be mistaken for obesity because it causes the legs and arms to take on a thick, column-shaped appearance.

However, this chronic condition is not caused by lack of self-control or laziness and it is not your fault. Sufferers usually find that they are unable to lose weight from their legs and bottom, no matter how hard they try.

2. Lipoedema is commonly misdiagnosed as lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a condition that causes uncomfortable swelling of limbs, and a condition that lipoedema sufferers are commonly misdiagnosed with. It is possible to have both conditions; however, it’s crucial to get an accurate diagnosis as lymphoedema treatments won’t help with lipoedema symptoms.

So, what is lipoedema? It's a loose connective tissue disorder that is widely under-recognised and misdiagnosed. Both conditions cause swelling of the legs; however, lymphoedema can also cause swelling of the fingers, feet and toes (whereas lipoedema patients often have disproportionately skinny feet). If you press a finger into an area of lymphoedema, it will usually dent - this doesn’t happen with lipoedema.

3. It is shockingly common in females

Unlike lymphoedema, which affects both males and females, lipoedema is almost exclusively a female condition. In fact, recent research has found that 10% of all females (of European descent as well as other populations) are affected by it. Yet, only recently been widely recognised by doctors as a distinct condition.

4. Lipoedema affects normal-weight individuals, too

People usually associate fat with being overweight, and although lipoedema can be worsened by carrying excess weight, many sufferers are within a normal weight range.

For many of these women, it can feel like they have two bodies. Their upper body, chest and abdomen are slim, but their lower half is out of proportion, making it difficult to find clothes that fit.

5. Diet & exercise won’t get rid of it

Lipoedema sufferers know how disheartening it is to hear their doctor recommend diet and exercise. Lipoedema is not typical weight gain and won’t go away with diet and exercise. Healthy lifestyle changes can help ease discomfort, but they will not get rid of the fat cells.

6. It causes chronic pain & bruising

Classic symptoms are not only thick legs and irreversible weight gain, but sufferers also have to deal with constant leg pain and easy bruising in the affected areas. The pain can become chronic and severe, which is why it’s especially important to receive an accurate diagnosis and recommended treatment beyond diet and exercise.

7. The cause is unknown

Although it is known that the effects of lipoedema are caused by an abnormal build-up of fat cells, and despite doctors first recognising the condition in the 1940’s - experts still do not know what causes it.

The onset of lipoedema appears to be related to hormonal changes, as many women develop it during puberty, pregnancy or the menopause. The condition also seems to run in families, suggesting a genetic connection.

8. Liposuction is the most effective & long-lasting lipoedema treatment

When it comes to treating lipoedema, there are very little options that truly make a difference. Low-impact exercise and compression garments may help reduce swelling and discomfort, but they won’t get rid of fat cells.

Liposuction is recommended by the Society for Phlebology and the Royal Society of Medicine as the most effective way to get rid of the fat cells that cause this condition.

With the pioneering microlipo treatment, painful fat cells are gently removed to achieve effective and long-lasting improvement. After years of being burdened by heavy legs, many patients feel they have been given a new lease of life and have renewed self-confidence.

If you want to read more, the experts at Consulting Room really know what they're talking about and have put together lose weight, fat and Liposuction FAQs just for you.

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Dr Prerner Mittal and the Hunar Clinic offers unparalleled service with real results. Using cutting-edge technologies and the finest medical-grade products, every treatment is customised to your specific needs to help reach your goals quickly and effectively.

Dr Mittal has years of experience and expertise in a range of procedures, and you can be assured that you are in safe hands when under her care. She is a Renowned physician specialising in practical dermatology and facial & body aesthetics.

Give Hunar Clinic a call on 0175 388 2239 or visit hunarclinic.co.uk for more information.