What is lipedema?
Disclaimer: Please note that Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center does not currently offer lipedema treatments at this time. This post is provided for educational purposes to help our patients understand the various options available. If you are looking for body rejuvenation, we invite you to explore our available services, including Mommy Makeovers, Smart Lipo or Liposuction.
Lipedema is a disorder in which an abnormal amount of fat builds up on both sides of the lower body. The amount of fat is disproportionate to the rest of the body. Lipedema usually involves the legs, buttocks, or hips, but doesn’t affect the feet. Some people may also develop lipedema in the upper arms. The legs feel heavy and tend to bruise easily. There is tenderness or pain when pressure is applied to affected areas. Eventually, a person’s mobility may be affected.
The condition most often occurs in women; men are rarely affected. Hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause may trigger or worsen lipedema. Many women feel frustrated because the excess fat doesn’t respond to diet or exercise. To make matters worse, lipedema is often misdiagnosed as simple obesity or lymphedema.
What treatment is available?
The most effective treatment is lipedema tumescent liposuction, a surgical procedure that permanently removes lipedema fat cells in treated areas. This advanced technique differs from traditional liposuction since it uses a specialized fluid to minimize bleeding, reduce pain, and allow for precise fat removal. Microcannulas are used, so incisions are smaller and recovery is faster. Once these fat cells are removed, they will not grow back in the treated area. Lipedema tumescent liposuction can be safely used in almost all areas of the body.
Other Treatments That Enhance Lipedema Tumescent Liposuction Results
Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center offers two additional treatments patients may opt for to enhance the results of a tumescent liposuction. Exilis® therapy and Sofwave™ are both non-invasive skin tightening procedures that target loose skin that has lost elasticity, reduce cellulite, and stimulate the production of collagen.
- Exilis – Uses radiofrequency heat energy to simultaneously tighten skin while shrinking fat cells. Exilis is an excellent option for patients who have moderate skin laxity issues.
- Sofwave – Works by delivering advanced ultrasound technology deep into the skin’s dermal layers to smooth and firm the skin. Sofwave is safe for all skin types and can be used on various parts of the body.