Symptoms of Lipedema: How to Recognise Them

Do you want to know what lipedema is and what its symptoms are? Contrary to what is generally assumed, this condition has nothing to do with obesity or being overweight — and if it is not treated properly, the consequences can be serious.

What is lipedema?

Lipedema is a disease of the adipose tissue, better known as body fat, involving an abnormal, progressive build-up of fat cells in the legs, and sometimes in the arms as well. The result is an increase in volume that comes with a specific set of symptoms.

It is often referred to as “elephant leg syndrome”, because the legs are the most commonly affected area, from the ankles up to the hips. As mentioned, it can also appear in the arms.

Although it affects almost exclusively women, several studies suggest that men can be affected too. Lipedema is frequently mistaken for other conditions, obesity above all, which is why it matters to be seen by someone who deals with it regularly the moment you suspect it.

How do I know whether I have lipedema?

Women with lipedema notice an uneven distribution of fat in the legs, and sometimes in the arms. These are the most common signs:

It affects the lower half of the body

It usually presents as an excessive build-up of fat from the top of the hip bones downwards, while the upper body stays slim. If the upper body looks proportionally heavy too, lipedema is less likely — although the arms can also be affected.

Ankles and feet are spared

The feet do not accumulate fat the way they would with ordinary weight gain, although they can swell secondarily. You will often see a collar of fat sitting just above the ankles, and deposits just below the knee.

The fat is painful

Unlike ordinary fat, lipedema tissue is very sensitive to pressure and bruises easily. The deposits can hurt for no apparent reason, and the skin loses elasticity.

What should I do if I have these symptoms?

There are conservative measures, and there is surgery, and both can reduce the discomfort. But the definitive treatment is to remove the diseased fat cells, and the most advanced and most tissue-sparing technique available for that is WAL liposuction. It should only be performed by surgeons with extensive experience in it.

Other approaches that reduce symptoms and relieve pain include lymphatic compression garments and regular exercise in water. They help, but they are not as effective as surgery.

Lipedema specialist in Málaga

Lipedema is best managed by several specialists working together: plastic and reconstructive surgery, and physiotherapy to restore movement in the legs and joints once the lipedema has been treated. Aesthetic medicine can also contribute treatments that improve circulation.

At our clinic in Málaga, Dr. María Lourdes Yagües makes the diagnosis personally. If several of the signs above sound like you, book an assessment. Consultations are available in English.