Lipoedema is a condition that leads to extra fat and fluid being retained in the lower section of the body. That includes the calves, thighs, and buttocks. In some cases, patients can develop this adipose tissue disorder in the upper arms, but lipoedema rarely affects the feet or hands.

Lipoedema presents in different stages, also known as levels of progression. Those with an advanced stage of lipoedema, have the classic “column leg” look & cuffing. Lipoedema is associated with pain, easy bruising, and a mass of nodular fat.

Lipoedema treatment with liposuction
Liposuction surgery is the only available technique to correct and remove the abnormal adipose tissue of lipoedema. Tumescent liposuction is a surgical treatment that involves the application of local (tumescent) anaesthesia, and subsequent removal of adipose tissue through small cannulae and enables liposuction to be undertaken without general anaesthesia. One end of the cannula is connected to a vacuum device, and the other end is inserted through a small incision of the skin and removes fat via aspiration.

Multiple treatments with liposuction may be needed to help relieve symptoms and improve the condition long term.