Is a trouble of a chronic nature affecting the functioning and distribution of fatty tissue located under the skin of the limbs. It affects almost exclusively women.
- The distribution problem is the disproportion between fat in these two regions : the trunk and the limbs. The trunk is disproportionately slender. Different names are given depending on if the distribution of this excessive fat reaches the knees or the ankles. In cases of true lipedema, the feet and hands are always free and appear very delicate.
- This trouble in functioning consists in an increased vessel permeability and fragility. Stronger edemas and hematomas, the latter due to small injuries, occur in the course of the day. The origin of sensitivity to pain in the edematous region is still unclear but closely related to edema, and a decrease in edema clearly lessens the pain.
Another similarly looking form of this fat distribution trouble is lipohypertrophy. Contrary to lipedema, lipohypertrophy is never painful, and the disposition for edema is considerably lower.
If lipedema has been existing for years, the lymph vessel system can become strained and damaged. The situation evolves from lipedema to lipolymphedema. Tissue which was once extremely soft becomes increasingly hard and all complications of a lymphedema can occur. (see lymphedema)
Therapy
The therapy of lipedema is basically conservative. The condition is stabilized through consistent Manual Lymph Drainage treatments (Dr. Vodder technique), skin care (Celuvase) and wearing compression stockings. It is not really possible to influence the appearance through diet, even if fat cells are involved. If one consumes too many calories, the excess fat is stored evenly on the body, and also overall if one loses weight. In cases of maldistribution of fat, about 80% of all calories consumed will be stored in the afflicted area, although weight loss will be felt in 80% in the non-afflicted areas. Disproportion becomes thus more apparent. This means that an existing excess deposit in fat is usually not influenced by dieting.
If the suffering or psychological strain is too great, a cosmetic liposuction performed by a specialist can bring successful results.
In conclusion, I would like to cite once more Prof. Weissleder who shared the following opinion in his book : « Lipedema does not mean overweight ! But lipedema and overweight lead to lymphedema ! »