What is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a severely underdiagnosed and often misdiagnosed adipose tissue
disease. It can become debilitating as it progresses.This tissue is composedÂ
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of fibrous bands, forming hard nodules beneath the skin.
FAQ
Lipedema
Who Does it Affect
What Does is Affect?
Women are mainly affected and it’s thought to be a genetic disease.
It begins in the extremities, including legs, hips, buttocks and in some women, it can affect the abdomen and arms.  Lipedema is bilaterally distributed and stops at the feet Â
(hands and feet are not affected).Â
What is it Mistaken For?
Can Lifestyle Changes help?
It’s often misdiagnosed as obesity and lymphedema.
Lipedema is unresponsive to changes in diet and exercise.
Surgery is the only treatment to completely remove it. There are several interventions to help manage symptoms in preparation for surgery.
How is it Treated
Hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, peri-menopause and menopause typically fuel the progression. Later stages patients often experience mobility challenges, Â
impacting their quality of life.
How Does it Progress
Spread The Word
Early diagnosis means less complications. Â
Many medical providers aren’t knowledgable .