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  • Lipoedema is a disease characterised by an abnormal, circumscribed accumulation of subcutaneous fat, mainly in the lower extremities, in combination with oedema. This results in an obvious disproportion between the upper and lower half of the body, as well as pain (Figure 1). Although lipoedema was first described in 1940 by Allen and Hines in the United States of America, the discussion still continues today as to whether this disease really is an entity, with some clinicians even doubting that it exists. In the 1940s it was described as a symmetrical subcutaneous deposition of fat in the buttocks and lower legs, together with an accumulation of fluid that begins almost imperceptibly, progressing gradually. Lipoedema was often associated with weight gain and accentuated by orthostatic activity.

  • The challenges of providing effective treatment for patients with lymphoedema-related disorders have never been more prominent. Conservative management of lymphoedema remains of central importance, however, there is increasing evidence that other therapies, such as surgical approaches, may have an important part to play in the arena of treatment. The findings from these proceedings highlight the potential role that surgical approaches, including liposuction, can have in transforming the lives of patients. Conservative approaches, while effective in many patients, do not provide a solution for some of the complex issues patients face, nor do they always provide sustained results even after periods of expensive, intensive treatment. Relatively little attention has been placed on the impact that lymphatic conditions have on the lives of patients and their families. However, research is beginning to show that patients’ health-related quality of life is significantly affected and that previously dismissed symptoms, such as pain, are a feature of the condition. Lymphoedema and lipoedema are both likely to have a deleterious effect on the body image of patients who live day-to-day with distorted limbs. Treatments such as liposuction have the potential to reverse some of the crippling effects of these disorders on the psychosocial health of patients. The indications from these proceedings are that this is an important and encouraging area of practice that must be considered as part of the armoury of treatment. Liposuction has often been viewed negatively by the lymphoedema community, who have been sceptical about its value and concerned for its safety. This document shows that when it is used appropriately, by well trained surgeons, it can be very effective. In fact, the area of liposuction now has a growing evidence base that rivals many of the other conservative areas of lymphoedema management. Management of lymphatic conditions demands that the professional groups begin to work together in a more collaborative way in order to develop treatments that really address the growing number of patients with these types of conditions.

  • Dear Patient, although much has been published about lipoedema during the past decade, this disease continues to be relatively unknown; it is still overlooked and/or mistaken for obesity (overweight) or lymphoedema by many doctors. As a result, the information and therapy instructions given to afflicted individuals is often either incorrect or only partially covers the aspects of this disease. This brochure was designed to help you learn more about lipoedema and to enable you to evaluate and get the most benefit from available therapeutic options. All important information is presented concisely in the form of questions and answers. Please keep in mind that many aspects of this disease remain unclear to date. As with most other diseases (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, varicosis, rheumatism, etc.), the symptoms and discomforts are fairly well known, but the underlying causes are not. However, our insights have become much more extensive in the past few years. Since crucial progress has been made in recent years especially with regard to the treatment of lipoedema, there are some very effective measures now available that have a positive impact on all aspects of this chronic disease. This allows you to live a largely „normal“ life without major limitations, at a quality level that until recently was unthinkable. Meanwhile, a wealth of information has become accessible through the internet, where you can get help from specialised doctors, physiotherapists, and other patients afflicted by this disease. There is no longer reason for despair. With the compliments of BSN-JOBST® GmbH

Last update from database: 4/12/25, 7:47 AM (UTC)

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