Lipedema Treatment & Lipedema Surgery

Lipedema is a chronic disorder of the fatty tissue that presents with disproportionate fat accumulation, particularly in the legs, hips and, in some patients, the arms, along with tenderness, pain, swelling and easy bruising.

One of the most common complaints of patients with lipedema is that the disproportionate appearance of the legs persists despite dieting and regular exercise. Yet lipedema is not merely an aesthetic problem; in later stages it can also affect mobility and everyday quality of life.

Lipedema treatment is planned individually according to the stage of the disease, the distribution of the fatty tissue, skin quality and the patient’s complaints. In patients suitable for surgery, liposuction techniques may be used to reduce the fat affected by lipedema and to restore balanced body proportions.

How Is Lipedema Surgery Performed?

The goal of lipedema surgery is not simply to slim the legs. The distribution of fatty tissue is assessed as a whole, including the knee area, the inner and outer thighs, the saddlebag region and, where necessary, other areas.

In Dr. Nihal Üstün’s approach to lipedema surgery, VASER liposuction and Vibrosat liposuction technologies may be used in combination.

This approach aims to remove excess fatty tissue in a controlled manner while preserving the surrounding tissues as much as possible and minimising trauma in the operated area.

In suitable patients, energy-based skin tightening technologies can also be added to the treatment plan. The aim is not only to reduce excess fat but also to support the skin and tissue quality of the treated area.

Preserving the lymphatic structures is especially important in lipedema. For this reason, the technique used, the areas treated and the amount of fat removed are not based on a standard protocol but are planned individually according to the patient’s anatomy and the extent of the lipedema.

Recovery After Lipedema Surgery

Instead of conventional surgical incisions, lipedema surgery uses small entry points created for the liposuction cannulas. Dr. Nihal Üstün’s surgical approach aims to traumatise the tissues as little as possible and to make the postoperative period as comfortable as possible for the patient.

Some swelling, tenderness and bruising after the operation is normal. Because the liposuction entry points are small and there are no large surgical incisions, the return to daily life is generally faster than after more extensive open surgery.

During recovery it is important to wear the compression garment for the period recommended by your doctor, to follow the advice on movement and walking, and to attend all follow-up appointments. As the swelling subsides, the changes in leg contours and body proportions become more visible over time.

For a detailed assessment of lipedema surgery, VASER liposuction and the lipedema treatment options suitable for you, you can book a consultation with Dr. Nihal Üstün.