Tumescent Liposuction: A New and Successful Therapy for Lipedema

Abstract

Background:

Lipedema is a rare and painful disease in women. Until recently, it could be treated only by conservative methods (combined physical therapy).

Objective:

To determine the efficacy and safety of surgery (liposuction) concerning appearance and associated complaints.

Methods:

Twenty-eight patients, who had undergone conservative therapy over a period of years, were treated by liposuction under tumescent local anesthesia with vibrating microcannulas. Twenty-one could be reevaluated after an average of 12.2 (1–26) months.

Results:

All showed great improvement, with normalization of body proportions. Additionally, spontaneous pain, sensitivity to pressure, and bruising either disappeared completely or improved markedly. Other than minor swelling for a few days, no complications could be observed following surgery. All patients reported a tremendous increase in their quality of life. Physical therapy had to be continued to a much lower degree.

Conclusion:

Tumescent liposuction has proved to be a safe and effective treatment for lipedema.