Lipedema is a chronic disorder that causes an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs, hips, and sometimes arms. It can be painful and lead to mobility issues, making it challenging to perform everyday activities. However, there are treatment options available to help manage the symptoms of Lipedema and improve your mobility. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

What is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a medical condition that is often misdiagnosed. It affects mostly women and is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs and hips, which can cause pain and mobility issues. This condition is often mistaken for obesity, but it is not related to weight gain or lifestyle choices. Lipedema can be challenging to diagnose, and many people are not aware that they have it.

The exact cause of Lipedema is unknown, but it is believed to be related to hormones and genetics. The condition may also be triggered by pregnancy, menopause, or other hormonal changes. Lipedema can lead to a range of symptoms, including swelling, tenderness, pain, and bruising. The legs may feel heavy and achy, and it can be challenging to move around.

Lipedema Treatment Options

There are several treatment options available for Lipedema that can help manage the symptoms and improve mobility. These treatments include:

1. Compression Therapy

Compression therapy involves wearing compression garments on the affected limbs to help reduce swelling and improve circulation. Compression garments are available in various sizes and styles, and they can be worn during the day and at night.

2. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

MLD is a massage technique that helps to stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce swelling. It involves gentle, rhythmic movements that can be performed by a trained massage therapist.

3. Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess fat from the affected areas. It is not a cure for Lipedema, but it can help to reduce the symptoms and improve mobility.

4. Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise can help to manage the symptoms of Lipedema. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help to maintain a healthy weight and improve circulation. It is essential to work with a healthcare professional to develop a diet and exercise plan that is safe and effective.

Your Improved Mobility

By managing the symptoms of Lipedema, you can improve your mobility and quality of life. Compression therapy and MLD can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation, making it easier to move around. Liposuction can help to reduce the excess fat that can lead to pain and mobility issues. Diet and exercise can also help to maintain a healthy weight and improve circulation.

It is essential to work with a healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. A healthcare professional can help to diagnose Lipedema and recommend the best treatment options for your specific case. They can also provide guidance on diet and exercise and monitor your progress over time.

Health Risks of Lipedema

Lipedema can lead to a range of health risks if left untreated. The excess fat in the legs and hips can put pressure on the joints, leading to arthritis and other joint-related issues. It can also lead to lymphedema, which is a chronic swelling of the limbs that can be difficult to manage. Lipedema can also lead to skin issues, such as cellulitis and lymphangitis.

It is essential to seek treatment for Lipedema as soon as possible to prevent these health risks. By managing the symptoms and improving mobility, you can reduce the risk of developing these complications. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

Contact Marietta, Georgia Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta for a Consultation

For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

• • psiatlanta.com
  • sexualaesthetics.com
  • lipedemaspecialist.com

Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.

Lipedema is a condition that causes an abnormal accumulation of fat in certain parts of the body such as the thighs, hips, and buttocks. It typically affects women, though men can also be affected. While lipedema is not a life-threatening disease, it can cause significant physical and psychological discomfort. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

What is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a condition in which fat accumulates abnormally in certain areas of the body, such as the legs, hips, and buttocks. It is more common in women, although men can be affected as well. Typically, lipedema affects both sides of the body symmetrically. It can cause swelling, tenderness, and a feeling of heaviness in the affected areas.

The primary symptom of lipedema is an abnormal accumulation of fat in certain areas of the body. This fat is typically firm and can’t be reduced through diet and exercise. Lipedema is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema, a condition in which the lymphatic system is blocked and causes fluid to accumulate in the body.

Lipedema can lead to difficulty with mobility and an increased risk of other health conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis, cellulitis, and lymphedema.

Causes

The exact cause of lipedema is unknown. However, it is thought to be linked to hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. It is also thought to be linked to certain genetic factors, such as a family history of lipedema.

Other possible causes of lipedema include lifestyle factors, such as lack of exercise, poor nutrition, and a sedentary lifestyle. It is also possible that lipedema could be caused by certain medications or medical conditions.

Lipedema Treatment Options

The primary goal of treatment for lipedema is to reduce pain and discomfort, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of other health conditions. Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and may also include medical treatments, such as compression garments, physical therapy, and liposuction.

Lifestyle changes are often the first line of treatment for lipedema. Eating a healthy, balanced diet, getting regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help reduce symptoms of lipedema.

Compression garments can also be helpful in decreasing swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with lipedema. Specialized bras, stockings, and other garments that provide compression can help reduce swelling in the affected areas.

Physical therapy can also be helpful in reducing the symptoms of lipedema. Physical therapists can teach you exercises that can help reduce swelling and improve mobility. They can also teach you ways to manage pain and discomfort.

Finally, liposuction for lipedema can be an effective treatment for reducing fat in the affected areas. This is typically done with a small incision and is done under local or general anesthesia.

Contact Us

If you or someone you know has lipedema, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to providing the best care possible and helping you find the right treatment plan. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

Contact Marietta, Georgia Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta for a Consultation

For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

• • psiatlanta.com
  • sexualaesthetics.com
  • lipedemaspecialist.com

Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.

Lipedema is a disorder in which fat is unevenly distributed throughout the body, most commonly building up in the legs and upper arms. This condition can become so severe that it may cause immobility and health issues such as joint damage and varicose veins. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

How Does Lipedema Happen?

The cause of lipedema is still unknown, but has been found to be hereditary and more common in females. This condition typically becomes worse after changes in the hormones, such as after puberty, pregnancy or menopause.

Treatment

Treatment options for lipedema include:

• Liposuction: outpatient procedure that removes excess fat
• Lymphatic drainage: a specialized massage that helps absorb fat 
• Nutrition therapy
• Hormone evaluation and therapy

Liposuction Procedure for Lipedema

Liposuction is the most effective treatment for lipedema, offering immediate results following the procedure. During liposuction, a solution containing saline and a local anesthetic is injected into the treatment areas, then is suctioned out using a small cannula. Patients can expect swelling and bruising for several weeks following liposuction, but will have immediate relief from lipedema.

Treat Lipedema as Soon as Possible

If left untreated, lipedema poses a serious threat to your health. As this condition progresses, you may lose mobility of the legs and arms. Fat buildup can cause circulation issues, fibrosis, joint damage, vein conditions and more.

Contact Marietta, Georgia Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta for a Consultation

For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

• • psiatlanta.com
  • sexualaesthetics.com
  • lipedemaspecialist.com

Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.

Lipedema is a chronic disorder in which fat is stored in the body disproportionately in the upper arms, thighs, knees and ankles. This condition affects millions of individuals and is often misdiagnosed as lymphedema. Left untreated, lipedema can cause complications such as varicose veins, joint damage, discomfort and pain. The Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta (PSI), led by plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey, provides treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

Risks of Lipedema

Lipedema can cause diseases of the veins, joints, as well as cause discomfort, swelling and pain. Those suffering from lipedema can impair mobility, making everyday activities difficult and less enjoyable. Self-confidence can also be damaged as the body is often severely disproportionate. These issues can make the quality of life for those with lipedema very poor.

Treatment

Treatment of lipedema involves personalized care to achieve best results. The most effective treatment options include:

• Liposuction
• Lymphatic drainage
• Nutrition therapy
• Hormone evaluation and therapy

Due to the progressive nature of Lipedema, immediate treatment is recommended to avoid loss of mobility and compromised blood circulation. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides customized treatment of lipedema to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

Contact Marietta, Georgia Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta for a Consultation

For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

• • psiatlanta.com
  • sexualaesthetics.com
  • lipedemaspecialist.com

Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.

Lipedema and lymphedema are two different medical conditions which are often mistakenly used interchangeably. These two conditions are similar in name, but significantly different in other ways. It’s vital that you understand the difference between the two and how each affects the human body. There is no cure for either lipedema or lymphedema.

Moreover, there are certain treatments, such as liposuction fat reduction plastic surgery that can be used for reducing their overall impact. The Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, led by plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides liposuction fat reduction surgery to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding locations.

What is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic fat disorder in which the body can metabolize fat. The distribution of fat is disproportionate in certain areas, particularly the lower half of the body. Lipedema affects both men and women. Based on this, it’s more commonly seen in women. Lipedema sufferers present a disproportionate amount of stored fat in the inner thighs, outer thighs, ankles, and lower legs. 

In some cases, fat may get stored in the upper arms as well. Severe cases of lipedema may present as disfiguring fat deposits. It may result in problems with mobility and joints as well. Lipedema cause is unknown. In relation to this, doctors believe the condition is linked with hormones. This is why the condition is more commonly noticed in women during menopause, puberty, pregnancy, and other extreme hormonal change situations. 

About Lymphedema

Lymphedema is an excess build-up of fluid in the lower legs and arms. Lipedema is primarily characterized with increased fatty tissue while lymphedema is increased lymph fluid in the affected tissues. Lymphedema occurs when there is a blockage in the lymphatic system. This is a part of the immune system. The blockage doesn’t allow the lymph fluid to drain properly and a build-up can cause swelling. Lymphedema causes can be divided into primary and secondary. 

Primary causes on their own while secondary causes are the result of another condition or disease. Primary lymphedema is inherited and rare. It usually develops in infancy, pregnancy, or puberty. It may develop after 35 in some cases as well. On the other hand, secondary lymphedema is caused by an injury to the lymph nodes during exposure to radiation treatments, surgery, or an infection. 

Liposuction is a Viable Treatment

At present, there is no cure for either lipedema or lymphedema. There are several treatments that can help in managing the symptoms of lipedema and lymphedema. Liposuction has show great results in managing both lipedema and lymphedema. In fact, it is among the few treatments that can deal with excess fatty tissue in patients suffering from lipedema. 

Liposuction cosmetic surgery can be used for targeting the primary affected areas, such as the thighs, buttocks, lower legs, and arms. Liposuction, when combined with a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet, can drastically reduce the symptoms of lipedema. It can contribute to an increased quality of life. Liposuction provides more or less permanent results. 

It can help patients avoid obesity and long-term weight gain. It can also help in reducing discomfort and swelling. Veteran cosmetic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and nearby areas for liposuction fat reduction surgery. 

Contact Marietta, Georgia Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta for a Consultation

For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

• • psiatlanta.com
  • sexualaesthetics.com
  • lipedemaspecialist.com

Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.

Lipedema Fat

Lipedema is believed to only affect the hip region and legs in women since the first identification of symptoms. However, other areas of the body can also be affected lipedema fat even though these are the most common areas to be impacted.

Recent literature on lipedema has shed light on how the disorder is not a bilateral condition that only targets the lower body. In this post, let us look at a few body areas where fat could accumulate on the body in case of lipedema.

Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta (PSI), led by plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey, provides lipedema surgery to patients in Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and surrounding communities.

Head to Shoulders

The face and neckline are the rarest areas for lipedema fat to accumulate. Research studies have found that the condition develops in three separate phases in which lipedema fat tissue and changes in skin become apparent. Lipedema fat accumulation was not observed to typically accumulate in the posterior neck and cranium in these studies.

Other common areas that usually see lipedema fat accumulation are anterior chest and below the shoulder line. Approximately, 37% women showed lipedema fat in these areas as per the study. Anterior refers to the areas that are visible when looked at a straight standing person from the front.

Upper Body

Upper body, including the arms, abdomen, and torso are other areas where lipedema fat accumulation is not usually seen. Over 90% women will notice lipedema fat accumulation around the anterior forearm, inner elbow area, and anterior arm. Similar reports were made for abdomen and ribcage in the study. Least lipedema fat accumulation was seen in the hands with only 22% women reporting fat.

Lower Body

Lipedema fat often accumulates in the lower body, including the buttocks and thighs. However, it is not rare for lipedema fat to accumulate in the ankle region. Women majorly see lipedema fat in these areas, including the backside of the legs and around the inner knee. Backside of the foot will rarely experience lipedema fat. Only 6% women experience fat in this area.

Tests to Diagnose Lipedema

There is no individual test for diagnosing lipedema. However, tests help in ruling out related disorders.

1. Venous Doppler Ultrasound

Venous Doppler ultrasound is useful in diagnosing lipedema. Doppler ultrasound tests help in determining the presence of venous disorders. It also provides critical information about managing lipedema. For instance, if the tests show the presence of venous insufficiency, then it is important that treatment is provided immediately for the disorder. Or else, increased venous pressures would result in aggravating lipedema.

2. Lymphoscintigraphy

This test is generally recommended for complicated cases where it is difficult to arrive at a clear clinical diagnosis. Lymphoscintigraphy is a nuclear scan for assessing the lymph system. It may come back normal in case of lipedema. However, it will show characteristic corkscrew changes if you are suffering from lymphedema. The test can be helpful in determining whether lymphedema has a significant role in the symptoms. This is especially if there are swelling concerns.

The Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta (PSI), led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey, receives patients from Atlanta, Marietta, Georgia, and nearby areas for safe and proven lipedema surgery.

Contact Marietta, Georgia Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey at the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta for a Consultation

For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

• • psiatlanta.com
  • sexualaesthetics.com
  • lipedemaspecialist.com

Serving patients in and around Marietta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Buckhead, Morningside/Lenox Park, Virginia-Highland, Candler Park, Midtown, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland, Ormewood Park, Georgia and other surrounding areas.