Once women are appropriately diagnosed with lipedema, a new stage of life can begin. Surgical help, treatment options, and emotional support can become the cornerstones for women living with this progressive disease.
The signs and symptoms of lipedema rarely vary, but women often get overlooked by medical professionals who see them as having only an issue with their weight. Lipedema is a medical condition that plagues mainly women and gets progressively worse if left undiagnosed.
Today, women are fighting back to get a proper diagnosis and treatment assistance to live a fuller, healthier life.Founded by lipedema specialist and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaime Schwartz, TLC is a center solely dedicated to giving women the necessary support for a better quality of life.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a genetic, progressive condition that primarily affects women, often leading to an abnormal accumulation of fat in the lower body—particularly the legs, hips, and buttocks. Sometimes referred to as the “painful fat” syndrome or the “big leg” disorder, lipedema is characterized by disproportionate fat storage in the subcutaneous tissue, which can cause both physical discomfort and aesthetic concerns.
While the condition typically spares the feet and hands, it can sometimes affect the arms, especially in advanced stages. As lipedema progresses, it becomes more painful and debilitating, leading to increased swelling, tenderness, and mobility challenges.
Early diagnosis is important, as early treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent the disease from worsening. If you notice unusual fat buildup or discomfort in your lower body, seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference in managing the condition.
Living a Fuller Life with Lipedema
Once a woman gets a proper diagnosis, her life can begin living with this disease. Although there is no cure for lipedema, women can help slow down its progression and live a fuller life. Compression garments, therapy, water activities, and surgical removal of the altered subcutaneous fat buildup are all notable players in the treatment of lipedema. Here is a look at the daily factors and treatment options that can help manage symptoms and make life more comfortable.
Nutrition Recommendations
A healthy, balanced diet can reduce triggers that cause lipedema flare-ups of inflammation or swelling. New studies show that a low-glycemic diet high in fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins (chicken or fish), and whole grains can help with specific lipedema symptoms.
Highly processed foods or foods with artificial preservatives, fake sweeteners, or other fillers, particularly fast food, should be avoided. Inflammation and painful swelling only increase with foods high in sodium. Daily dietary choices can have a profound effect on lipedema symptoms.
Stay Active and Exercise
As the fatty tissue accumulates, it becomes increasingly harder for women to remain mobile. Patients deal with more buildup in certain areas, especially the legs, which may become more painful and cumbersome.
Women with lipedema in the earlier stages should maintain light walking at least 3 – 4 times a week for 45 minutes. Women in the later stages of lipedema should turn to water aerobics or swimming to reduce the impact on their joints while keeping active. Any activity can help to keep a woman’s weight and symptoms manageable, which can offer them a better quality of life.
Avoid Unnecessary Weight Gain
Lipedema is a disease that causes unwanted fatty fluid buildup. It gets worse as it progresses, leaving women with poor circulation, strained lymphatic systems, and inhibited mobility. Additional weight gain due to poor diet or lack of exercise only enhances these issues.
A woman’s lymphatic system becomes more compromised and painful inflammation and swelling are triggered. Patients who maintain a healthy diet along with staying active to avoid putting on additional weight should notice overall health benefits.
Surgical Help
Women living with lipedema face unique challenges, from painful symptoms to difficulties managing the physical and emotional impacts of the condition. At Total Lipedema Care (TLC) in Beverly Hills, Dr. Jaime Schwartz offers surgical solutions like liposuction to address the buildup of subcutaneous fat and improve circulation.
Lymph-sparing liposuction is a specialized technique that helps manage fatty buildup, reduces excessive lipedema fluid, and alleviates pressure on the body. This procedure not only improves physical comfort but can also significantly enhance mobility and overall quality of life.
For many women, lipedema can lead to a cycle of frustration—struggling with weight management, pain, and a lack of effective treatment. If left untreated, the condition can worsen, leading to more severe health and emotional challenges.
Dr. Schwartz and the team at TLC are dedicated to offering hope and solutions for women seeking to improve their lives. With expert care and innovative treatment options, women with lipedema can take back control of their health and well-being.
If you’re ready to explore treatment options and improve your quality of life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jaime Schwartz at Total Lipedema Care today.