Lipedema treatment in Hamburg

Lipedema is a chronic disease that primarily affects women and is characterised by an uncontrolled, pathological increase in fatty tissue. The legs and arms are particularly affected. The fat distribution disorder typically occurs during puberty, after pregnancy or during the menopause.

Depending on the progression of the disease, different symptoms can occur that can significantly affect daily life, including pain and limited mobility. There is currently no empirical evidence of a cure. Conservative treatments such as wearing compression garments or lymphatic drainage can alleviate the symptoms. Liposuction is the only method of removing the abnormally altered fat cells.

The main feature of Lipedema is a visible and palpable increase in subcutaneous fatty tissue, usually starting on the legs, which usually occurs symmetrically. The affected areas are often sensitive and painful and tend to form bruises. Those affected often report a feeling of tension, coldness and heaviness in the affected limbs.

To determine whether typical symptoms of Lipedema are present, we offer an online self-test. This can provide you with an initial assessment and serve as the basis for an initial consultation.

The exact causes of Lipedema have not yet been conclusively clarified, but a genetic predisposition is suspected, especially as the disease often runs in families. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy or the menopause, for example due to oestrogen and progesterone, also appear to play a role. A possible malfunction of the lymphatic vessels, which leads to increased fluid retention in the fatty tissue, is also being discussed.

It is a common misconception that Lipedema is the same as being overweight. Lipedema is not caused by inappropriate diet or lack of exercise and cannot be treated with diet or exercise.

Lipedema is diagnosed during an initial consultation at our clinic in Hamburg. Patients often already have a diagnosis and also seek a second opinion from us. Our many years of experience and extensive expertise enable us to make an accurate and well-founded assessment. We start with a detailed medical history, followed by a thorough physical examination, during which we pay particular attention to the typical fat distribution and the nature of the fatty tissue. Imaging procedures such as ultrasound support the assessment and help to rule out other diseases. Thanks to our many years of experience and specialisation in Lipedema, we offer you first-class care and the best possible basis for your treatment.

The aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Conservative methods such as manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments, specially adapted nutrition and exercise therapy are used.

In advanced stages of the disease, conservative treatment options are often limited. Effective relief of the symptoms and an aesthetic adjustment of the body contour are usually only possible through liposuction. At the Elbklinik Hamburg, we use the gentle PAL method (Power-Assisted Liposuction), which delivers very effective results in a tissue-sparing and precise manner and allows us to remove significantly more fat than with aesthetic liposuction. To optimally support the healing process, we also provide personalised tips on nutritional methods that have brought our patients good results to date. To perfect the aesthetic result, we also perform scarless skin tightening. Surgical tightening is also an option for severe findings. Our holistic approach ensures that both your health and aesthetic needs are met and adapted to your individual requirements.