Though the exact cause of lipedema is unknown, there seems to be a genetic predisposition with the disease as it has been observed in majority of cases there is a family history of the condition. Lipedema predominantly affects females anytime from puberty. It is seen in both thin and obese individuals alike. In the obese, lipedema may not be identified and be passed of as a part of obesity even by doctors.

Lipedema appears to be hormone related as it is triggered especially during puberty, pregnancy, peri-menopause period and after certain gynecological and cancer surgery.

This condition is characterized by large, heavy column like legs with loss of contour. As the lymphatics get blocked following expansion of fat resulting in inflammation leading to fibrosis resulting in a condition called lipolymphedema.

Lipedema must be diagnosed into four stages: mild, moderate, severe and morbid lipedema. Dr Srinagesh carefully evaluates his patients if they are eligible candidates for liposuction. Assessment is made with regard to presence of spider veins and/ or varicose veins which need to be treated. A customized treatment plan is made and a multi-pronged treatment plan is made and executed to deliver the maximum benefit possible.

After surgery the patient is placed in custom fit compression garments which they have to wear 24 hours a day for the next 4-6 weeks. Thereafter she needs to wear the compression garments for atleast 12 hours a day for another 4-6 weeks.

MLD can be resumed 7-10 days after the surgery once a week for 2-4 sessions depending on the extent of surgery.

Most of the patients are quite surprised at their speed of recovery. Dr Srinagesh recommends a minimum of 1-3 km walk as soon as possible after surgery.

Dr. Srinagesh has dedicated a good part of his professional life to care for those suffering from lipedema to lead a healthy, pain-free and happy lives.

11-15 out of every 100 women suffer from varying degrees of lipedema. The cause of lipedema is unknown but there is evidence pointing to genetic and hormonal origin.

You may have lipedema if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Disproportionate accumulation of fat on the legs, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms or abdomen
• Swelling of feet and legs on prolonged standing or walking
• Bruising easily
• Sensitive skin to touch, extreme tiredness, lack of energy or generally feeling unwell
• Fat accumulation on your legs and ankles not reducing with diet or exercise
• Development of knee fat pads
• Developing uneven and lumpy fatty areas like cellulite
• Accumulation of large volume of fat in the upper arms
• Developing a rubbery or orange peel swelling in the lower abdomen

Most people including the medical community are unaware of the condition called lipedema and hence misdiagnosed. Many patients with lipedema are told that they are obese and should lose weight. Unfortunately, no amount of diet or exercise can correct the condition.

Symptoms of lipedema include:

The accumulation of fat in the buttocks, thighs, calves, and sometimes the upper limbs on both sides of the body.

Bumps within the fat that feel like something is beneath the epidermis.

Pain that can range from mild to severe and be constant or intermittent.

A sensation of heaviness in the legs.

There is swelling.

Skin that is prone to bruising.

Fatigue (feeling significantly more fatigued than usual)