Lipoedema is a chronic, often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many women spend years—sometimes decades—misdiagnosed or dismissed, often being told their condition is simply obesity or poor lifestyle choices.
This Women’s History Month, it's time to shine a light on lipoedema, its symptoms, challenges, and the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment.
What is Lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a chronic fat disorder that causes excessive fat accumulation in the legs, hips, and sometimes arms, creating a disproportionate body shape. Unlike typical weight gain, the fat in lipoedema is painful, easily bruises, and does not respond to diet or exercise.
While the exact cause remains unknown, researchers believe it has a strong genetic and hormonal component, as it primarily affects women, often developing during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
Key Characteristics of Lipoedema:
Symmetrical fat accumulation (affecting both legs/arms equally, sparing the feet and hands)
Pain and tenderness in affected areas
Easy bruising and sensitivity
Non-responsive to diet and exercise
Progressive worsening over time
Why Lipoedema is Often Misdiagnosed
One of the biggest struggles women with lipoedema face is misdiagnosis. Many are told they simply need to lose weight, leading to years of frustration and emotional distress. Unlike obesity, lipoedema fat is fibrotic and resistant to weight loss strategies, causing a cycle of guilt, shame, and ineffective treatments.
Some women also get misdiagnosed with lymphoedema, a condition involving fluid retention and swelling, but lipoedema differs because it primarily affects fat tissue rather than the lymphatic system.
Without proper recognition, women with lipoedema continue to suffer in silence.
The Emotional & Physical Toll of Lipoedema
Lipoedema isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it has serious physical and emotional consequences.
Physical Challenges
Mobility issues – As the fat deposits grow, walking and daily activities become harder.
Chronic pain – A dull ache or sharp pain can make movement uncomfortable.
Increased risk of secondary conditions – If untreated, lipoedema can lead to lymphedema (fluid buildup and swelling).
Mental & Emotional Struggles
Low self-esteem – Many women feel embarrassed by their body’s disproportionate shape.
Depression & anxiety – Years of being dismissed or misdiagnosed can take a mental toll.
Eating disorders & disordered body image – Constantly being told to “just lose weight” can lead to unhealthy dieting habits.
The combination of physical discomfort and emotional distress makes lipoedema a serious health issue—one that needs more awareness and research.
Treatment Options for Lipoedema
While there is no permanent cure, there are treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
1. Conservative Management
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) – A specialized massage to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Compression therapy – Wearing compression garments to improve circulation and reduce pain.
Low-impact exercise – Activities like swimming, walking, and yoga help improve mobility without worsening symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory diet – While weight loss won’t remove lipoedema fat, reducing inflammation can ease symptoms.
2. Surgical Treatment: Liposuction for Lipoedema
For severe cases, water-assisted liposuction (WAL) or tumescent liposuction can remove excess lipoedema fat, improving pain, mobility, and body proportion. Unlike regular cosmetic liposuction, this procedure is medical in nature and requires a specialist.
Lipoedema Myths vs. Facts
MYTH: Lipoedema is just obesity.
FACT: Lipoedema fat is different from regular fat and does not respond to diet or exercise.
MYTH: Only overweight women get lipoedema.
FACT: Lipoedema affects women of all body types, even those who are naturally thin.
MYTH: Lipoedema is caused by overeating.
FACT: Lipoedema is a genetic and hormonal disorder, not a result of lifestyle choices.
MYTH: Liposuction is just for cosmetic purposes.
FACT: In lipoedema patients, liposuction is a medical necessity to improve mobility and reduce pain.
MYTH: Exercise will get rid of lipoedema fat.
FACT: While exercise helps with circulation and inflammation, it does not remove lipoedema fat.
FAQs About Lipoedema
Is lipoedema life-threatening?
Lipoedema itself is not fatal, but if left untreated, it can lead to mobility issues, chronic pain, and secondary conditions like lymphedema.
Can men have lipoedema?
It is extremely rare in men. The condition is believed to be linked to female hormones, which is why it mostly affects women.
How is lipoedema diagnosed?
A physical examination by a specialist is the best way to diagnose lipoedema. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRIs may be used in some cases.
Is there a cure for lipoedema?
There is no cure, but proper treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Does losing weight help lipoedema?
Weight loss may improve overall health, but lipoedema fat does not go away with diet and exercise alone.
Why Awareness Matters: Empowering Women with Knowledge
Despite affecting 1 in 10 women, lipoedema remains one of the most underdiagnosed and misunderstood conditions in women’s health.
Many women suffer in silence, blamed for their body shape and told they just need to exercise more or eat less—when in reality, they have a legitimate medical condition that requires specialized care.
This Women’s History Month, let’s honor not just the women who have made history, but also those fighting invisible battles—like lipoedema.
By raising awareness, we can help millions of women receive the diagnosis, treatment, and support they deserve.
If you or someone you know is struggling with lipoedema, don’t stop advocating for your health. Your voice matters.
Further Reading & Resources
Lipoedema UK – https://www.lipoedema.co.uk/
The Lipedema Foundation – https://www.lipedema.org/
Women’s History Month Resources – https://womenshistorymonth.gov/