Understanding Lipoedema: A Call for Individualised Care and Education

As awareness grows, lipoedema is becoming a more widely recognized and studied condition, predominantly affecting women. Around the world, research is ongoing to uncover the root causes, symptoms, diagnostic tools, and effective treatments for this complex condition.

However, with increased awareness has come a troubling trend: the monetization of lipoedema diagnosis and treatment. On social media, countless "experts" have emerged, turning treatment into a profitable business rather than a patient-centred journey.

When I first encountered lipoedema during my Lymphoedema certification in 2008, the consensus was clear: there is no cure. Treatment, while helpful, often fell short of delivering significant, lasting results. Unfortunately, much of that remains true today.

The Role of Inflammation in Lipoedema

Recent research has revealed that lipoedema is an inflammatory condition. This aligns with the broader understanding of how lifestyle factors—diet, stress, and environmental toxins—contribute to chronic inflammation in the body. For those with lipoedema, reducing these inflammatory triggers could, in theory, help alleviate symptoms.

But let’s be honest: implementing these changes is far from simple. Human beings are creatures of habit. From a young age, we’re shaped by cultural norms, family beliefs, and societal pressures about what we should eat, how we should live, and what health looks like. This conditioning often makes it challenging to listen to our bodies and adopt the lifestyle changes we need most.

Individualised Care: One Size Does Not Fit All

Each person’s DNA, metabolism, and lifestyle are unique. While some thrive on protein-rich diets, others do better with a balance of carbohydrates or plant-based eating. Yet, mainstream advice tends to promote a "one-size-fits-all" approach, often leading to frustration and failure.

This is especially problematic when it comes to weight management. Despite endless dieting trends, only about 5% of people maintain significant weight loss after two years. This statistic highlights the need for personalized, sustainable approaches rather than cookie-cutter solutions.

The Impact of Modern Lifestyles

Modern agricultural practices, processed foods, and our fast-paced, stress-laden lives have significantly increased systemic inflammation in our bodies. The quality of the food we eat and the environment we live in directly affect our health, compounding challenges for those managing conditions like lipoedema.

Lipoedema and Surgical Intervention

For women with lipoedema, surgery, such as liposuction, may be a viable option to improve their quality of life. However, surgery is a major decision—not the quick fix it is sometimes portrayed to be on social media.

The International Lipoedema Association (ILA) emphasizes that psychological assessment should precede any surgical intervention. Weight management, tailored exercise programs, and long-term health commitment should also be prioritized. Surgery should only be considered when these foundational elements are in place.

The Role of Therapists in Postoperative Care

For those who choose surgery, the role of skilled therapists becomes crucial. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) alone is insufficient for optimal recovery. A comprehensive approach to aftercare should include:

• Multilayer bandaging
• Prescriptive exercise programs
• Custom-fit, flat-knit compression garments
• Ongoing client accountability

Success requires a partnership between therapist and client, with both parties investing in achieving the best possible outcomes.

Join the Lipoedema Liposuction Aftercare Workshop

If you’re a therapist passionate about supporting women with lipoedema, I invite you to join me for the Lipoedema Liposuction Aftercare Workshop from April 2–4, 2025, at Wood MediSpa, Devon, UK. Learn more about the workshop HERE

This groundbreaking workshop will provide therapists with the skills and knowledge needed to offer gold-standard care, ensuring patients receive the support they need for long-term success.

Prerequisites apply. For more details, email [email protected].

Together, let’s redefine care for women with lipoedema—one individualised, compassionate step at a time.