Lipoedema treatment

You are usually a suitable candidate for lipoedema liposuction if you have been officially diagnosed with lipoedema, experience symptoms such as pain, a feeling of heaviness or restricted movement, and conservative treatments such as compression garments or physiotherapy do not provide sufficient relief. Have you not been officially diagnosed? The doctor at Wellness Kliniek can often make the diagnosis for you during a no-obligation initial consultation, using specialised ultrasound equipment that allows them to examine the fat tissue beneath the skin.

Age: There is no strict lower or upper age limit, but the doctor will assess whether you are physically and medically suitable. In the case of young women, we often wait until the lipoedema has stabilised (usually after puberty). At Wellness Kliniek, the minimum age is 18.

BMI: Being overweight in itself is not a contraindication, but a healthy body weight increases safety and aids recovery. In cases of an extremely high BMI, a doctor may advise losing weight first to reduce the risk of complications. Specifically for lipoedema: the most important factor is that the fat is abnormal and requires treatment; it is not about losing weight.

During the treatment, the abnormal lipoedema fat is removed; the amount that can be removed depends on the severity and extent of the lipoedema, as well as medical safety considerations. During the consultation, an experienced specialist will assess exactly which areas can be treated and how much fat can be safely removed to both alleviate symptoms and maintain a natural-looking result.

Although lipoedema is a recognised medical condition in which fat accumulates in an atypical manner, there are ways to alleviate symptoms without surgery. For example, you can wear compression garments to reduce swelling and the feeling of heaviness. Light exercise and physiotherapy can also help to stimulate blood circulation and strengthen the muscles. A healthy diet and lifestyle help maintain overall weight and well-being, but have little effect on the abnormal fat tissue associated with lipoedema.

For an effective and long-lasting reduction in lipoedema, specialised medical treatment is often necessary. At Wellness Kliniek, our doctors combine experience and advanced technology in a targeted treatment using WAL liposuction. This method has been developed to reduce symptoms, improve mobility and restore natural body contours, with a clear impact on comfort and quality of life. During a personal, no-obligation consultation, the options and treatment plan will be discussed with you in detail.

The price of lipoedema treatment using specialised liposuction is determined per treated area. At the Wellness Kliniek, we offer transparent all-inclusive prices, so you know exactly where you stand in advance. View our current lipoedema treatment prices. These are fully inclusive of:

• Liposuction treatment using specialist lipoedema liposuction technology.
• Admission and anaesthesia.
• Medical aftercare and follow-up.
• Compression bandages or compression garments.
• 21% VAT.

WAL liposuction, or Water-Assisted Liposuction, is the gold standard for the treatment of lipoedema. This technique uses a pulsating jet stream of water to gently loosen the fatty tissue, which is then immediately suctioned away. This method spares surrounding tissues and lymph vessels as much as possible, which is essential in lipoedema because the tissue is sensitive and fragile. WAL liposuction is therefore not only aimed at reducing abnormal fat deposits, but also at improving patients’ comfort, mobility and overall quality of life.

The treatment offers several key benefits. Firstly, it ensures maximum protection of the lymphatic vessels, thereby minimising the risk of complications such as lymphoedema. As the water jet gently loosens the fat, there is minimal damage to the surrounding tissue, ensuring that the skin and underlying structures are preserved as much as possible. In addition, blood loss during the treatment is limited, and the fat can be removed precisely and in a controlled manner, contributing to a natural-looking result. For patients, this means not only a reduction in pain and heaviness, but also a subtle improvement in body contours. WAL liposuction is also a method that leaves relatively few bruises, with less pain and a faster recovery.

As with any medical procedure, WAL liposuction carries risks and potential complications. Possible side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, and mild pain or tenderness in the treated areas. Infections are rare and can usually be treated effectively. Thanks to the use of the water jet and the small incisions, the risk of damage to lymph vessels or surrounding tissues is minimal, but it can never be completely ruled out. Proper preparation, aftercare and wearing compression garments significantly reduce the risk of complications and support recovery. By following the doctor’s aftercare instructions, recovery is often quick and successful.

The treatment begins with an initial assessment and consultation, during which your symptoms, skin condition and the severity of the lipoedema are carefully assessed. If you are undergoing the lipoedema treatment, the areas to be treated are carefully marked out to ensure the best possible result. The liposuction can be performed under local anaesthetic with sedation or under general anaesthesia, depending on the extent of the treatment and your personal preference.

Through small incisions, the abnormal fatty tissue is removed using fine cannulas, whilst the surrounding tissue remains as intact as possible. After the procedure, you will wear compression garments or elastic bandages, which help to reduce swelling, promote recovery and maintain the final result. Recovery is usually smooth, with patients able to resume light activities after a few days, and more strenuous exercise often possible within a few weeks.

Following lipoedema treatment with WAL liposuction, aftercare plays a vital role in ensuring a good recovery and optimal results. Immediately after the procedure, you will wear compression bandages and special compression garments, which help to reduce swelling, ensure the skin fits snugly and support the treated tissue during the healing process.

The removal of lipoedema tissue using WAL liposuction is performed under general anaesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure itself. Fortunately, most patients experience minimal pain afterwards as well. In the first few days, you may experience slight swelling, bruising or tenderness, similar to muscle ache after intense exercise. This is normal and temporary.

Rest, plenty of gentle exercise and consistently wearing the compression garments will aid your recovery. Your doctor will give you personalised advice on aftercare and let you know when it is safe to resume your daily activities, exercise and work.

Following lipoedema treatment with WAL liposuction, you will usually notice a clear reduction in the abnormal fat volume in the treated areas. Many patients experience less pain, a lighter feeling in their legs or arms, and an improvement in their mobility and daily comfort. Bruising and tenderness also often decrease.

In addition to these physical benefits, the treatment can result in a more balanced body shape, as the symmetrical fat deposits are reduced. The results develop gradually: swelling subsides in the weeks following the procedure and the final result usually becomes visible after a few months. Although WAL liposuction does not cure lipoedema, it can contribute to long-term symptom relief and a better quality of life, particularly if you continue to follow the aftercare advice and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Most patients experience the following gradually:

• Less pain and pressure.
• Lighter legs or arms.
• Greater freedom of movement.
• A marked improvement in quality of life.

Recovery following leg liposuction for lipoedema is a gradual process. Most patients resume light activities after a few days. Swelling and tenderness subside over the following weeks. The final result usually becomes visible after a few months, once the body has fully recovered.

Yes. Compression garments are an essential part of recovery following lipoedema liposuction on the legs. They help reduce swelling, support the skin and promote a good final result. Wearing compression garments also contributes to comfort during recovery. At Wellness Kliniek, the necessary compression garments are included in the transparent all-inclusive price.

The compression garments are usually worn for 6 weeks. The exact duration depends on the extent of the treatment and your recovery. Correct use of compression garments has a clear impact on the final result. Your doctor will advise you personally on this.

If you have been treated under anaesthesia (local or general), you must not drive for 24 hours. In addition, it is recommended that you only drive yourself once you can move freely and brake and steer safely. Depending on the specific procedure, your doctor can advise you personally. You have the option of booking an overnight stay at Wellness Kliniek or at a nearby hotel. As it is best not to be alone after a procedure, it is important to bring someone with you in any case.

Following liposuction on the legs or other parts of the body, you can often return to work after one to two weeks, depending on your profession. Exercise should be built up gradually, usually starting after four to six weeks. Listening to your body and following medical advice are essential in this regard. During your initial consultation, you can discuss all your questions with the doctor, so that you can draw up a plan for yourself for the period following the procedure.

Yes, certainly! However, it is important to bear in mind that hormonal fluctuations caused by pregnancy can eventually lead to weight gain and new areas of lipoedema. If you are planning to have a baby in the near future, you might consider waiting until after the pregnancy, as follow-up treatment may otherwise be necessary. Waiting is not essential, however, so please feel free to ask your doctor for personal advice.

Yes, in principle, the result of lipoedema treatment using liposuction is permanent, as the removed lipoedema fat does not return (after all, the abnormal fat cells have been removed). It is important to note, however, that lipoedema remains a chronic condition. This means that the underlying predisposition does not disappear completely. Hormonal changes, weight gain and ageing may affect your body and the development of new fat cells in the future. If necessary, you can undergo further treatment later in consultation with the specialist should symptoms return or other areas need to be treated.

It is important to note that liposuction for lipoedema is not weight-loss surgery or a treatment for cellulite. It does, however, alleviate functional symptoms and improve the contours of specific areas. While liposuction can make the body appear slimmer, it is not a substitute for weight-loss treatment. The main objectives of lipoedema treatment are:

• Symptom relief.
• Relief of the lymphatic system.
• Restoration of the body’s natural contours.

In specialised lipoedema liposuction, the procedure focuses specifically on removing pathological fatty tissue to reduce pain, pressure and mobility issues. The aim is therefore fundamentally therapeutic rather than weight loss. This contrasts with aesthetic liposuction, a cosmetic treatment designed to improve body contours in areas of localised fat deposits. Would you also like to lose weight? The doctor will be happy to discuss with you the options for combining liposuction for lipoedema with liposuction for localised slimming.

Lipoedema tissue is delicate and has poor blood supply. WAL liposuction is a precise technique using specialised equipment. It operates in a controlled manner, using water to gently flush out the fat whilst sparing important structures such as lymph vessels. The result is precise fat removal with less swelling, less blood loss and a lower risk of complications.

In traditional liposuction, fat is mechanically dislodged, which can cause more trauma to the delicate and poorly perfused tissue. However, when dealing with non-lipoedema tissue, traditional liposuction techniques are usually sufficient in terms of efficiency. With delicate lipoedema tissue, the difference in technique is crucial for better protecting the lymphatic system.

In some cases, the doctor may combine aesthetic liposuction with liposuction for lipoedema. This may be possible, for example, if the body has areas of fat unrelated to lipoedema alongside the lipoedema-affected areas. It is important to note that preserving the lymphatic vessels and the patient’s safety always remain the priority. The doctor will therefore assess your situation personally to see whether a combination of fat liposuction (aesthetic) and lipoedema liposuction (therapeutic) is an option.

The specialist at Wellness Kliniek can almost always treat lipoedema in the legs and arms, although it is still important that you have a personal consultation to determine whether it is actually lipoedema and what the expected results are. In practice, most people visit Wellness Kliniek for lipoedema in the legs or arms, but other parts of the body can often be treated as well. During a consultation, the options will be discussed with you in detail.

Lipoedema fat and fluid hardly respond to weight loss, so there is little you can do in that regard. If you are overweight for reasons unrelated to lipoedema, it can sometimes help to aim for a healthier weight first, as this can reduce the risk of complications during the procedure and increase the likelihood of better results. However, in general, losing weight is not necessary (and often not even feasible) before undergoing the procedure. It is worth noting, incidentally, that many patients find it easier to manage their weight and lose weight more easily following lipoedema liposuction.

Proper preparation for lipoedema treatment involves a consultation, medical screening and a clear explanation of the recovery process. At Wellness Kliniek, you will discuss your expectations, the procedure and the recovery process with your doctor beforehand, so that you know what to expect. It is important for you to follow the aftercare instructions carefully following the procedure. In addition, getting enough exercise (as advised) and giving up smoking both before and after the procedure can contribute to a smooth recovery and optimal results.

In Belgium, lipoedema treatments such as liposuction are not covered by the National Health Insurance Fund (RIZIV), and at Wellness Kliniek you are responsible for the full cost yourself. In the United Kingdom and other countries, lipoedema treatment is in some cases (partially) reimbursed by insurance – upon presentation of the invoice, usually only where there is a clear medical indication and following approval by the health insurer. Whether and how much is reimbursed depends on your insurer and your policy terms. Always check with your insurer first.

Wellness Kliniek has been voted one of the best plastic surgery clinics in Europe for several years running by independent research conducted by WhatClinic, thanks to its excellent patient experiences. With over 30 years’ experience in liposuction, a team of experienced doctors, ISO-certified quality and thousands of satisfied patients, you can count on a safe liposuction treatment at Wellness Kliniek.

We are proud of our positive patient reviews. Would you like to compare clinics and doctors for liposuction and lipoedema treatments? Then check the doctors’ experience, read reviews from others and look out for the clinic’s quality label. Always seek personal advice, as lipoedema liposuction is a bespoke procedure.

Lipoedema liposuction is a specialist technique that requires the necessary knowledge and expertise. At Wellness Kliniek, we therefore deliberately choose experienced doctors with proven expertise in the field of lipoedema liposuction. It is not only the doctor’s expertise that matters, but also the use of safe techniques, such as WAL liposuction for lipoedema. This increases the chances of success and reduces the risk of complications. Are you curious about the doctors at Wellness Kliniek? Please feel free to consult our surgeons and specialists page. Our doctors are happy to share their CVs and proven experience transparently with patients.

Lipoedema most commonly affects the legs, usually symmetrically on both sides of the body. The condition often starts around the hips and/or thighs and can gradually spread to other areas. In the legs themselves, lipoedema is mainly visible on the hips, the outer and inner thighs, around the knees and the lower legs down to the ankles. It is striking that the feet usually remain slender, which is a typical characteristic of lipoedema.

In the arms, it mainly affects the upper arms, and sometimes the forearms, whilst the hands are usually unaffected. Less commonly, lipoedema can also occur around the hips, buttocks or back, but the legs and then the arms are the most common problem areas.

Possible areas affected by lipoedema

• Lipoedema of the upper legs (lipoedema of the legs).
• Lipoedema of the lower legs (including calves and feet).
• Lipoedema of the arms, often mainly the upper arms.
• Lipoedema of the buttocks or thighs (such as saddle bags).
• Lipoedema of the back or abdomen.
• Lipoedema of the knees (often in combination with the legs).
• Often combinations of several areas.

Lipoedema is a chronic condition in which fat accumulates in an abnormal way, usually in the legs and sometimes in the arms or other parts of the body. Unlike being overweight, lipoedema does not respond to diet or intensive exercise. The legs often remain thick, painful and sensitive, whilst the upper body is slimmer. A typical feature of lipoedema is that the feet remain slender. Many women who eventually opt for leg liposuction for lipoedema say that for years they mistakenly thought they were simply overweight. An accurate diagnosis is crucial to starting the right treatment.

Lipoedema and lymphoedema are often confused, but they are different conditions. Lipoedema involves symmetrical fat accumulation, particularly in the legs, accompanied by pain and tenderness. Lipoedema does not resolve on its own and responds very little to compression alone. In lymphoedema, swelling is caused by fluid accumulation, often asymmetrical and including the feet.

As well as suffering from lymphoedema or lipoedema separately, they can also occur simultaneously. In this case, fat accumulation and fluid accumulation occur together. This is known as lipo-lymphoedema.

If in doubt, a clinical examination is essential. For women who continue to experience symptoms, liposuction on the legs can be an excellent solution for lipoedema. In the case of lymphoedema, liposuction usually does not work, and compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise and home care are more commonly chosen to keep the swelling under control.

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by people who suspect they may be suffering from lipoedema. An important difference between being overweight and lipoedema is that lipoedema is often symmetrical, mainly affects the legs or arms, and does not respond to diet or exercise. The feet and hands usually remain slender, whilst the rest of the limbs are thicker and sensitive. Pain, bruising and a feeling of heaviness are also characteristic of lipoedema. A doctor can diagnose this through examination using specialised equipment and a medical assessment.

Cellulite is often confused with lipoedema, but there are clear differences. Cellulite consists of superficial dimples or bumps on the skin, whereas lipoedema involves deeper fat deposits and a chronic, symmetrical pattern. Lipoedema can also be accompanied by pain, tenderness and fatigue in the legs or arms, something that is usually absent in cellulite.

Yes, lipoedema is a progressive condition. Without targeted treatment, the fatty tissue can increase, causing pain, heaviness and mobility problems to worsen. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during puberty, pregnancy and the menopause, play a role in this. In later stages, moving around can become increasingly difficult. That is why many women opt for liposuction on their legs at an early stage, to limit further deterioration and improve their quality of life. Early intervention generally yields better and more lasting results.

Many women with lipoedema experience chronic fatigue. The extra weight on the legs, constant pain and limited mobility take a lot of energy. This can lead to feeling exhausted more quickly during daily activities. Following targeted liposuction treatment for lipoedema, many patients report a marked improvement in their energy levels. Less pain and lighter legs make moving around less strenuous, which has a positive effect on both physical and mental energy.

Conservative treatments such as compression stockings and lymphatic drainage can temporarily relieve symptoms, but do not address the cause. The abnormal fat tissue remains. The only treatment that can effectively remove this fat is specialised liposuction. That is why liposuction of the legs for lipoedema is regarded worldwide as the most effective approach to permanently reducing pain, pressure and deformities. A healthy lifestyle remains important, but is not sufficient on its own.

Treatment options for lipoedema include both conservative and invasive measures. Conservative treatments comprise compression therapy, exercise and manual lymphatic drainage. Invasive options include specialised liposuction. Most lipoedema patients at Wellness Kliniek Belgium opt for treatment of the legs. This provides a lasting improvement, as the lipoedema fat in your legs is permanently removed. Modern techniques such as WAL liposuction have been specially developed to preserve the lymphatic system in your legs and achieve functional benefits.

Yes, this is often possible, particularly at a young age, as the fat is usually of excellent quality. The problem with lipoedema is not the fat itself, but the ‘leakage’ of fat and fluid from the capillaries. The body does not recognise this specific fat as abnormal and accepts it as its own after lipofilling. The doctor will assess whether you are a suitable candidate for lipofilling following lipoedema treatment.

It is estimated that around 10% of all women worldwide have lipoedema to some degree. It occurs mainly in women during puberty, pregnancy or hormonal changes, and is often not recognised until late on, as it is frequently confused with being overweight or cellulite.

Fortunately, not everyone with lipoedema experiences the same level of symptoms. Some women experience no symptoms or mainly cosmetic changes and a slight feeling of heaviness, whilst others experience pain, bruising, restricted movement or other severe swelling. Symptoms can therefore range from barely noticeable or mild to quite severe.

Yes, it is possible, but symptoms of lipoedema are much less common in men than in women. In men, it is usually linked to hormonal imbalances or genetic factors. If men have lipoedema, they may experience pain, a feeling of heaviness or bruising. The progression is often less typical and sometimes less symmetrical than in women. At Wellness Kliniek, our doctors mainly see women with lipoedema symptoms, but men are also welcome to visit us. The doctor can assess whether WAL liposuction for lipoedema or another treatment can provide a solution for your symptoms or your wishes.

For many people, it is. Liposuction is currently the only treatment that can effectively remove the abnormal fatty tissue associated with lipoedema. In particular, liposuction on the legs for lipoedema often leads to reduced pain, improved mobility and a more natural body shape. It is not a cosmetic procedure, but a functional treatment. The treatment does not cure the condition, but it does provide relief from the symptoms. It is essential that the procedure is performed by a doctor with experience in lipoedema.

Yes. Most women experience a significant reduction in pain and pressure sensitivity following liposuction on the legs for lipoedema. As the abnormal fatty tissue is removed, the strain on the surrounding tissue is reduced. This is one of the main reasons why patients choose this treatment.

You are eligible if you have clear symptoms such as painful, heavy legs that do not respond to diet or exercise. Liposuction for lipoedema may also be considered if lipoedema hinders your daily functioning. During a consultation, we will assess whether your symptoms, skin quality and general health are suitable for the treatment. A correct assessment of your eligibility is essential for a good result.

The fat cells removed during liposuction for lipoedema in the legs or arms do not return. The results are usually long-lasting, particularly with a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. However, follow-up remains important, as lipoedema is a chronic condition. In theory, lipoedema can continue to develop in untreated areas. In the treated areas, the results of liposuction on the legs for lipoedema usually remain stable. Early and targeted treatment reduces the risk of further progression.

Lipoedema was first described in 1940 by the American doctors Allen and Hines, who already highlighted the typical fat distribution and the significant physical and psychological impact of this condition. Despite increasing scientific attention, the exact cause has still not been fully clarified. Research focuses, among other things, on genetic predisposition, hormonal influences and abnormalities in the blood and lymphatic systems, but there is still no consensus on the exact cause.

Studies do, however, clearly demonstrate the significant impact on quality of life. In a study by Dr Josef J. Stutz involving 100 lipoedema patients, 80% reported a pain score of 5 or higher, whilst 59% even scored between 7 and 10.

Furthermore, it appears that lipoedema is often not recognised until a late stage. In around 50% of patients, it takes more than ten years for the correct diagnosis to be made, sometimes as long as thirty years. As a result, many patients live with pain and limitations for years without receiving targeted treatment.

Research by Marshall and Schwahn-Schreiber also suggests that around 9.7% of women show signs of lipoedema, indicating that it is a common but still frequently underdiagnosed condition. Early recognition and appropriate treatment are therefore desirable to limit further symptoms.

Following lipoedema treatment with liposuction, there appears to be little to no further accumulation of fat in the tissues and between the cells. Lipoedema treatment can significantly improve quality of life.