LIPEDEMA THERAPY

Lipedema is a connective tissue/fat disorder that is chronic and causes an abnormal build up of fat. The fat is usually in your hips, thighs and calves but can also present in your arms. Lipedema is classified into four types depending on where the fat accumulation is on your body. The picture  is a simplified breakdown of the types.

Lipedema primarily affects women and it initiates during times of hormonal change such as puberty, pregnancy, and peri-menopause. Sometimes the fat can become nodular-feeling and painful, either consistently or to the touch. You might bruise easily, have swelling in the affected areas, and your legs might feel heavy. 

Sometimes lipedema, depending on the severity, can lead to a combination of lipedema and lymphedema, called lipo-lymphedema. Please see my Lymphedema page under "SERVICES" for more information.

Many times, lipedema is misdiagnosed as obesity, which can cause many women to feel unheard, depressed and feeling helpless in getting the help they need. 

The treatment protocol for lipedema varies depending on the severity of your condition. Manual Lymph Drainage and wearing medical grade compression garments (custom-made preferred vs off the shelf) are greatly beneficial. If you have lipo-lymphedema, Complete Decongestive Therapy (see my Lymphedema page under "SERVICES") is needed to reduce the swelling effectively.

Surgical treatment for lipedema is also an option depending on your situation. The surgery involves liposuction specific for lipedema vs liposuction for cosmetic purposes. I've listed two surgeons in my Resource section for you if surgery is something you want to explore. Dr. David Amron and Dr. James Schwartz have separate practices, both based in Beverly Hills.

My role within your lipedema treatment is providing Manual Lymph Drainage or Complete Decongestive Therapy, depending on your needs. I also treat post-surgically for optimal reccovery. Post-surgical treatment is usually prescribed by your surgeon.

WE ACCEPT HSA & FSA!