Abstract
Lipedema is associated with numerous myths. In this fourth part of our series of articles
we will examine the value of liposuction in the treatment of lipedema. We discuss
the common statement amongst doctors who offer this procedure, that “liposuction leads
to comprehensive and long-term improvement of lipedema”. We have been able to show
that there is a considerable gap between the often euphoric promises made by surgeons,
and the current findings on liposuction. There are deficits in the quality and settings
of many studies, deficits which lead to doubt with regards to these statements. There
is a similar gap between the recommendations in the S1-guideline for lipedema and
actual practise, as performed on obese lipedema patients. The “critical indication
assessment” recommended in the guideline is often not adhered to in patients simultaneously
presenting with obesity and lipedema. It can not be emphasised enough that liposuction
is not a method to be used for
treating obesity. Liposuction can however lead to an improvement in a patient’s lipedema,
but the correct selection of patients according to medical criteria is the decisive
factor for therapeutic success. Liposuction should thus be embedded in a unifying
concept which encompasses psychosocial, nutritional and sports medicinal aspects.
Key words
Lipedema - liposuction - scientific evidence - obesity
