01.11.2024
Lipoedema Column – Part 7
Lipoedema and Surgery: A Tough Decision
Surgery for lipoedema, also known as liposuction or fat removal, is a medical procedure aimed at removing the diseased fat to reduce the fat distribution disorder caused by lipoedema. Many people affected by lipoedema endure a long struggle and see surgery as a last resort, or they opt for liposuction immediately after diagnosis. Often, exercise and diet have only brought limited results, and the limb pain can be overwhelming.
During liposuction, there is talk of a permanent removal of the diseased fat; however, lipoedema can recur, potentially leading to a redistribution. The surgery only addresses the symptoms, so lipoedema should ideally be approached and treated holistically.
Such an operation is not an easy decision and should be carefully considered. I’d like to cover two of the most common surgical techniques – WAL and PAL – to give you a clear overview.
The Surgical Techniques: WAL and PAL
Water-Jet Assisted Liposuction (WAL)
In the WAL method, fat tissue is loosened and then suctioned using a gentle water jet. The water jet specifically separates the fat tissue from the surrounding structures, allowing for gentler removal.
Advantages: This technique is considered particularly tissue-friendly, as the water jet causes less trauma. This leads to faster healing and reduces the risk of swelling and bruising. Additionally, it allows the surgeon to work more precisely, making the treatment more accurate.
Disadvantages: Despite the gentle approach, the WAL technique can still lead to complications such as swelling, infections, or scarring. The operation generally takes longer than other methods, which can make the procedure more complex.
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
The PAL technique uses a vibrating cannula that loosens the fat tissue and facilitates suction. The vibration of the cannula allows the surgeon to remove large amounts of fat more efficiently.
Advantages: PAL is an efficient method, particularly suitable for larger amounts of fat. The vibration facilitates suction and reduces the physical effort for the surgeon, allowing for a more precise and faster treatment.
Disadvantages: Although PAL is effective, the vibration can place greater stress on the surrounding tissue, leading to swelling and pain. Recovery time can be slightly longer with this method and, as with any surgery, there is a risk of complications.
Summarised liposuction
Pain relief: One of the biggest benefits for lipoedema sufferers is the potential pain relief. By removing the abnormal fat deposits, many women can experience a significant improvement in pain and a feeling of heaviness. This is not the case for all women who have undergone surgery; there are also women who have undergone surgery who feel no relief as a result of the operation.
Improvement in quality of life: Many women report increased self-confidence and a better quality of life after the operation. Mobility can be improved and everyday activities are easier.
Long-term results: Liposuction permanently removes the fat cells from the suctioned areas, which means that once the fat deposits have been removed, they usually do not grow back. Nevertheless, redistribution can occur and lipoedema can break out in other areas. Patients who have undergone liposuction often require further operations.
Costs: Liposuction for lipoedema is an expensive procedure that is not covered by health insurance in many cases. Depending on the extent of the procedure, the costs can amount to several thousand euros. Plus the costs that arise if there is a redistribution and further procedures are required.
Recovery time and risks: A recovery period is required after liposuction. Swelling, bruising and pain are normal after the procedure and it can take several weeks for the body to fully heal. There is also a risk of complications such as infection, scarring, uneven results, sagging skin and dimpling.
No cure for lipoedema: It is important to understand that liposuction cannot cure lipoedema. The condition is chronic and even after liposuction, sufferers must continue to pay attention to diet, exercise, compression therapy and good lipoedema management.
Not an easy decision
The decision for or against liposuction for lipoedema is highly individual and
should be carefully considered. It is essential to gather comprehensive
information on the various methods and weigh the pros and cons. Ultimately, the choice
should always be based on one's own well-being and made in close consultation with an experienced
lipoedema specialist.
An operation can improve the lives of many women with lipoedema, but it is not a
simple solution, and there is no guarantee that the lipoedema will not recur.
All the best to you,
Talia