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Liposuction for lipedema becomes a health insurance benefit

Liposuction for lipedema becomes a health insurance benefit – what this means for those affected and how the Venen Engel can help

On July 17, 2025, something happened that many women had hoped for years: The Gemeinsame Bundesausschuss (G-BA) decided that liposuction for lipedema will be recognized as a standard service by statutory health insurance under certain conditions – and not only in stage III, but for all stages of the condition.

A huge step – and for many, a real breakthrough. Because after years of waiting, struggling, and above all, not being taken seriously, it is finally recognized that lipedema is not a matter of aesthetics, but a chronic, often painful condition that can significantly impact daily life.

In this article, you'll learn:

  • How liposuction for lipedema usually proceeds
  • What requirements you need to meet for cost coverage
  • Why the surgery makes medical sense
  • How the Venen Engel can help you before and after surgery

Modern Liposuction: How the Procedure Works for Lipedema

Liposuction, colloquially also known as fat removal, is a surgical procedure. In the treatment of lipedema, a modern, particularly tissue-sparing technique is usually applied: the water-jet assisted method (WAL). Here, a watery solution is flushed into the tissue with a cannula. The water jet specifically loosens the diseased fat cells from the surrounding connective tissue, after which the mixture of fat cells and fluid is simultaneously suctioned off. In this process, special care is taken not to injure the sensitive lymphatic pathways. The method allows for the removal of a larger amount of diseased fatty tissue than with purely aesthetic liposuction.

In addition to the WAL method, there are also other procedures. Which one is most sensible is a very individual decision. Therefore, consultation with and information from the treating doctor is essential. In a personal conversation, individual factors can be discussed in detail and the advantages and disadvantages of the various methods can be explained in detail.

Liposuction for Lipedema: More than just a procedure – a true turning point

Anyone who is affected knows: Liposuction is not a "cosmetic surgery." Those affected, especially in stages I and II, still have to deal with prejudices when it comes to liposuction. But the LIPLEG study, commissioned by the G-BA itself, shows: The surgery brings more quality of life, fewer complaints, and more mobility.

Nevertheless, the surgery will only be covered by insurance in the future if certain conditions are met.

Before liposuction: Conservative therapy is mandatory for lipedema patients

To get liposuction approved, you must prove that you have been treated conservatively for at least six months – and that this therapy has not been sufficiently effective. This includes:

  • Compression therapy (e.g., flat knit)
  • Manual lymphatic drainage
  • Exercise and nutrition (including attention to BMI)
  • Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPK) – e.g., with the Venen Engel

Important to know: IPK is officially considered part of self-management – meaning it's one of the recognized, non-invasive measures that those affected can perform independently at home.
The Venen Engel offers a practical, effective solution to reduce swelling, stimulate lymph flow, and relieve pain – all from the comfort of your couch.

Preparation for Liposuction: How the Venen Engel Can Support the Body

The weeks before the surgery are crucial. Those who regularly use compression during this time not only alleviate acute pain but can also optimally prepare the body for the procedure:

  • Fewer edemas
  • Active lymph flow
  • More stable metabolism

All of this can help you get through the surgery better and allow your body to recover more quickly afterwards. That's why many doctors recommend using devices like the Venen Engel during the preparation phase – as a gentle, supportive, and preparatory measure.

After liposuction: Promote healing and reduce swelling

Since unfortunately there is still no complete cure for lipedema, therapy remains essential even after liposuction. Especially in the first few weeks after surgery, it is crucial to reduce swelling, promote circulation, and actively support the healing process to ensure long-term therapeutic success. About three weeks after surgery, the Venen Engel can be used again - of course, after consulting with a doctor.

The benefits:

  • Reduces postoperative edema
  • Activates lymph flow and thereby removes excess water retention
  • Promotes circulation and thus tissue regeneration
  • Complements manual lymphatic drainage between appointments

Many affected individuals report that the Venen Engel has helped them to better cope with the post-surgery phase - both physically and emotionally.

Experiences of those affected by lipedema that inspire courage

Just like Katharina, who decided to undergo liposuction – and used the Venen Engel both before and after:

“My experiences with the Venen Engel are consistently positive, and I hope that my story encourages others living with lipedema. There is hope, and innovative solutions like the Venen Engel can make a significant difference.”

You can find more testimonials here on our website – maybe you'll see yourself in one of them.

The Venen Engel as part of your holistic lipedema therapy

The decision of the G-BA is a huge step forward – but not a quick fix for everyone.

Whether with or without surgery: Conservative therapy remains a central part of the treatment. And this is exactly where the Venen Engel comes in:

  • Before surgery for preparation
  • After surgery to support healing
  • Or as a permanent, soothing measure for self-care

Because real change doesn't start in the operating room – but with your own step towards self-determination. And sometimes, a simple push of a button is enough.