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Lipedema

Lipedema is a chronic condition characterised by an abnormal and often painful accumulation of fat, usually in the legs, thighs, hips, and sometimes the arms. It is a progressive disorder that can affect mobility, comfort, and body confidence. At Cornerstone Clinic in Dubai Marina, we provide clear diagnosis, compassionate support, and tailored treatment plans to help patients manage symptoms and maintain a better quality of life.

 

Lipedema is frequently misunderstood or mistaken for obesity or lymphedema. Early recognition and proper management are essential for slowing progression and easing daily discomfort.

What lipedema looks and feels like

Lipedema typically presents with:

  • Symmetrical fat accumulation in the legs or arms
  • A small waist compared to lower body size
  • Tenderness or pain when pressure is applied
  • Easy bruising
  • A feeling of heaviness in the limbs
  • Difficulty losing fat in affected areas despite diet or exercise
  • Fat that feels nodular or rubbery

The condition often worsens over time, especially during hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

Causes of lipedema

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several contributing factors are recognised:

  • Hormonal influences
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Microcirculation issues
  • Inflammation of fatty tissue

Lipedema is not caused by overeating or lack of exercise, and patients often feel frustrated when standard weight loss approaches fail to improve the affected areas. Understanding the underlying condition helps guide appropriate treatment.

How lipedema is diagnosed

Accurate diagnosis starts with a detailed consultation. At Cornerstone Clinic, we take time to understand your symptoms, medical history, and concerns. Diagnosis may involve:

  • Physical examination of the limbs
  • Evaluation of skin and tissue texture
  • Discussion of pain, bruising, and sensitivity
  • Body proportion analysis
  • Ruling out lymphedema or other vascular conditions

Early diagnosis helps patients begin supportive therapies sooner, improving comfort and slowing progression.

Treatment options for lipedema

Lipedema management focuses on reducing discomfort, improving mobility, and slowing the progression of the condition. Treatment plans are personalised and may include:

Conservative management

  • Compression garments
  • Manual lymphatic drainage
  • Gentle specialised massage
  • Aquatic therapy
  • Low impact exercise
  • Anti inflammatory nutrition guidance

These therapies help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and provide relief.

Liposuction for lipedema

In some cases, specialised liposuction may be recommended to remove diseased fat tissue, improve limb shape, and reduce pain. This procedure requires an experienced specialist familiar with lipedema physiology. Liposuction for lipedema is not cosmetic; it is a medical approach aimed at improving function and long term health.
If needed, our team provides guidance and referral pathways.

Pain and symptom management

Your specialist may recommend:

  • Treatments to ease tenderness
  • Supportive therapies for mobility
  • Guidance on daily habits that reduce strain

Living with lipedema

Lipedema affects more than physical comfort. Many patients experience emotional or social challenges due to body changes and chronic pain. At Cornerstone Clinic, we approach treatment with compassion and clear communication to help patients feel supported and understood.

Lifestyle habits that may help include:

  • Consistent use of compression
  • Staying active with low impact exercises such as swimming or walking
  • Maintaining a gentle, anti inflammatory diet
  • Regular follow ups to assess progress

Small habits can make a meaningful difference in daily comfort.

Why lipedema treatment matters

Proper management helps:

  • Reduce pain and swelling
  • Improve mobility and endurance
  • Slow the progression of the condition
  • Enhance body confidence
  • Support long term limb health

Without early support, lipedema can progress to more severe stages that may affect walking, posture, and overall wellbeing.

 

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