Interview with Ms. H: WAL liposuction
At the Lipedema Clinic, each patient we treat has a unique story, often marked by years of discomfort, misunderstanding, and medical uncertainty.
Today, we share the testimony of one of them, who has chosen to recount her journey to enlighten those who are still hesitating to take the plunge.
Through her experience with WAL liposuction—a gentle, precise technique specially adapted to the treatment of lipedema—she gives us an authentic look at her journey, from the decision to the transformation. Her story highlights not only the physical benefits of the procedure, but also the emotional impact and the improved quality of life she has regained.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is J. I am 27 years old, I am a pharmacist, and since I was a teenager, I have wanted to have surgery on my legs and calves because I thought they were quite unusual in shape.I initially consulted several other doctors before taking the plunge and undergoing this WAL liposuction procedure.
Indeed, but I didn't feel comfortable taking the plunge when I didn't have a good rapport with the doctors I consulted before Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger.
How were you diagnosed?
I admit that I didn't know this for a very long time. It was while looking for a doctor that I stumbled across Dr. Zwillinger's website and the lipedema website. So I began to delve deeper into my research and medical tests (Doppler ultrasound, lymphoscintigraphy, etc.).
I then recognized myself during my appointment with Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger when he showed me photos of patients with lipedema. In my case, the peculiarity is that I don't necessarily have the symptoms and pain. However, this is quite understandable because I am at a fairly early stage. I often had bruises but no pain.
Despite everything, since I'm on my feet all day at the pharmacy, I sometimes had heavy legs.
During the first appointment, what did you decide with the doctor?
During my first consultation with Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger, I mentioned that I found the shape of my legs and thighs rather unusual and showed him my various test results.
Since I have a very early stage of lipedema, the doctor suggested performingWAL liposuctionon the following areas: ankles, calves, knees, and saddlebags in a single procedure.
Can you tell us more about how you prepared for the procedure?
First, I received all the administrative documents and my medical prescriptions from the secretary. I also had to make an appointment with Dr. Gloulou, the anesthesiologist at the clinic where I had my surgery. So I met with the anesthesiologist, who is just as fantastic as Dr. Zwillinger, very attentive and very kind.
Following my appointment with Dr. Gloulou, I decided to have the procedure done underspinal anesthesia. I didn't want to be completely sedated.
As I also have coagulation disorders, I underwent a number of additional tests to ensure that this operation was feasible and risk-free.
Tell us how your WAL liposuction procedure went...
Feeling a little stressed, I head to the Etoile clinic with my panty in my backpack.
I register at the admissions office, the staff are very friendly, and I go to my room.
The nurse gives me all the instructions. Charlotte, the doctor's assistant, accompanies me to the operating room. We reviewed the areas to be treated with Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger, and then the procedure began.
And how did the post-operative period go after your surgery?
Right after my procedure, I was in the recovery room for a few moments while the anesthesia wore off. Right after the procedure, I was in the recovery room for a few moments while the anesthesia wore off properly, then I stayed in my room at the clinic until I was able to get up with the help of the nurses. I went home at the end of the day.
It wasn't easy at first, but I was prepared. The first seven nights were very painful. During the day, it was better. I felt like I was getting strong electric shocks and tingling in my legs.During the day, the pain is mild to moderate.
During the first week, I had a lot of discharge and it was difficult to put on the compression stockings because of all the bruising, but after that it was much easier.
I administered myLovenoxinjections myself every day for 10 days.I tried to walk as much as possible.
The transition to showering was a little difficult; I fainted twice, but I can feel myself improving day by day.
Finally, you had your post-operative appointment with Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger.
I am writing this testimonial six weeks after my surgery.
After three weeks, I had already recovered well.
I returned to work exactly 19 days after my surgery. It's important to give yourself time to recover.
If I can give some important advice: You have to be patient, give yourself time, and be prepared for pain. There are painkillers that easily relieve the pain. You need to have people around you for the first few days.
The overall condition is improving very quickly, but patience is important to achieve results.