The specific case of lipedema
s of the upper limbs
Lipedema corresponds to the uncontrolled development of fat cells in the lower limbs.
and above, this condition develops in approximately 11% of women.
Many women affected by lipedema complain of discomfort in their lower limbs, but some also experience discomfort in their upper limbs (arms and sometimes forearms). This is also referred to as upper limb lipedema.
Different types of lipedema
We distinguish between different types of lipedema depending on their location:
- Type 1 lipedema: Hips/buttocks
- Type 2 lipedema: From the buttocks to the knees (inclusive)
- Type 3 lipedema: Buttocks to ankles (inclusive)
- Type 4 lipedema: Arms + lower limbs
- Type 5 lipedema: Calves only
The symptoms of lipedema in the upper limbs are similar to those in the lower limbs: pain, heaviness, spontaneous bruising, and reduced range of motion. Women also complain of difficulty getting dressed.
Surgical treatment of lipedema of the upper limbs
In the case of a person affected in both the upper and lower limbs,Dr. Nicolas Zwillingergenerally recommends surgical treatment using WAL (Water-Assisted Liposuction) in three stages.
with a minimum interval of 3 months between each intervention.
- The lower part of the lower limbs
- The upper part of the lower limbs
- The upper limbs
It is often recommended to start with the lower body and then gradually move up, finishing with the upper limbs, but the patient's wishes come first. If the upper limbs are the most troublesome and/or painful area of the body, it is possible to start with this procedure.
The procedure for the upper limbs is broadly similar to that for the lower limbs, but spinal anesthesia cannot be used in this case.
The procedure lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the stage of lipedema and the volume of fat to be removed.
Postoperative care following WAL liposuction of the upper limbs
The postoperative period is the same as for lower limb procedures: there is discharge from the suction points for 2 to 5 days, as well as swelling in the areas where suction was performed, which may also extend to the hands and fingers.
Wearing apost-operative compression garmentis mandatory in this area. We recommend wearing compression sleeves (day and night for 15 days, then day or night for another 15 days).
Postoperative pain generally lasts for a shorter period than for the lower limbs. WAL liposuction of the upper limbs does not cause difficulty in walking, which makes the postoperative period easier. However, it is difficult to return to work before 10 to 15 days.
Following this surgery, which is a surgical treatment for lipedema of the upper limbs, results begin to appear as soon as the post-operative swelling subsides, i.e., two to three weeks after the procedure, but the final results are visible six months after the procedure.
We invite you to read thetestimonial of a patientwho underwent WAL liposuction of the upper limbs performed by Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger.
In some cases, excess skin associated with lipedema of the upper limbs may be observed, in which case an arm lift may be combined with WAL liposuction. The need for an arm lift is determined by the surgeon during the initial consultation, particularly when palpating the affected areas.
It is not common for lipedema to affect women's arms, but it should not be overlooked, as the symptoms can be very debilitating and interfere with daily life. One solution is WAL liposuction, the same technique used for surgical treatment of the lower limbs.