Patient testimonial
, following a second procedure
On the occasion of her second procedure at the Étoile Clinic, here is the testimony of this patient who underwent surgery.
Dr. Nicolas Zwillingershares his insights on the evolution of this condition.
Could you introduce yourself?
My name is Isabelle. I will be 58 at the end of August. I just hadWAL liposuction surgery for lipoedema.
You underwent surgery today for lipoedema performed by Dr. Zwillinger.
Could you describe your life with this condition that affects your legs?
This condition affected me for several years without me being able to identify it. I had my first surgery from my ankles to my knees at the end of March, and the second one today, July 5, from below my knees to my thighs.
Before this procedure, I had a lot of trouble walking for long periods of time. It became painful. My legs always felt very heavy. I was always in pain, even when I got dressed. I suffered for a long time.
Aesthetically, it wasn't pretty, but before aesthetics, it was comfort that I didn't have.
I really didn't feel good about my big legs.
When were you first able to use the term "lipedema"?
I consulted doctors and other specialists who couldn't tell me for sure that it was lipedema.
It was because I met Dr. Zwillinger, who informed me that it was indeed lipedema following various prescribed tests.
I was so relieved to finally have a definitive answer to the big question I had been asking myself.
Next, we proceeded to set the dates for the two procedures.
You have just undergone surgery at the Étoile Clinic under general anesthesia. Would you share your experience with us?
The first procedure was performed under spinal anesthesia, which went very well.
Today, it was done under general anesthesia, at my express request. I asked Dr. Gloulou, the anesthesiologist, during our preoperative consultation. Since I have a large herniated disc, I have always been afraid for my spine.
Nevertheless, the operation went very well. On the other hand, frankly, spinal surgery is more comfortable than general anesthesia. I was more tired today after being under general anesthesia than I was after spinal surgery during the first procedure.
How long after your surgery were you able to resume your normal life?
After 15 days, I went back to work. I made sure to rest and follow all the instructions given to me by Dr. Zwillinger and his assistants.
I walked regularly to work my legs and climbed a few small staircases to work my muscles. Finally, I was strong enough to start working.
At the end of the procedure, you were able to see your legs. What were your first thoughts?
Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised. Just before my first surgery, I took photos of my legs, and I remember that I had large poles.
To my surprise, even right after the procedure, I could already see a difference. I saw that I had smaller ankles and very toned calves, and I was pleasantly surprised. My legs were more defined—something I never thought I would see.
How did you feel when you came out of the operating room?
My thighs were very sore, but the nurse gave me painkillers and I've been feeling much better since then.
I'm just relieved that the operation is over. As I said, I felt more tired after the operation, but I'm still full of energy. Tired but happy.