Testimonial from a patient who underwent two-stage surgery using WAL liposuction
Through this testimony, this patient who underwent two stages of lipoedema surgery shares her experience with us without holding back.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Beatrice, I am 46 years old, I live in Lille, and I am an administrative manager in a small business.
When did you realize that something was wrong with your legs?
Since I was a teenager, I've always had what people call "tree trunk legs," very large legs.
I was always told that there was nothing that could be done until I came across a television program featuring a famous YouTuber, and when I saw her legs, I realized she had the same legs as me.
I have high hopes that there may still be something that can be done, and I have started researching this condition because lipedema is indeed a medical condition.
Did you find Dr. Zwillinger's name directly?
My initial research led me to Germany because, after watching the program, I hadn't heard of any surgeons in Paris. I consulted in Germany but did not follow up because of the language barrier and because I was not yet comfortable or ready to undergo surgery abroad. A year passed, and when I resumed my research, I came acrossDr. Nicolas Zwillinger's practice.
When did your first consultation take place?
In July 2020, I went out and immediately scheduled the first procedure. It was becoming too burdensome and too debilitating. I knew I had to do something.
What were your daily symptoms?
Heavy, painful legs, unable to use an epilator, the slightest bump is immediately very painful. It becomes debilitating even for walking. I walk a lot, but I still have to lift my legs, which are heavy.
It's difficultto put on shoes and clothes. You can't wear whatever pants you want. Skiing is impossible, cycling is difficult. Everything becomes complicated. It's a progressive disease, and it's important to know that.
Were you operated on in two stages by Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger?
Yes, the first surgery in October 2020 from the ankle to the knee, second surgery in October 2021 from the knee to the upper thighs.
Can you describe the day and the post-operative period following the first operation?
The first procedure, thepost-operative period, is painful, so it's important to be aware of that. It's not an operation to be taken lightly. You just have to be patient and understand that you won't feel better overnight.
When Dr. Nicolas Zwillinger says it's between 4 and 6 months, that's exactly right!
It's not painful for 4 to 6 months, but we'll wear compression stockings for 6 months and have physical therapy sessions twice a week. But the great thing is that you see results quickly, which encourages you to keep going. Honestly, after the first procedure, I told myself I wouldn't do the second one, but after 6 months, given the results, we're going back right away to do the second one.
It's so comfortable and you feel so much better afterward.
How did the second procedure go compared to the first?
The thigh procedure was less painful. The amount of fat removed left me feeling extremely tired. I also returned to work more quickly (15 days off for the first procedure and 10 days for the second). You just have to push through, have good support, and ultimately, things get better every day. And when you're feeling down, you look in the mirror and you're good to go.
It has now been a month since my second operation. The hardest part is behind me, and I just have a little swelling left. I will wear my compression stockings until spring, and I advise women to do so during the winter.