Lipedema is a chronic condition characterized by the abnormal and symmetrical accumulation of fat buildup, particularly in the lower body (in the legs, arms, and lower trunk). It is often mistaken for obesity or simple weight gain, but lipedema has distinct symptoms that set it apart:
Lipedema, also known as a painful fat syndrome, is a chronic disease, which is most common in females. It is very poorly understood and commonly ignored.
Main symptoms of Lipedema include abnormal or excessive fatty tissue deposition in both lower torso, abdomen, hips, thighs, legs and occasionally arms. Feet and hands are usually spared and not affected by Lipedema. Symptoms also include easy bruising, increased sensitivity of skin to touch, cold feeling of skin and abnormally unpleasant feeling when somebody touches the affected areas, and pain. Pain may be accompanied by an unusual texture within the fat. Fat may feel like jelly or like rice, peas, or walnuts beneath the surface of the skin. Pain can also vary from none to severe, constant, come and go, or may only occur when the affected areas are touched, squeezed or pushed.
Lipedema is classified by 1. STAGE (severity) and 2. TYPES (body sites affected).
Lipedema is a progressive condition that worsens over time if left untreated. It is classified into different stages based on severity and types depending on which areas of the body are affected.
Lipedema is categorized into five different types, based on the areas of the body affected.
Lipedema may be found in women of all shapes, sizes, ages and ethnicities. Lipedema presents with a number of symptoms - the below is not an exhaustive list, and not all patients will display all symptoms.
There are two ways to treat lipedema: conservative (without surgery) and surgical (with liposuction). At Dr. Edouard Coeugniet's plastic surgery clinic, He specialize in surgical treatment. Liposuction is recommended when other measures are insufficient or if lipedema worsens. Excess fat is suctioned out using special cannulas, taking care to protect the lymphatic vessels.
Dr. Edouard Coeugniet uses a specialized liposuction technique to address lipedema. It is designed to relieve pressure and congestion caused by the buildup of fatty tissue without damaging nerves and blood vessels.
At Lipœdème Montréal, Lipedema treatment with liposuction is a specialized surgical approach led by Dr. Edouard Coeugniet, MSc., to address the unique challenges of Lipedema, a chronic condition causing painful, disproportionate fat accumulation. Unlike traditional liposuction, Dr. Coeugniet employs the most effective cutting-edge surgical techniques for lipedema includes Water-Assisted Liposuction or Body-Jet technology, And other advanced surgical techniques for lipedema liposuction. specifically designed to target fibrotic lipedema fat while preserving lymphatic function. This minimally invasive procedure reduces pain, improves mobility, and enhances body contour, offering patients lasting relief and improved quality of life. Dr. Coeugniet’s expertise ensures personalized treatment plans, combining liposuction with comprehensive care to achieve optimal outcomes for each patient. Lipedema treatment with liposuction removes this excess fat, relieving pain and mobility issues.
The aim of liposuction for lipoedema is to reduce limb bulk, reduce pain, and to improve mobility and functioning. Liposuction for chronic lipoedema can be done under general or local anaesthesia. Several small incisions are made in the limb.
The procedure can take 1 to 4 hours depending on the size of the treatment area. Immediately after liposuction, a compression bandage is applied to the limb to control any bleeding and to prevent postoperative oedema. Antibiotics are typically prescribed as prophylaxis after the operation. When the wounds are healed after the procedure, a custom-made compression garment is worn. This garment is typically revised and refitted multiple times during the first year until the oedema volume has been reduced as much as possible.
There are many advantages to lipedema treatment with liposuction, including:
Coverage of Lipedema Surgery in Quebec:
Lipedema surgery, such as liposuction specifically designed for lipedema fat, is generally not covered by the Québec Health Insurance Plan (RAMQ) because it is often classified as a cosmetic procedure rather than a medically necessary one. According to RAMQ guidelines, services rendered solely for cosmetic reasons are not covered unless a physician demonstrates medical necessity and obtains prior authorization from RAMQ. Examples of covered plastic surgeries include procedures like blepharoplasty or lipectomy when deemed essential, but lipedema-specific liposuction typically does not meet these criteria unless it addresses severe functional impairments (e.g., significant mobility issues or chronic pain) supported by medical documentation.
Given the lack of RAMQ coverage, patients seeking lipedema surgery in Quebec often need to cover expenses out-of-pocket or explore private insurance options that may partially reimburse costs. Consulting with a healthcare provider to explore all avenues, including potential medical necessity arguments, is advisable.
Dr. Edouard Coeugniet, MSc., a triple board-certified plastic surgeon, offering tailored surgical solutions for lipedema. Here’s how he can assist patients:
If you’re considering lipedema treatment with liposuction in Montreal, Quebec, Dr. Coeugniet provides expert care using advanced micro-cannula liposuction techniques. Alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with lipoedema with Dr. Coeugniet’s lipoedema procedure.
Contact Dr. Coeugniet today at (514) 736-7792 to schedule your consultation.At his Montreal / Westmount clinic, Dr. Coeugniet recognizes Lipedema as a distinct and often debilitating chronic disorder of the adipose (fat) and connective tissues, a condition observed almost exclusively in women. This unique pathology is characterized by a disproportionate and often painful accumulation of fat, primarily affecting the limbs – most commonly the legs and arms – with a striking symmetrical distribution that sets it apart from general weight gain. While less frequent, other areas of the body can also be affected.
A key characteristic Dr. Coeugniet observes is Lipedema's strong correlation with hormonal shifts. The condition frequently emerges or worsens during pivotal periods of hormonal change, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, underscoring the complex interplay of genetics and endocrinology in its development. Crucially, the abnormal fat of Lipedema is notoriously resistant to conventional weight loss methods like diet and exercise, a frustrating reality for many patients. While Lipedema is a lifelong condition for which there is no absolute cure, Dr. Coeugniet and his team are dedicated to providing comprehensive management strategies designed to significantly alleviate symptoms, improve comfort, and enhance quality of life. These strategies encompass both conservative therapies and, where appropriate, specialized surgical interventions tailored to the individual's needs.
Lipedema is often misdiagnosed as obesity, but several key differences make it an entirely different condition. For one, lipedema fat is usually nodular in appearance and develops in a disorderly fashion that feels bumpy. For someone with a more severe form, the fat develops disproportionately in large, unnaturally-shaped masses. Successful treatment involves much more than simply applying a weight-loss regime.
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Lipedema Treatment:
Lipedema is primarily recognized by fatty tissue accumulation, particularly in areas like the thighs, buttocks, calves, and upper arms. If the lower half of your body seems disproportionately heavier than the upper body, this could be a sign of lipedema.
The length of lipedema liposuction surgery depends on number of areas treated, the volume of fat removed and on use of ultrasonic device. It may take between two and four hours to perform the surgery.
Most lipedema patients require one to two surgeries to sufficiently treat the Lipedema affected areas. The number of surgeries is determined by the patient's body, the amount of excess fat that needs removal, and the type of anesthesia used.
Lipedema and lymphedema are separate conditions, but they can coexist in a condition called lipo-lymphedema. Lipedema is a condition characterized by abnormal fat accumulation, primarily in the legs and sometimes arms, that is resistant to diet and exercise. Whereas, lymphedema is a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid caused by a dysfunction or blockage in the lymphatic system.
Liposuction procedure, especially lipedema liposuction, offers a long-term solution and is considered an effective treatment for lipedema. However, in some cases, there might be a mild recurrence over time. Collaborating with Dr. Édouard Coeugniet will ensure you receive the best treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Lipedema liposuction typically yields very long-lasting or even permanent outcomes. Most patients remain satisfied with their refined contour for many years. It’s essential to maintain a healthy daily routine to preserve these results.
Almost all areas with lipedema tissue accumulation can benefit from liposuction. Whether it’s your arms or buttocks for contouring, liposuction can significantly reduce fatty tissue and enhance the affected area’s aesthetics. For example, in addition to those other areas, thigh liposuction is a common procedure to address lipedema on the outer thigh, significantly reducing fatty tissue in that area.
Liposuction is designed to permanently eliminate fat cells, alleviating lipedema’s side effects. Immediate improvements can be observed post-surgery, with treated areas visibly reduced.
The number of required sessions varies: some patients achieve the desired results in one, while others might need more. During your initial consultation, you’ll receive a custom-made treatment plan addressing your specific needs.
Long-Lasting Results: Unlike non-surgical treatments that require ongoing maintenance, the results of liposuction for lipedema are long-lasting. Once the fat cells are removed, they do not grow back, although patients are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent new fat accumulation.
Results showed significant post-operative improvements in spontaneous pain, edema, bruising, mobility, and quality of life among lipedema patients undergoing liposuction. However, over half of the patients still required conservative therapy after surgery.
While liposuction is often sought for lipedema treatment on its own, it can also be combined with other treatments. For some, it’s a chance to address excess skin in the lipedema-treated areas concurrently.
Others may see it as an opportunity to undergo additional enhancements, such as a tummy tuck, fat transfer, or breast surgery. If you’re considering integrating multiple treatments, talk to Dr. Édouard Coeugniet during your initial consultation.
Getting a procedure is a tremendous personal investment. However, it is not a decision that should be made lightly or in a hurry. Rushing might influence you to choose the wrong shape or go too big, which may impair you from running, jumping, or performing certain physical activities with ease. Go too small, and you may feel underwhelmed with your new look.
“ If you want to take the next step and learn more about your options, contact us online or call us. Dr. Edouard Coeugniet will help you determine whether treatment is right for you and, if so, which solution best suits your needs. ”
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