Lipedema: Understanding and Treating a Commonly Misdiagnosed Condition in Dubai
Introduction
Lipedema is a chronic condition that affects the way fat is distributed under the skin, most commonly in the legs and sometimes the arms. It is not caused by obesity or lifestyle, but by underlying changes in fat tissue and the lymphatic system. Unfortunately, lipedema is often misunderstood or mistaken for simple weight gain, leading many patients to suffer in silence for years without proper diagnosis.
As a UK-trained Consultant Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon with international experience, I, Dr. Soroush Sohrabi, provide specialised evaluation and treatment for patients with lipedema in Dubai. My aim is to help patients achieve an accurate diagnosis, improve mobility, reduce symptoms, and enhance their quality of life.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a disorder of fat metabolism that leads to the symmetrical build-up of fat and fluid in the legs (and sometimes arms). Unlike ordinary fat, lipedema tissue is resistant to diet and exercise. It can cause pain, heaviness, swelling, and easy bruising.
The condition primarily affects women and is believed to be influenced by hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause).
Signs and Symptoms of Lipedema
Patients often notice changes that are very different from simple weight gain:
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Symmetrical enlargement of both legs, sparing the feet (a key sign that distinguishes lipedema from lymphedema).
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Painful, tender fat that is sensitive to touch or pressure.
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Heaviness and aching in the legs, especially after standing or walking.
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Easy bruising with minimal trauma.
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Progressive worsening over time, even with healthy lifestyle habits.
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Disproportionate body shape, where the lower half is much larger than the upper body.
In advanced cases, lipedema may progress to lipo-lymphedema, where swelling becomes severe due to lymphatic involvement.
Stages of Lipedema
Lipedema is often classified into stages based on severity:
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Stage 1: Smooth skin, but thickened fat layer. Patients often notice tenderness and easy bruising.
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Stage 2: Uneven, nodular skin surface with larger fat deposits.
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Stage 3: Large, irregular overhangs of tissue causing mobility issues.
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Stage 4: Lipedema combined with lymphedema (lipo-lymphedema).
Early recognition and treatment can slow progression and prevent complications.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of lipedema remains unclear, but factors include:
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Genetics: Runs strongly in families.
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Hormonal influence: Puberty, pregnancy, and menopause often trigger or worsen symptoms.
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Gender: Almost exclusively affects women.
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Co-existing vascular disease: Lipedema can overlap with venous insufficiency or lymphedema.
Why Lipedema Is Often Misdiagnosed
Because lipedema looks like obesity, many patients are told to “lose weight.” However, this is misleading and frustrating, since lipedema tissue does not respond to diet or exercise in the same way as normal fat.
Accurate diagnosis requires awareness and experience. I use clinical evaluation and vascular imaging (such as venous ultrasound and lymphatic assessment) to distinguish lipedema from lymphedema, venous insufficiency, and obesity
Complications of Untreated Lipedema
If untreated, lipedema can lead to:
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Severe mobility restrictions
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Chronic pain and psychological distress
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Development of secondary lymphedema (lipo-lymphedema)
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Worsening venous insufficiency
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Reduced quality of life
Treatment Options in Dubai
1. Conservative Therapy
Conservative management helps control symptoms but does not cure lipedema. It includes:
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Compression garments to reduce swelling and pain.
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Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) by trained therapists.
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Exercise and physiotherapy, especially low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and cycling.
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Nutritional support to maintain healthy weight and reduce inflammation.
2. Liposuction (Specialised for Lipedema)
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Provides long-term relief from pain, heaviness, and swelling.
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Improves mobility and body contour.
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Must be performed by specialists familiar with vascular and lymphatic preservation.
3. Combined Treatment for Co-existing Vascular Disease
Since lipedema can overlap with venous insufficiency, I assess patients with Doppler ultrasound. If varicose veins or venous reflux are present, treating these can improve outcomes when combined with lipedema management.
Living With Lipedema
Lipedema is a chronic but manageable condition. With the right diagnosis and tailored treatment, most patients see significant improvement in symptoms, confidence, and quality of life.
In Dubai, I provide individualised care plans that combine conservative therapy, vascular evaluation, and — where appropriate — surgical treatment options
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Lipedema is a medical condition affecting fat tissue distribution, resistant to diet and exercise.
Although currently, there is no cure, however, conservative therapies help manage symptoms, while liposuction is the only method shown to permanently reduce abnormal fat.
Diagnosis is made clinically by a specialist, supported by imaging to exclude venous or lymphatic disease.
Coverage varies. Conservative treatments are often supported, but surgical treatment may depend on medical necessity approval
Properly performed liposuction significantly reduces symptoms long-term, though progression in untreated areas may still occur.
Why Choose Dr. Soroush Sohrabi for Lipedema Care in Dubai?
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International expertise: UK training with fellowships in the US and Australia.
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Specialised knowledge: Experience in managing complex vascular and lymphatic conditions.
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Patient-centred care: I personally assess and guide each patient through their treatment journey.
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Advanced techniques: Access to modern, minimally invasive vascular and lymphatic procedures.
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Trusted by patients: Consistently excellent reviews for compassionate care and results.