Medical Encyclopaedia › Lipoedema (short definition)
In brief: Lipoedema is a chronic disease of the subcutaneous fatty tissue that affects almost exclusively women. Typical is a symmetrical, disproportionate increase in fat on the legs and often also the arms, accompanied by pain, tenderness to pressure and a tendency to bruise.
Causes
The cause has not been conclusively clarified. A genetic predisposition and hormonal influences are suspected, as the disease often begins or worsens in phases of hormonal change such as puberty, pregnancy or the menopause.
Features and differentiation
The hands and feet are typically spared, so that a visible step can form at the ankles. The affected areas hardly respond to diet or exercise. It must be distinguished from obesity, in which the fat is more evenly distributed and usually not painful, and from lymphoedema, which is often asymmetrical and includes the feet or hands. However, lipoedema and obesity frequently occur together.
Conservative treatment
The basis is flat-knit medical compression garments, made to measure at a medical supply store, and exercise, especially in water. Manual lymphatic drainage can relieve symptoms if there is also fluid retention. Weight loss in overweight people improves symptoms and mobility. Psychosocial support can also be helpful.
Liposuction
If symptoms persist despite consistent conservative therapy, liposuction can reduce the diseased fatty tissue and relieve pain. As with any procedure, there are risks, such as infections, bruising, contour irregularities and thromboses; several sessions are usually necessary. Coverage of the costs by German statutory health insurance is subject to certain conditions.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Lymphoedema, Obesity, Compression stockings, Liposuction, Subcutis, Haematoma, Medical supply store, Cellulite
Further reading on Medizin Aktuell
Sources
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Phlebologie und Lymphologie (DGPL): S2k-Leitlinie Lipödem
- Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss (G-BA): Beschluss zur Liposuktion bei Lipödem
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.