Recognizing Lipedema Symptoms – the first step to a correct diagnosis

The first symptoms of lipedema include disproportionate fat accumulation on the legs or arms, feelings of tension, pressure sensitivity, and an increased tendency to bruise – often despite normal body weight. Many affected individuals report that diets have no effect on the affected areas. First signs usually appear during hormonal changes such as puberty or pregnancy.

Typical for lipedema is the symmetrical increase of painful, pressure-sensitive fatty tissue – especially on the legs, hips, and sometimes arms. Hands and feet remain unaffected. Additionally, feelings of tension, easy bruising, and a strong reaction to pressure or strain occur. The appearance is clearly distinguishable from classic overweight.

The pain in lipedema primarily affects the involved fat areas – typically thighs, lower legs, and upper arms. The pain is usually dull, tension-like, or pressure-induced. Even light touch or movement can be uncomfortable. The pain sensation is independent of the external appearance and can be pronounced even in early stages.

Without targeted treatment, lipedema usually progresses slowly but steadily – with increasing discomfort, tissue proliferation, and limitations in daily life. Early measures such as targeted exercise, compression, lymphatic drainage, or liposuction can significantly slow down or stop the progression. At BONITAS, we rely on individual strategies for each stage of the disease.

Yes – in about 30% of affected individuals, lipedema also affects the upper arms, usually in addition to the legs. Typical are painful fat pads on the inner side of the arms, often with a feeling of tension and an increased tendency to bruise. Combined treatment of arms and legs is possible at BONITAS – considering medical and aesthetic criteria.