Lipedema is a chronic disorder of fat distribution that typically affects women. It is characterised by the disproportionate deposition of fatty tissue on the legs, arms \u2013 and frequently around the knees as well. In the case of the knees, lipedema<\/a> leads not only to aesthetic changes but often also to painful limitations when walking or standing.<\/p><\/a><\/a><\/a>\n <\/p>\n Many of those affected initially suspect weight gain or a lack of exercise to be the cause of the \u201cfat at the knee\u201d. With lipedema, however, this is a misconception. It is not normal fat, but rather pathologically altered tissue. Hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause) are considered common triggers. Genetic factors also play a role.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n A key identifying feature is the symmetrical swelling of the inner sides of the knees, which changes noticeably neither through exercise nor through diets. Further signs include:<\/p>\n Pressure pain or tenderness to touch<\/p>\n<\/li>\n A feeling of tightness in the knees after prolonged standing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Bruising without an identifiable cause<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Cool patches of skin around the knee<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The affected tissue often feels soft and nodular, and in some cases a palpable transition to normal skin develops.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Lipedema at the knee should be clearly distinguished from being overweight, from lymphedema, and from lipohypertrophy. Unlike pure fatty tissue, lipedema persists despite a caloric deficit. Fluid retention, such as occurs with lymphedema, can also be differentiated by tests such as the Stemmer sign.<\/p>\n An experienced specialist can quickly arrive at an initial diagnosis based on palpation findings and the patient history.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The pain arises from the inflammatory irritation of the altered fatty tissue as well as from pressure on the surrounding structures. Symptoms appear in particular during movement or under load:<\/p>\n Climbing stairs becomes difficult<\/p>\n<\/li>\n The knees feel \u201cstiff\u201d or blocked<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pressure on the inner side of the knee is uncomfortable<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n This pain symptomatology is not a sign of \u201cimagination\u201d, but a clear indication of the progressive strain caused by the pathological tissue.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In early stages, progression can be slowed by conservative methods:<\/p>\n Compression stockings or bandages<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Manual lymphatic drainage<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Movement therapy with a focus on joint-friendly activity<\/p>\n<\/li>\n An anti-inflammatory diet<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n While these measures do not lead to regression of the lipedema, they relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In advanced lipedema in the knee region, liposuction (fat removal) is currently the only treatment known to provide lasting effect. In this procedure, the pathological tissue is removed in a targeted manner \u2013 particularly on the inner side of the knee, where many of those affected are especially restricted.<\/p>\n One advantage: thanks to modern techniques such as PAL (Power Assisted Liposuction) and WAL (water-jet-assisted liposuction<\/a>), the procedure is particularly gentle. It reduces not only the volume but also the intensity of pain considerably. A subsequent recovery phase with compression is essential for the outcome.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The earlier lipedema is recognised, the better it can be treated. If you regularly experience a feeling of pressure, tightness, or pain around the knee, it is worth arranging an appointment at a specialised practice. Particularly in the region of the inner side of the knee, the risk of movement restrictions is high \u2013 acting early helps protect against later complications.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n At Bonitas<\/b><\/span>, we combine medical precision with a clear understanding of the everyday realities of our patients\u2019 lives. Our expertise in the area of lipedema of the leg<\/b><\/span><\/a> allows for well-founded diagnostics and a targeted therapy \u2013 from conservative approaches to professional liposuction for lipedema.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Medically reviewed and written by:<\/strong>2. Typical causes of fat accumulation at the knee<\/b><\/h2>\n
3. How can lipedema on the inner side of the knee be recognised?<\/b><\/h2>\n
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4. Distinguishing it from other fat distributions<\/b><\/h2>\n
5. Knee pain caused by lipedema \u2013 why?<\/b><\/h2>\n
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6. Options for conservative treatment<\/b><\/h2>\n
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7. Liposuction as a lasting solution<\/b><\/h2>\n
8. When should you take action?<\/b><\/h2>\n
9. FAQ: Lipedema of the Knee<\/h2>\n\n\n
Alejandro Mart\u00ed \u2013 Board-certified Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery (DE & ES)
Last reviewed: April 2026<\/em><\/p><\/div>\nReferences & Scientific Sources<\/h3>