Lipedema
Lipedema is a condition of abnormal fat distribution, almost always in women, causing painful symmetrical enlargement of the legs that does not respond to dieting.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Lipedema is a condition of abnormal fat distribution, almost always in women, causing symmetrical enlargement of the legs (and sometimes arms) that is painful and does not respond to dieting.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Lipedema is a disorder of adipose tissue characterised by symmetrical, disproportionate fat deposition in the lower limbs (sparing the feet), pain, easy bruising and a strong female predominance. It is frequently misdiagnosed as simple obesity. It does not respond to caloric restriction alone; management combines manual lymphatic drainage, compression, exercise and, in selected cases, liposuction. Weight loss reduces the obesity component but not the lipedema fat itself.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
A woman whose legs are out of proportion to her upper body, painful to touch and unresponsive to diet may have lipedema, not stubborn fat. Recognising it stops years of fruitless dieting and redirects treatment.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.
