Lipidema

Lipidema is a medical condition that causes abnormal fat accumulation, mainly in the legs, hips, and sometimes the arms — often giving a disproportionate appearance where the lower body is much larger than the upper body. It is not simple obesity; the fat is often painful, bruises easily, and does not respond well to diet and exercise alone.

Lipidema is a chronic disorder of adipose tissue characterised by symmetrical, bilateral enlargement of the lower extremities (and sometimes upper extremities) due to abnormal accumulation of subcutaneous fat, sparing the hands and feet. It occurs almost exclusively in women, is hormonally triggered (puberty, pregnancy, menopause), and is associated with pain, easy bruising, and oedema. Unlike lymphoedema, the swelling is non-pitting, and unlike obesity, the fat is resistant to caloric restriction. Prevalence estimates range from 6–11% of the female population.

Lipidema is often misdiagnosed as simple obesity, leaving patients frustrated when diet and exercise fail to reduce the affected areas. At Accord Medical, Dr Joseph Wang provides accurate diagnosis and targeted management — which may include compression therapy, specialised nutrition, and in select cases, liposuction referral.