Common Symptoms and Characteristics
of Lipoedema
Lipoedema almost exclusively affects women. Women of all ages, sizes and ethnicities may be affected. Individuals may present with all or some of the signs and symptoms outlined below.
Symptoms include pain, heaviness and discomfort in the affected areas, which can often bruise easily. Fatigue, joint problems, swelling, reduced mobility, flat feet and gait problems may be experienced. The body disfigurement in Lipoedema can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, shame and embarrassment that can sometimes lead to anxiety, depression and hopelessness. People with Lipoedema may try numerous diets to try to change the size or shape of their limbs, and although normal weight loss can occur, it does not affect Lipoedema fat, which may lead to eating disorders, malnutrition and low energy.

- The onset of symptoms is usually during puberty, during/after pregnancy or menopause.
- Lipoedema presents symmetrically, involving both legs.
- The uneven, abnormal build-up of fatty tissue mainly involves the hips, buttocks and lower and upper limbs. The lower body is typically larger.
- Lipoedema causes significant disproportion of hip-to-waist ratio.
- In the early stages of Lipoedema, the upper body may remain slender as the lower body enlarges and fat accumulates over the hips, thighs and legs.
- In the later stages of Lipoedema, mobility is restricted and the condition becomes more chronic with associated joint problems. Skin changes can be seen. A secondary lymphoedema may also develop. The later stages may lead to further mobility problems or disability.
- People with Lipoedema may experience psychological distress, low self-esteem, anxiety and depression.
- Fatigue and pain/heaviness may be experienced in the affected areas.
- Affected areas might be hypersensitive to touch or pressure, and easily bruised.
- Weight-loss diets have little or no effect on Lipoedemic fat.
- Fat pads form above, inside and below the knees and the outer region of the upper thighs and sometimes the buttocks.
- Flat feet and gait can be affected and contribute further to mobility issues.
- Feet and hands are generally unaffected, though a ‘cuffing’ or ‘bracelet’ effect may be seen to the ankles or wrists.
- Skin may feel cool and have a dimpled or mattress appearance or nodular texture.
Although Lipoedema was first recognised in the 1940s, little research has been done into the disease. Its cause is unclear, but researchers agree that Lipoedema is almost certainly a genetic inherited condition because there is often, but not always, more than one family member affected. Mother, daughter, sister and grandmother may all be affected in one family. Research on the genetic links to Lipoedema are ongoing. There is a hormonal link to Lipoedema, particularly oestrogen, and symptoms usually start around:
- Puberty
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
Lipoedema is not caused by being overweight. Obesity is a different condition. You can be a healthy weight and still have Lipoedema.
Lipoedema almost exclusively affects people assigned female at birth, with only a few cases reported in men. Researchers have estimated that Lipoedema may affect approximately 10% of people worldwide. Lipoedema can also be spelled either Lipodema or Lipedema.
There is currently no cure for Lipoedema – there are conservative (non-surgical) and surgical treatments, however, that can help to manage the symptoms.
Lipoedema is more likely in people:
- who are assigned female at birth
- who have a family history of Lipoedema
It is possible to have both Lipoedema and oedema (swelling)?
Oedema is swelling caused by excess fluid in the tissues. There are various things that can cause oedema in the legs and feet – the NHS website lists being overweight or pregnant, as well standing or sitting in one position for too long without moving, eating too much salty food and an injury such as a strain are among the common causes. Some medication can cause side effects of oedema. It’s important to get any swelling of the ankles or legs assessed by a GP, nurse or medic. They may want to undertake further investigations to assess the cause of the swelling. Swelling can be caused by Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT); cellulitis (to read more about this infection, see our skincare advice for people with Lipoedema); or a decline in cardiac or kidney function. Secondary lymphoedema affecting the legs may also be a cause. If necessary, your GP may refer you to another specialist service such as vascular or cardiology for example.
Many people with oedema will report that their leg swelling does increase during the day and is worse by the end of the day or if sitting for long periods. Once the doctor has ruled out any serious underlying conditions, there are additional measures that can also ease oedema symptoms. Elevating your legs where possible, wearing properly fitted compression garments, and incorporating activity and exercise into your day to avoid being sedentary can all make a difference. Inflammation and diet may be a contributory factor. Dr Gabriele Faerber, one of the authors of the German Guidelines for Lipedema, says that many of her patients report a reduction in swelling as a result of eating a ketogenic diet that is high in protein.