Lipolymphedema – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Overview

A lipolymphedema develops when existing lipedema further obstructs lymphatic flow, leading to secondary lymphedema. This results in painful swelling, a feeling of tightness, and visible fluid retention. This guide clearly explains how a lipolymphedema develops, what the typical symptoms are, and which treatment options are truly effective.


What is lipolymphedema?

 Lipolymphedema is a combination of lipedema and lymphedema. In lipedema, abnormal fatty tissue proliferates – usually in the legs or arms. If this overloads or compresses the lymphatic system, the lymph fluid can no longer drain properly. This results in lymphatic congestion, leading to significant swelling.


 Important scientific background: Studies show that chronic pressure from enlarged fat lobes leads to microscopic damage to the lymphatic vessels – a crucial mechanism for the development of lymphedema in the context of lipedema.

Lipolymphedema often develops gradually, but is highly treatable if detected early. Those who take symptoms seriously, consult a specialist promptly, and adhere to consistent treatment can significantly slow the progression of the disease and substantially improve their quality of life.

Causes – How does lipolymphedema develop?

The main cause is progressive lipedema, which increasingly burdens the lymphatic system. Other triggers can include:

  • Infections
  • Surgery or radiation therapy
  • Obesity
  • Injuries to the lymphatic vessels
  • chronic inflammation

Not every woman with lipedema automatically develops lymphedema. The earlier lipedema is diagnosed and treated, the lower the risk of developing lipolymphedema.



Symptoms – How to recognize lipolymphedema

Symptoms of lipedema

  • Symmetrical swelling on legs or arms
  • Pressure pain
  • heavy legs
  • Tendency to bruising
  • Friction problems and skin changes


Symptoms of lymphedema

  • Swelling due to fluid retention
  • Skin feels firmer or "rubbery".
  • Severe swelling of the back of the foot or hand
  • Stemmer sign often positive


Symptoms of the mixed form (lipolymphedema)

  • Swelling increases significantly throughout the day.
  • Feeling of tension, feeling of heat, pain
  • Compression stockings provide short-term relief.
  • Legs feel heavier and harder than in pure lipedema.

Treatment – What really helps with lipolymphedema?

Lipolymphedema requires a combined therapy of lymphatic drainage and lipedema management. This includes:


Conservative therapy

  • Manual lymphatic drainage
  • Compression garments (circular or flat knit)
  • Exercise therapy (e.g. aqua fitness, cycling, swimming)
  • Weight stabilization
  • Decongestive diet
  • Skin care for infection prevention

These measures alleviate the symptoms, but do not reduce the pathological fatty tissue.


Surgical therapy: Liposuction for lipedema

If lipedema is the primary cause of lymphatic congestion, liposuction can relieve the tissue. Removing the abnormal fat cells can:

  • relieve the lymphatic vessels
  • reduce pain
  • slowing the progression of lipolymphedema
  • improve body proportions

Important: If the lymphatic system is already severely damaged, it still needs lymph therapy.


What can those affected do themselves?

To improve symptoms and prevent relapses:

  • Wear compression consistently
  • regular exercise
  • Skin care and infection prevention
  • Avoid heat (sauna, strong sun)
  • anti-inflammatory diet
  • Reduce stress
  • Exchange with other affected individuals (community, self-help groups)