Science & Research:Basics of our lipedema therapy
Progress through research: Our commitment at the LipoZentrum
Scientific progress is a central pillar of sustainable lipedema treatment. At the LipoZentrum, clinical practice is closely linked to structured research and continuous outcome evaluation, based on standardized protocols, long-term clinical observation and internationally recognised medical classifications. The LipoZentrum is committed to intensive research into lipedema, with particular attention given not only to surgical outcomes, but also to functional, psychological and environmental factors influencing lipedema therapy.
WHO and lipedema disease
The World Health Organization (WHO) has included lipedema as a disease in its international classification; it is listed in the currently valid ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems) from E88.20 (lipedema stage I) to E88.28 (other or unspecified lipedema).
Treatment standards
Dr. Heck's lipedema surgery
The publication of the surgical technique developed by Dr. Heck and the development of a therapy protocol, the so-called Heck Protocol. The shortened protocol and text as well as a short summary of our surgical standards can be found here.
Circulatory reactions after water jet assisted liposuction for lipedema
In the period from January 1, 2012 to March 31, 2018, 1000 operations were re-examined with regard to the postoperative circulatory reaction. Patients in lipedema stages I-III were treated. Lipo-decompression was carried out according to a standardized surgical protocol and the evaluation was based on an analogue scale.
Scientific Collaboration and Professional Exchange
Clinical research in lipedema therapy does not take place in isolation. The scientific work at the LipoZentrum is accompanied by continuous professional exchange with physicians from related disciplines, including surgery, lymphology, orthopaedics and conservative therapy. This interdisciplinary collaboration supports critical evaluation of treatment standards and contributes to the ongoing refinement of lipedema treatment protocols based on shared clinical experience and evidence-based discussion.
FAQ – Scientific Aspects of Lipedema Therapy
How is clinical research integrated into daily lipedema treatment?
Clinical observations and postoperative outcomes are continuously evaluated and systematically incorporated into existing treatment protocols. This ensures that surgical standards evolve based on real-world data.
Why is standardisation important in lipedema therapy research?
Standardised protocols allow reliable comparison of outcomes and support reproducibility of results, which is essential for meaningful scientific evaluation and international exchange.
What role does the WHO classification play in clinical research?
The WHO ICD classification provides a recognised medical framework for diagnosis, documentation and scientific comparability, forming an essential basis for structured research in lipedema.
Learn More About the Science Behind Lipedema Therapy
If you would like to learn more about the scientific principles, clinical data and research-driven standards underlying modern lipedema therapy, we invite you to explore our publications and treatment concepts in greater detail.





