My lipedema Journey
Puberty – the beginning
My legs began to change during puberty. Compared to my narrow waist, they seemed extreme, and I was ashamed. No diet or exercise seemed to help; nothing changed. I was repeatedly subjected to derisive comments that hurt me deeply.
I first heard about lipedema through a TV report. But I quickly dismissed the idea because so many sufferers reported severe pain, which I didn't experience. What I did feel, however, was heavy legs, tenderness, and bruising. At the time, I didn't realize that these were already typical symptoms.
The diagnosis "Lipoedema" 2020
With the official diagnosis, I resolved to do everything I could to avoid surgery. I read books, scoured forums, did personal training, practiced yoga, had Ayurvedic treatments, and changed my diet. I wore compression garments, exercised regularly, and it worked. Up to a point. Then everything stagnated.
What I only realize today: I was on the right path and just should have kept going.
Deep inside, I kept hearing this voice: “This has to be possible without surgery.” I wanted symptom-free legs and arms, and above all, I wanted to get rid of the excess fat.
When my Ayurvedic doctor suddenly passed away, I lost an important anchor, and with it, my hope of managing on my own. I turned to conventional medicine and ultimately decided on lipedema surgery.
The surgeries
The first lipedema surgery on my legs (circular thigh surgery) took place in September 2023, the second on my arms in February 2024. I canceled the third planned surgery because the pain was no longer bearable. Therefore, I only had partial surgery .
At first, everything seemed to be going well. But shortly after the leg surgery, I felt a strong tension in both knees that no one could explain or take seriously. After all, I'd just had surgery. After a year of healing, I was diagnosed with chondromalacia patellae , a softening of the cartilage behind the kneecap caused by the removal of fatty tissue. A complication that apparently occurs more frequently, as I now know. Frustrating, because I'd never had knee pain until the surgery.
Additionally, I noticed a distinct retraction of tissue on one side of my thigh, presumably a result of over-suction . I knew this could happen, but I hoped to be spared. Unfortunately, it was in vain.
After the year of healing, my body began to shift fat, and I suddenly gained weight around my stomach, something that had never been an issue before. I hadn't thought that possible either. It became clear to me that the surgery was purely symptomatic, not a solution to the root cause .
If you were to ask me today whether I would choose surgery again, my answer, after all my experiences, would be: No. I'll explain exactly why below.
I know that surgery can be a liberating experience for many and lead to success. Every body, every experience is different. And this is solely my experience.
My new path
In January 2025, I decided to embark on a new path. I focused on an anti-inflammatory diet, regular exercise, especially strength training, stress and sleep management, and conscious recovery.
Only the combination of all these pillars led to a real fight against the causes and that is exactly what I had not understood until now.
Because today I know: Lipedema is a chronic inflammatory reaction in the body. And it's precisely this inflammation that needs to be minimized. That's why I wouldn't have surgery today.
Since then, my body size has decreased significantly; I've lost 4 kg, and most importantly, I feel empowered again. I can finally take action, even if the path is sometimes very difficult.
Looking back, I wish I'd had this knowledge before my surgeries. Therefore, I'd like to pass it on to anyone who still doubts whether surgery might be beneficial. Often, you don't know, and no one can make the decision for you.
I'm happy for every single woman I can inspire with my story, because my lipedema journey isn't over yet. I'm ready to give my body everything it needs. After all, I have a lifetime to solidify my new habits.