{"id":4460,"date":"2025-09-02T10:38:44","date_gmt":"2025-09-02T10:38:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/preguntas-frecuentes-lipedema\/"},"modified":"2026-08-22T00:07:12","modified_gmt":"2026-08-22T00:07:12","slug":"lipedema-faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/lipedema-faq\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQs about Lipedema"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"4460\" class=\"elementor elementor-4460\" data-elementor-settings=\"{&quot;ha_cmc_init_switcher&quot;:&quot;no&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-5953c0c elementor-section-full_width elementor-section-stretched elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"5953c0c\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;stretch_section&quot;:&quot;section-stretched&quot;,&quot;_ha_eqh_enable&quot;:false}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-7e45e45\" data-id=\"7e45e45\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dd02378 elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"dd02378\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<!--\r\n=====================================================================\r\n\/en\/lipedema-faq\/  -  FAQ REWRITTEN (ALL IN ONE)  -  EN\r\nPaste into a block that PROCESSES shortcodes. JSON-LD at the end, EN form 3655.\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\nWHY IT IS REWRITTEN (verified 2026-08-22 against the live HTML)\r\n1. The page has NO H1. None. The first heading is an H2 (\"We answer the most\r\n   frequently asked questions about lipedema\") and the 14 questions are H3.\r\n   Same hole we closed on the medical team page.\r\n2. 12 of the 14 questions are about SURGERY. It is a FAQ that only answers the\r\n   very end of the funnel, while the question-shaped demand sits at the start.\r\n3. The published schema carries junk: answer 5 begins with \"Content H\". It slipped\r\n   in when the page was built and it is IN PRODUCTION inside the JSON-LD.\r\n4. \"What is lipedema and how is it treated?\" -> the ES twin asks \"how is it\r\n   cured\", which breaks rule 2 of the client sheet (lipedema is NOT cured), and\r\n   in both languages the answer does not address the question asked.\r\n5. The diet answer claimed gluten and dairy \"contribute to inflammation\". There\r\n   is no evidence for that, and it clashes with Rec 10.2 of the S2k guideline,\r\n   which requires saying that with associated excess weight, losing weight DOES\r\n   reduce leg volume. Rewritten separating the two things.\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\nWHAT WAS DONE\r\n- H1 with the keyword, a block index and 6 thematic blocks: about, differences,\r\n  diagnosis, conservative, surgery and clinic. 49 questions.\r\n- The 14 originals are kept (corrected), nothing the client already answered is\r\n  thrown away: 12 sit in the surgery block and 2 are relocated.\r\n- The rest are chosen from real GSC demand over 180 days plus the gaps the top-10\r\n  competitors cover and this page did not (specific diet, time off work, heat,\r\n  mental health). EN-specific weight: \"lipedema doctor\", \"lipedema specialist\",\r\n  \"how to know if you have lipedema\", \"is lipedema genetic\", \"lipedema pain\",\r\n  \"best treatment for lipedema\" and the medical-tourism cluster.\r\n- ANTI-CANNIBALISATION: every answer is short and links to the page that owns the\r\n  topic. The cellulite comparison is deliberately NOT developed here (that is\r\n  \/en\/difference-lipedema-cellulite\/, which carries the bulk of the EN\r\n  impressions): one short answer and a link.\r\n- NO PRICES: the cost question exists because the demand exists, and it is\r\n  answered by explaining what it depends on and that the quote is given in writing.\r\n- The visible HTML and the JSON-LD are generated from the SAME source, so they\r\n  cannot drift apart again as they did in the published version.\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\nDIFFERENCES FROM THE ES VERSION (this is transcreation, not translation)\r\n- \"lipoedema\" (British spelling) is stated explicitly in the first answer: the EN\r\n  page has to be findable under both spellings.\r\n- Valencia is always \"Valencia, Spain\", with the international airport mentioned,\r\n  and the travel questions (in person, single trip, language) get their own block\r\n  entries. There is no \/en\/lipedema-valencia\/ page (that URL 301s to the ES one),\r\n  so nothing links there: the local answer links to the method instead.\r\n- No question about the Spanish \"baja laboral\" as an entitlement; it becomes\r\n  \"time off work\", which is what an international patient is actually asking.\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\nTEST WIDGET (pasted verbatim, untouched)\r\n  It is the EN master component \"calculadora test EN.txt\", with its own form\r\n  (id 5860). NOTE FROM THE COMPONENT ITSELF: form 5860 renders in Spanish\r\n  because it is the ES production form. To show it in English, translate 5860 via\r\n  WPML string translation or duplicate it as an EN form and swap the id.\r\n  This is worth resolving before publishing: an English page whose form is in\r\n  Spanish loses leads from exactly the audience this page is for.\r\n  The page ends up with TWO forms, 5860 (test) and 3655 (closing). Same pattern\r\n  as \/en\/lipedema-treatment\/.\r\n-----------------------------------------------------------------\r\nON-PAGE SEO (Rank Math):\r\n  Title: Lipedema FAQ: 49 questions answered | Lipedema Advanced Care\r\n  Slug:  en\/lipedema-faq  (UNCHANGED)\r\n  Meta:  Can lipedema be cured? Does it hurt? Is it hereditary? 49 questions on\r\n         lipedema answered by the medical team in Valencia, Spain.\r\n  H1:    Frequently asked questions about lipedema (the hero one)\r\nFORM (3655): WPForms confirmation redirect -> \/en\/thank-you\/ (verified live, 200)\r\n=====================================================================\r\n-->\r\n\r\n<style>\r\n.pflac-hero,.pflac-section{font-family:inherit;}\r\n.pflac-container{max-width:1180px;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;}\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-prose{max-width:820px;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;}\r\n\r\n\/* HERO *\/\r\n.pflac-hero{position:relative;min-height:58vh;display:flex;align-items:center;overflow:hidden;\r\n  background-image:url('https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dr-alexo-carballeira-consulta-lipedema-marques-del-turia.jpg');\r\n  background-size:cover;background-position:70% center;background-repeat:no-repeat;}\r\n.pflac-hero::before{content:\"\";position:absolute;inset:0;z-index:1;\r\n  background:linear-gradient(90deg, rgba(5,8,9,.96) 0%, rgba(5,8,9,.92) 28%, rgba(5,8,9,.70) 48%, rgba(5,8,9,.28) 72%, rgba(5,8,9,.10) 100%),linear-gradient(180deg, rgba(0,0,0,.20) 0%, rgba(0,0,0,.05) 40%, rgba(0,0,0,.45) 100%);}\r\n.pflac-hero::after{content:\"\";position:absolute;inset:0;z-index:2;background:radial-gradient(circle at 22% 35%, rgba(216,189,132,.12), transparent 35%);}\r\n.pflac-hero-inner{position:relative;z-index:3;width:100%;max-width:1240px;margin:0 auto;padding:100px 30px 74px;}\r\n.pflac-hero-content{max-width:760px;}\r\n.pflac-kicker{display:inline-block;margin-bottom:22px;padding:10px 18px;border:1px solid rgba(216,189,132,.45);color:#d8bd84;font-size:12px;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:.24em;text-transform:uppercase;background:rgba(255,255,255,.04);backdrop-filter:blur(10px);}\r\n.pflac-hero h1{margin:0 0 22px;color:#fff;font-size:clamp(36px,4.4vw,58px);font-weight:300;line-height:1.05;letter-spacing:-.045em;}\r\n.pflac-hero h1 span{display:block;color:#d8bd84;font-weight:500;}\r\n.pflac-hero-text{max-width:660px;margin:0 0 28px;color:rgba(255,255,255,.85);font-size:clamp(17px,1.35vw,21px);line-height:1.8;font-weight:300;}\r\n.pflac-hero-links{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:10px;margin-bottom:32px;}\r\n.pflac-hero-links a{padding:10px 16px;border-radius:999px;border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.22);color:#fff;text-decoration:none;font-size:13px;background:rgba(255,255,255,.04);transition:.25s;}\r\n.pflac-hero-links a:hover{border-color:#d8bd84;color:#d8bd84;}\r\n.pflac-actions{display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:15px;}\r\n.pflac-btn-primary,.pflac-btn-secondary{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;min-height:54px;padding:15px 28px;border-radius:999px;text-decoration:none;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.12em;font-size:13px;font-weight:700;transition:.25s;}\r\n.pflac-btn-primary{background:#00B0F0;border:1px solid #00B0F0;color:#0D3544;}\r\n.pflac-btn-primary:hover{background:#fff;border-color:#fff;color:#0D3544;}\r\n.pflac-btn-secondary{color:#fff;border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.35);background:rgba(255,255,255,.04);}\r\n.pflac-btn-secondary:hover{border-color:#d8bd84;color:#d8bd84;}\r\n\r\n\/* SECTIONS *\/\r\n.pflac-section{padding:76px 24px;background:#f8f6f1;}\r\n.pflac-section.white{background:#fff;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark{background:#0d0d0d;color:#fff;}\r\n.pflac-eyebrow{color:#b4975f;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.22em;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:14px;}\r\n.pflac-section h2{margin:0 0 18px;color:#111;font-size:clamp(27px,3.2vw,42px);line-height:1.12;letter-spacing:-.03em;font-weight:400;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark h2{color:#fff;}\r\n.pflac-section h2 span{color:#b4975f;}\r\n.pflac-section h3{color:#111;font-size:21px;font-weight:600;margin:26px 0 12px;line-height:1.3;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark h3{color:#d8bd84;}\r\n.pflac-section p{color:#3b3b3b;font-size:17px;line-height:1.9;margin:0 0 18px;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark p{color:rgba(255,255,255,.76);}\r\n.pflac-section ul{margin:0 0 18px;padding-left:20px;color:#3b3b3b;line-height:1.85;font-size:16.5px;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark ul{color:rgba(255,255,255,.76);}\r\n.pflac-section li{margin-bottom:9px;}\r\n.pflac-section li strong,.pflac-section p strong{color:#111;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark li strong,.pflac-section.dark p strong{color:#fff;}\r\n.pflac-link{color:#9b7b3d;font-weight:700;text-decoration:none;border-bottom:1px solid rgba(155,123,61,.35);}\r\n.pflac-link:hover{border-bottom-color:#9b7b3d;}\r\n.pflac-section.dark .pflac-link{color:#d8bd84;border-bottom-color:rgba(216,189,132,.5);}\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-lead{max-width:900px;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;text-align:center;}\r\n\r\n\/* TABLA *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-tablewrap{overflow-x:auto;max-width:980px;margin:26px auto 6px auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;}\r\n.pflac-table{width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;background:#fff;border:1px solid rgba(180,151,95,.22);box-shadow:0 18px 50px rgba(0,0,0,.045);font-size:15px;min-width:640px;}\r\n.pflac-table th,.pflac-table td{padding:13px 16px;text-align:left;border-bottom:1px solid #eee;vertical-align:top;line-height:1.6;}\r\n.pflac-table th{background:#0D3544;color:#fff;font-weight:700;font-size:12.5px;letter-spacing:.03em;text-transform:uppercase;}\r\n.pflac-table td:first-child{font-weight:700;color:#111;}\r\n.pflac-table tr:last-child td{border-bottom:none;}\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-tnote{max-width:980px;margin:10px auto 0 auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;color:#5a727d;font-size:14px;}\r\n.pflac-tnote a{color:#9b7b3d;font-weight:700;text-decoration:none;}\r\n\r\n\/* PASOS DEL PROTOCOLO *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-step{max-width:860px;margin:0 auto 26px auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;padding-bottom:24px;border-bottom:1px solid rgba(180,151,95,.25);}\r\n.pflac-step:last-child{border-bottom:none;margin-bottom:0;padding-bottom:0;}\r\n.pflac-num{display:inline-block;background:#0D3544;color:#fff;font-size:12px;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:.14em;padding:6px 12px;margin-bottom:12px;text-transform:uppercase;}\r\n.pflac-step h3{margin:0 0 10px;font-size:21px;}\r\n\r\n\/* CALLOUT *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-callout{max-width:900px;margin:26px auto 0 auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;background:#fff;border:1px solid rgba(180,151,95,.22);border-left:4px solid #00B0F0;padding:24px 28px;box-shadow:0 18px 50px rgba(0,0,0,.045);}\r\n.pflac-callout p{margin:0;font-size:16.5px;}\r\n\r\n\/* CIFRAS *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-stats{max-width:980px;margin:30px auto 0 auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;display:grid;grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);gap:20px;}\r\n.pflac-stat{background:rgba(255,255,255,.05);border:1px solid rgba(216,189,132,.28);padding:28px 24px;text-align:center;}\r\n.pflac-stat-num{display:block;color:#d8bd84;font-size:clamp(30px,3.4vw,44px);font-weight:300;line-height:1;letter-spacing:-.03em;margin-bottom:12px;}\r\n.pflac-stat-txt{color:rgba(255,255,255,.75);font-size:14.5px;line-height:1.65;}\r\n@media(max-width:820px){.pflac-section .pflac-stats{grid-template-columns:1fr;}}\r\n\r\n\/* FAQ *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-faq{max-width:920px;margin:34px auto 0 auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;display:grid;gap:14px;}\r\n.pflac-faq-item{background:#fff;border:1px solid rgba(180,151,95,.22);padding:24px 28px;box-shadow:0 18px 50px rgba(0,0,0,.045);}\r\n.pflac-faq-item h3{margin:0 0 10px;font-size:18px;}\r\n.pflac-faq-item p{margin:0;color:#555;font-size:16px;line-height:1.8;}\r\n.pflac-faq-item p a{color:#9b7b3d;font-weight:700;text-decoration:none;}\r\n\r\n\/* AUTOR \/ FUENTES *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-authorbox{max-width:1180px;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;background:#fff;border:1px solid rgba(180,151,95,.28);border-left:4px solid #b4975f;padding:30px 34px;}\r\n.pflac-authorbox p{margin:0 0 10px;color:#3b3b3b;font-size:14.5px;line-height:1.7;}\r\n.pflac-authorbox p:last-child{margin:0;}\r\n.pflac-authorbox strong{color:#111;}\r\n.pflac-authorbox a{color:#9b7b3d;font-weight:700;text-decoration:none;}\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-refs{max-width:920px;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;}\r\n.pflac-refs h3{color:#111;font-size:15px;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.1em;}\r\n.pflac-refs ol{color:#666;font-size:13.5px;line-height:1.7;padding-left:18px;}\r\n.pflac-refs a{color:#9b7b3d;text-decoration:none;}\r\n\r\n\/* INDICE DE BLOQUES *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-toc{max-width:980px;margin:26px auto 0 auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:10px;}\r\n.pflac-toc a{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;min-height:46px;padding:12px 20px;border-radius:999px;border:1px solid rgba(13,53,68,.22);background:#fff;color:#0D3544;text-decoration:none;font-size:13.5px;font-weight:700;transition:.25s;}\r\n.pflac-toc a:hover{background:#0D3544;border-color:#0D3544;color:#fff;}\r\n\/* CONTADOR DE BLOQUE *\/\r\n.pflac-blockcount{display:inline-block;margin-left:10px;color:#b4975f;font-size:13px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.08em;vertical-align:middle;}\r\n\/* SLOT DEL TEST *\/\r\n.pflac-section .pflac-testslot{max-width:900px;margin:30px auto 0 auto !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;}\r\n\r\n@media(max-width:820px){.pflac-section{padding:56px 20px;}}\r\n@media(max-width:767px){\r\n  .pflac-hero{min-height:540px;background-position:66% center;}\r\n  .pflac-hero::before{background:linear-gradient(180deg, rgba(5,8,9,.96) 0%, rgba(5,8,9,.84) 45%, rgba(5,8,9,.96) 100%);}\r\n  .pflac-hero-inner{padding:92px 22px 56px;}\r\n  .pflac-actions{flex-direction:column;}\r\n  .pflac-btn-primary,.pflac-btn-secondary{width:100%;}\r\n}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= HERO ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-hero\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-hero-inner\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-hero-content\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-kicker\">Frequently asked questions<\/div>\r\n      <h1>Frequently asked questions<span>about lipedema<\/span><\/h1>\r\n      <p class=\"pflac-hero-text\">\r\n        The questions we are asked in the consultation, answered by the medical team that sees the patients. Without promising what cannot be promised, and saying plainly what is not known.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-actions\">\r\n        <a href=\"#contacto_footer\" class=\"pflac-btn-primary\">Request a concierge assessment<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"#test\" class=\"pflac-btn-secondary\">Take the lipedema test<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= INDEX ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section white\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-prose\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">How to use this page<\/div>\r\n      <h2>Start with <span>the question that brought you here<\/span><\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        The questions are grouped into six blocks. Each answer is deliberately short and, where the subject deserves more, it links to the page where it is developed. If your question is not here, write to us and we will answer it: a good part of what is on this page arrived that way.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-toc\">\r\n      <a href=\"#about\">About lipedema<\/a>\r\n      <a href=\"#differences\">Lipedema and what looks like it<\/a>\r\n      <a href=\"#diagnosis\">Symptoms and diagnosis<\/a>\r\n      <a href=\"#conservative\">Conservative treatment and daily life<\/a>\r\n      <a href=\"#surgery\">Lipedema surgery<\/a>\r\n      <a href=\"#clinic\">The clinic and travelling in<\/a>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= ABOUT ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section\" id=\"about\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-lead\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">What it is, why it appears and what to expect from it<\/div>\r\n      <h2>About lipedema<span class=\"pflac-blockcount\">10 questions<\/span><\/h2>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-faq\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What exactly is lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It is a chronic disease of the adipose tissue that causes a disproportionate increase of fat, almost always in the legs and often in the arms too, with pain or tenderness to the touch. It is not being overweight and it is not cellulite: the tissue behaves differently, which is why it responds differently. The WHO recognises it in ICD-11 with its own code (EF02.2). British spelling is lipoedema; both refer to the same condition. Full detail in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/what-is-lipedema\/\">what is lipedema<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Can lipedema be cured?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>No. Lipedema is chronic and no treatment cures it today, neither conservative nor surgical. What does exist is treatment for its symptoms: compression, drainage and self-care measures reduce pain and heaviness, and surgery can remove part of the affected tissue and improve pain and volume. Any clinic promising a cure is telling you something that does not hold up.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Does lipedema always hurt?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Pain or tenderness to the touch is part of what defines the disease, but the intensity varies enormously between patients and across the day. Some women live with constant pain; others only notice discomfort on pressure, heaviness at the end of the day, or pain when something rubs. Mild pain does not rule lipedema out, and severe pain does not mean it is more advanced.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Why does lipedema appear?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>The cause is not known. What is consistently observed is that it affects almost exclusively women, that it tends to appear or worsen at moments of hormonal change, which points to a hormonal component, and that many patients have other women in the family with the same legs. The detail is in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/causes-of-lipedema\/\">causes of lipedema<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is lipedema hereditary?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>A family history is very common: mother, grandmother, sisters or aunts with the same leg pattern. That points to a familial predisposition, but the specific hereditary mechanism has not been identified and there is no genetic test that confirms or rules it out. Having relatives with lipedema raises the suspicion, not the certainty, and not having them does not rule it out.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>At what age does lipedema start?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It usually shows up alongside a significant hormonal change: puberty, a pregnancy or perimenopause. Puberty is the most common, and many patients describe legs that changed at 13 or 14 and a condition nobody named for decades. It can also become evident later, after hormone treatment or a change in weight.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Can you have lipedema and be slim?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Yes, and it is one of the reasons it goes undiagnosed. Lipedema exists at a normal weight: the feature that counts is not the weight but the disproportion between trunk and limbs, together with the pain and the consistency of the tissue. A woman with a small waist and legs that will not change can have lipedema, and has often been told for years that it is a matter of persistence.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Can lipedema affect the arms?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Yes. The arms are affected in a substantial share of patients, sometimes at the same time as the legs and sometimes later. The typical pattern is a symmetrical increase on the back of the upper arm that stops at the wrist, just as in the leg it stops at the ankle. More in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/causes-thick-arms-lipedema\/\">why arms thicken with lipedema<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Does menopause make lipedema worse?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Many patients report a worsening through perimenopause and menopause: more volume, more pain, or new areas involved. That fits the role oestrogens appear to play in the disease, although the exact mechanism is not established and not everyone experiences it the same way. Where it coincides with weight gain, treating that weight is what helps the leg volume most.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Can lipedema be stopped from progressing?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>The assumption that lipedema always progresses, inevitably, is being questioned in recent literature: some patients remain stable for years. What we do know is that added excess weight makes the picture worse, and that controlling it, alongside compression and movement, is what can be offered today to keep it in check. There is no way to guarantee it will not advance.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= DIFFERENCES ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section white\" id=\"differences\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-lead\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">Cellulite, lymphoedema, water retention and obesity<\/div>\r\n      <h2>Lipedema and what looks like it<span class=\"pflac-blockcount\">4 questions<\/span><\/h2>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-faq\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How do I know whether it is lipedema or cellulite?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Cellulite is a cosmetic change on the surface of the skin, it does not hurt, and most women have it. Lipedema is a disease: the volume is disproportionate, the tissue hurts when pressed, and there are usually palpable nodules under the skin. You can have both at once. The full comparison, with images, is in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/difference-lipedema-cellulite\/\">lipedema vs cellulite<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What is the difference between lipedema and lymphoedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Lymphoedema is a build-up of lymph caused by failed drainage: it pits when pressed, it is usually asymmetrical, and it involves the foot or the hand. Lipedema is a build-up of fat: it is symmetrical, it spares the foot and the hand, and it hurts. They can overlap, and when they coexist over time it is called lipo-lymphoedema. Telling them apart changes the treatment entirely, which is why the assessment includes a vascular study.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is it lipedema or water retention?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Water retention fluctuates: it improves when you elevate the legs, worsens with heat or salt, and changes from one day to the next. Lipedema does not disappear overnight or with rest, because what lies underneath is fatty tissue, not water. Many patients have both, and the fluid component responds to drainage and compression while the fat volume stays.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is lipedema the same as obesity?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>No, they are different things, although they can coexist. Obesity affects the body globally and responds to energy balance; lipedema is a localised, painful alteration of the adipose tissue that is not distributed in the same way. That said, where there is associated excess weight it is worth treating, because losing weight does reduce leg volume and improve symptoms, even though it does not remove the lipedema.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= DIAGNOSIS ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section\" id=\"diagnosis\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-lead\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">How it is identified and who diagnoses it<\/div>\r\n      <h2>Symptoms and diagnosis<span class=\"pflac-blockcount\">6 questions<\/span><\/h2>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-faq\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How do I know if I have lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Four signs orient the most: disproportion between trunk and legs, pain or discomfort on pressure, bruising easily, and a sharp cut-off at the ankle or wrist that leaves the foot or the hand unaffected. If several of those sound familiar, it is worth consulting. You can use the <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/lipedema-test\/\">lipedema test<\/a> on this page to organise your symptoms before the visit.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How is lipedema diagnosed?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>The diagnosis is clinical: it rests on the history and the physical examination by a doctor experienced in lipedema. There is no imaging test or blood test that confirms it. What the tests do is rule out what resembles it, above all venous and lymphatic disease. The full process is in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/lipedema-diagnosis\/\">lipedema diagnosis<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is an ultrasound useful for diagnosing lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Ultrasound does not give the diagnosis, but it is useful: duplex ultrasound rules out venous insufficiency, varicose veins or the after-effects of thrombosis, all of which change both the diagnosis and the planning of any surgery. In our clinic the vascular study is done by an angiologist on the team within the same assessment, not in a separate circuit.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Which specialist treats lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It is mostly diagnosed and treated by angiology and vascular surgery and by plastic surgery, and what matters most is not the specialty but specific experience in lipedema. In our study of 969 participants, the specialty that signed off the most diagnoses in Spain was vascular surgery, at 50.4%. You can see the <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/medical-team\/\">medical team<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How many stages and types of lipedema are there?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Four stages, which describe how far the appearance of the tissue has advanced, and five types, which describe where the fat sits. They are two separate, complementary classifications: you can have stage 1 with type III, for example. Each one is explained in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/stages-of-lipedema\/\">stages of lipedema<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Why does it take so long to get diagnosed?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Because for years it has been read as excess weight or as a lack of willpower. In our study, 51.2% of participants had to consult three or more different specialists before receiving a diagnosis. That is not a patient problem: it is a recognition problem, and it explains why so many women arrive at the consultation already fairly clear about what they have.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-testslot\" id=\"test\">\r\n<!--\r\n  UNIFIED LIPEDEMA CALCULATOR + TEST WIDGET (EN) - Lipedema Advanced Care\r\n  Paste into an Elementor \"Text editor\" block or a WordPress \"HTML\" block (must process shortcodes).\r\n  IMPORTANT: the JS does NOT use the \"&&\" operator on purpose: WordPress encodes the & of the content to\r\n  entities (&#038;) and inside a <script> that breaks the JS. Every compound condition uses nested ifs or \"||\".\r\n  Wired to WPForms id=5860 (same hidden fields lac-* as the ES version). Radio VALUES stay 'mujer'\/'hombre'\r\n  so the calc logic and the 5860 mapping keep working; only the visible labels are in English.\r\n  NOTE: the [wpforms id=\"5860\"] form renders in Spanish (it is the ES production form). To show it in English,\r\n  translate form 5860 via WPML string translation or use a duplicated EN form and swap the id here.\r\n-->\r\n<div id=\"lac-calc-app\" class=\"lac-calc\">\r\n  <style>\r\n    .lac-calc{\r\n      --lac-cyan:#00B0F0; --lac-dark:#0D3544; --lac-border:#e1eaee; --lac-bg:#ffffff; --lac-soft:#f5f9fb; --lac-gold:#C9A227;\r\n      font-family:inherit; color:var(--lac-dark); max-width:780px; margin:0 auto; padding:clamp(18px,4vw,34px);\r\n      background:var(--lac-bg); border:1px solid var(--lac-border); border-radius:18px;\r\n      box-shadow:0 18px 50px rgba(13,53,68,.10); box-sizing:border-box; line-height:1.6; position:relative; overflow:hidden;\r\n    }\r\n    .lac-calc:before{content:\"\"; position:absolute; top:0; left:0; right:0; height:4px; background:linear-gradient(90deg,var(--lac-cyan),var(--lac-gold));}\r\n    .lac-calc *{box-sizing:border-box;}\r\n    .lac-calc h2{font-size:clamp(1.5rem,3.6vw,2.05rem); margin:.1em 0 .3em; color:var(--lac-dark); text-align:center; font-weight:800; letter-spacing:-.01em;}\r\n    .lac-calc h3{font-size:clamp(1.1rem,2.4vw,1.3rem); margin:0 0 .7em; color:var(--lac-dark); font-weight:700;}\r\n    .lac-calc .lac-sub{text-align:center; color:#5a727d; margin:0 auto 1.8em; max-width:600px; font-size:1.02rem;}\r\n    .lac-card{border:1px solid var(--lac-border); border-radius:14px; padding:clamp(16px,3vw,24px); margin-bottom:18px; background:var(--lac-soft);}\r\n    .lac-step-num{display:inline-flex; align-items:center; justify-content:center; width:26px; height:26px; border-radius:50%; background:var(--lac-cyan); color:#fff; font-size:.85rem; font-weight:800; margin-right:9px; vertical-align:middle;}\r\n    .lac-grid{display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit,minmax(150px,1fr)); gap:15px;}\r\n    .lac-field label{display:block; font-weight:600; font-size:.9rem; margin-bottom:6px; color:var(--lac-dark);}\r\n    .lac-field input[type=\"number\"]{width:100%; padding:13px; border:1px solid var(--lac-border); border-radius:10px; font-size:1rem; background:#fff; color:var(--lac-dark);}\r\n    .lac-field input:focus{outline:none; border-color:var(--lac-cyan); box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(0,176,240,.16);}\r\n    .lac-radios{display:flex; gap:10px; flex-wrap:wrap;}\r\n    .lac-radios label{display:flex; align-items:center; gap:7px; padding:11px 16px; border:1px solid var(--lac-border); border-radius:10px; cursor:pointer; font-weight:500; background:#fff; flex:1 1 120px; justify-content:center;}\r\n    .lac-radios input{accent-color:var(--lac-cyan);}\r\n    .lac-radios label:has(input:checked){border-color:var(--lac-cyan); background:rgba(0,176,240,.09); font-weight:700;}\r\n\r\n    .lac-pregunta{display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; align-items:center; justify-content:space-between; gap:12px; padding:15px 0; border-bottom:1px solid var(--lac-border);}\r\n    .lac-pregunta:last-child{border-bottom:none;}\r\n    .lac-pregunta .lac-q{flex:1 1 250px; font-weight:500; color:#26404b;}\r\n    .lac-sino{display:flex; gap:10px; flex:0 0 auto;}\r\n    .lac-sino button{padding:11px 24px; border:1px solid var(--lac-border); border-radius:10px; background:#fff; cursor:pointer; font-size:1rem; font-weight:600; min-width:84px; transition:.15s; color:var(--lac-dark);}\r\n    .lac-sino button.sel-si{background:#c0392b; border-color:#c0392b; color:#fff;}\r\n    .lac-sino button.sel-no{background:#1e8449; border-color:#1e8449; color:#fff;}\r\n\r\n    .lac-cta{display:block; width:100%; max-width:440px; margin:10px auto 6px; padding:17px 28px; border:none; border-radius:12px;\r\n      background:var(--lac-cyan); color:var(--lac-dark); font-size:1.15rem; font-weight:800; cursor:pointer; transition:.2s; letter-spacing:.2px;}\r\n    .lac-cta:hover{background:var(--lac-dark); color:#fff;}\r\n    .lac-disclaimer{font-size:.82rem; color:#7c919b; text-align:center; margin:12px auto 0; max-width:640px;}\r\n    .lac-error{color:#c0392b; font-weight:600; text-align:center; margin-top:10px; min-height:1.2em;}\r\n\r\n    #lac-resultados,#lac-lead{margin-top:28px;}\r\n    .lac-acc{border:1px solid var(--lac-border); border-radius:14px; margin-bottom:12px; overflow:hidden; background:#fff;}\r\n    .lac-acc-head{width:100%; display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:space-between; gap:12px; padding:17px 19px; background:#fff; border:none; cursor:pointer; text-align:left; font-size:1.05rem; font-weight:700; color:var(--lac-dark); font-family:inherit;}\r\n    .lac-acc-head .lac-val{display:flex; align-items:center; gap:10px; flex-wrap:wrap;}\r\n    .lac-badge{font-size:.78rem; font-weight:700; padding:4px 11px; border-radius:999px;}\r\n    .lac-acc-head .lac-arrow{transition:transform .2s; flex:0 0 auto;}\r\n    .lac-acc.open .lac-arrow{transform:rotate(180deg);}\r\n    .lac-acc-body{padding:0 19px; max-height:0; overflow:hidden; transition:max-height .25s ease, padding .25s ease;}\r\n    .lac-acc.open .lac-acc-body{padding:0 19px 19px; max-height:640px;}\r\n    .lac-acc-body p{margin:.4em 0; color:#42606c;}\r\n\r\n    .st-bajo{background:#e7f1fb;color:#1565c0;} .st-ok{background:#e6f4ea;color:#1e8449;}\r\n    .st-mod{background:#fdf0e3;color:#d4690a;} .st-alto{background:#fdeaea;color:#c0392b;}\r\n\r\n    .lac-lead-intro{background:linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(0,176,240,.08),rgba(201,162,39,.07)); border:1px solid var(--lac-cyan); border-radius:14px; padding:20px; margin-bottom:18px;}\r\n    .lac-lead-intro b{color:var(--lac-dark);}\r\n    .lac-3d{font-size:.92rem; color:#42606c; margin-top:9px;}\r\n\r\n    @media (max-width:560px){\r\n      .lac-pregunta{flex-direction:column; align-items:stretch;}\r\n      .lac-sino{justify-content:stretch;} .lac-sino button{flex:1;}\r\n      .lac-acc-head{font-size:1rem; padding:15px;}\r\n    }\r\n  <\/style>\r\n\r\n  <h2>Lipedema calculator and test<\/h2>\r\n  <p class=\"lac-sub\">Enter your details once and get your BMI, your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), your waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and the indicative result of the lipedema test. This is an educational tool: it does not replace medical diagnosis.<\/p>\r\n\r\n  <div class=\"lac-card\">\r\n    <h3><span class=\"lac-step-num\">1<\/span>Your details<\/h3>\r\n    <div class=\"lac-field\" style=\"margin-bottom:15px;\">\r\n      <label>Sex<\/label>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-radios\" id=\"lac-sexo\">\r\n        <label><input type=\"radio\" name=\"lac-sexo\" value=\"mujer\" checked> Woman<\/label>\r\n        <label><input type=\"radio\" name=\"lac-sexo\" value=\"hombre\"> Man<\/label>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"lac-grid\">\r\n      <div class=\"lac-field\"><label for=\"lac-edad\">Age (years)<\/label><input type=\"number\" id=\"lac-edad\" min=\"1\" max=\"120\" placeholder=\"e.g. 42\"><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-field\"><label for=\"lac-peso\">Weight (kg)<\/label><input type=\"number\" id=\"lac-peso\" min=\"1\" placeholder=\"e.g. 70\"><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-field\"><label for=\"lac-altura\">Height (cm)<\/label><input type=\"number\" id=\"lac-altura\" min=\"1\" placeholder=\"e.g. 165\"><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-field\"><label for=\"lac-cintura\">Waist (cm)<\/label><input type=\"number\" id=\"lac-cintura\" min=\"1\" placeholder=\"e.g. 80\"><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-field\"><label for=\"lac-cadera\">Hip (cm)<\/label><input type=\"number\" id=\"lac-cadera\" min=\"1\" placeholder=\"e.g. 105\"><\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <div class=\"lac-card\">\r\n    <h3><span class=\"lac-step-num\">2<\/span>Lipedema test<\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"lac-preguntas\">\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">1. Do you feel heaviness or have swollen legs?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">2. Does your body not respond to diets (you lose volume in the face, torso and chest, but the loss in legs or arms is minimal)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">3. Do you tend to bruise easily (bruises appear often on the legs with no known cause or from minor knocks)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">4. Is there no response to physical exercise (the loss in legs or arms is minimal)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">5. Do you feel pain on palpation (when someone leans on your legs or grips your arm)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">6. Is there a clear DISPROPORTION between legs or arms (with much more fatty volume) and the trunk?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">7. Are your hands and feet unaffected (no fat build-up in them)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">8. Is the fat in your legs or arms hard and nodular (firmer than abdominal fat)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"lac-pregunta\"><div class=\"lac-q\">9. Do you feel spontaneous pain (pain in arms or legs even at rest)?<\/div><div class=\"lac-sino\"><\/div><\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n\r\n  <button type=\"button\" class=\"lac-cta\" id=\"lac-calcular\">See my results<\/button>\r\n  <div class=\"lac-error\" id=\"lac-error\"><\/div>\r\n  <p class=\"lac-disclaimer\">This tool is indicative and educational. It does not constitute a medical diagnosis nor replace the assessment of a healthcare professional. Lipedema Advanced Care | Medical direction: Dr. Alexo Carballeira.<\/p>\r\n\r\n  <section id=\"lac-resultados\" hidden>\r\n    <h3>Your results<\/h3>\r\n    <div id=\"lac-acc-imc\" class=\"lac-acc\"><\/div>\r\n    <div id=\"lac-acc-icc\" class=\"lac-acc\"><\/div>\r\n    <div id=\"lac-acc-ica\" class=\"lac-acc\"><\/div>\r\n    <div id=\"lac-acc-test\" class=\"lac-acc\"><\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <section id=\"lac-lead\" hidden>\r\n    <div class=\"lac-lead-intro\">\r\n      <b>Take the next step.<\/b> You can start to understand your case from home, but expert assessment is what makes the difference. Request your consultation and we will receive your data and results to prepare your appointment.\r\n      <div class=\"lac-3d\">In consultation we confirm your case with specialised medical assessment and 3D scanning technology (Bodygee).<\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"lac-wpforms-slot\">\r\n      <div class=\"wpforms-container wpforms-container-full\" id=\"wpforms-5860\"><form id=\"wpforms-form-5860\" class=\"wpforms-validate wpforms-form\" data-formid=\"5860\" method=\"post\" enctype=\"multipart\/form-data\" action=\"\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4460\" data-token=\"f0c26ca65e6d823fbbe4656ae19b4af9\"><noscript class=\"wpforms-error-noscript\">Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.<\/noscript><div class=\"wpforms-field-container\"><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_0-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-name\" data-field-id=\"0\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_0\">Nombre <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><div class=\"wpforms-field-row wpforms-field-medium\"><div class=\"wpforms-field-row-block wpforms-first wpforms-one-half\"><input type=\"text\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_0\" class=\"wpforms-field-name-first wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][0][first]\" placeholder=\"Nombre\" required><label for=\"wpforms-5860-field_0\" class=\"wpforms-field-sublabel after wpforms-sublabel-hide\">First<\/label><\/div><div class=\"wpforms-field-row-block wpforms-one-half\"><input type=\"text\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_0-last\" class=\"wpforms-field-name-last wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][0][last]\" placeholder=\"Apellidos\" required><label for=\"wpforms-5860-field_0-last\" class=\"wpforms-field-sublabel after wpforms-sublabel-hide\">Last<\/label><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_2-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-email\" data-field-id=\"2\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_2\">Correo electr\u00f3nico <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><input type=\"email\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_2\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][2]\" placeholder=\"Correo\" required><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_1-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-phone\" data-field-id=\"1\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_1\">Tel\u00e9fono <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><input type=\"tel\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_1\" class=\"wpforms-field-small wpforms-field-required\" data-rule-int-phone-field=\"true\" name=\"wpforms[fields][1]\" placeholder=\"Tel\u00e9fono\" required><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_3-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-textarea\" data-field-id=\"3\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_3\">Mensaje (Opcional)<\/label><textarea id=\"wpforms-5860-field_3\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][3]\" placeholder=\"Mensaje\" ><\/textarea><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_4-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-checkbox\" data-field-id=\"4\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_4\">Casillas de verificaci\u00f3n <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><ul id=\"wpforms-5860-field_4\" class=\"wpforms-field-required\"><li class=\"choice-1 depth-1\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_4_1\" name=\"wpforms[fields][4][]\" value=\"He leido y acepto la politica de privacidad y el tratamiento de mis datos de salud para gestionar mi solicitud de valoracion.\" required ><label class=\"wpforms-field-label-inline\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_4_1\">He leido y acepto la politica de privacidad y el tratamiento de mis datos de salud para gestionar mi solicitud de valoracion.<\/label><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_13-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-sexo-f\" data-field-id=\"13\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_13\">Sexo<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_13\" name=\"wpforms[fields][13]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_14-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-edad-f\" data-field-id=\"14\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_14\">Edad<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_14\" name=\"wpforms[fields][14]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_15-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-peso-f\" data-field-id=\"15\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_15\">Peso (kg)<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_15\" name=\"wpforms[fields][15]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_16-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-altura-f\" data-field-id=\"16\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_16\">Altura (cm)<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_16\" name=\"wpforms[fields][16]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_17-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-cintura-f\" data-field-id=\"17\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_17\">Cintura (cm)<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_17\" name=\"wpforms[fields][17]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_18-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-cadera-f\" data-field-id=\"18\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_18\">Cadera (cm)<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_18\" name=\"wpforms[fields][18]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_19-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-imc-f\" data-field-id=\"19\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_19\">IMC<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_19\" name=\"wpforms[fields][19]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_20-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-icc-f\" data-field-id=\"20\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_20\">ICC<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_20\" name=\"wpforms[fields][20]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_21-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-ica-f\" data-field-id=\"21\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_21\">ICA<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_21\" name=\"wpforms[fields][21]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_22-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-test-f\" data-field-id=\"22\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_22\">Resultado test lipedema<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_22\" name=\"wpforms[fields][22]\"><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-5860-field_23-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-hidden lac-resumen\" data-field-id=\"23\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-5860-field_23\">Resumen completo<\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"wpforms-5860-field_23\" name=\"wpforms[fields][23]\"><\/div><\/div><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"wpforms[recaptcha]\" value=\"\"><div class=\"wpforms-submit-container\"><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"wpforms[id]\" value=\"5860\"><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"wpforms[author]\" value=\"6\"><button type=\"submit\" name=\"wpforms[submit]\" id=\"wpforms-submit-5860\" class=\"wpforms-submit\" aria-live=\"assertive\" value=\"wpforms-submit\">Enviar<\/button><\/div><\/form><\/div>  <!-- .wpforms-container -->\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <script>\r\n  (function(){\r\n    var app = document.getElementById('lac-calc-app');\r\n    if(!app){ return; }\r\n    if(app.dataset.init){ return; }\r\n    app.dataset.init = '1';\r\n\r\n    app.querySelectorAll('#lac-preguntas .lac-pregunta').forEach(function(row){\r\n      var cont = row.querySelector('.lac-sino');\r\n      var si = document.createElement('button'); si.type='button'; si.textContent='Yes';\r\n      var no = document.createElement('button'); no.type='button'; no.textContent='No';\r\n      cont.appendChild(si); cont.appendChild(no);\r\n      si.addEventListener('click', function(){ row.dataset.answer='si'; si.classList.add('sel-si'); no.classList.remove('sel-no'); });\r\n      no.addEventListener('click', function(){ row.dataset.answer='no'; no.classList.add('sel-no'); si.classList.remove('sel-si'); });\r\n    });\r\n\r\n    function num(id){ var v = parseFloat(document.getElementById(id).value); return isNaN(v)?null:v; }\r\n\r\n    function calcIMC(peso, alturaCm){\r\n      if(!peso){ return null; } if(!alturaCm){ return null; }\r\n      var m = alturaCm\/100, imc = peso\/(m*m), clas, st, desc;\r\n      if(imc<18.5){clas='Underweight'; st='st-bajo'; desc='May be associated with malnutrition, loss of muscle mass, immune risk and energy deficit.';}\r\n      else if(imc<=24.9){clas='Normal weight'; st='st-ok'; desc='Considered the general healthy range, with lower risk of cardiovascular or metabolic disease.';}\r\n      else if(imc<=29.9){clas='Overweight'; st='st-mod'; desc='Associated with higher risk of hypertension, insulin resistance and joint problems.';}\r\n      else{clas='Obesity'; st='st-alto'; desc='Increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and sleep apnoea, among others.';}\r\n      return {valor:imc.toFixed(1), clas:clas, st:st, desc:desc, nota:'In lipedema, BMI can overestimate pathological fat: the build-up is disproportionate in the legs or arms and does not respond to diet.'};\r\n    }\r\n    function calcICC(cintura, cadera, sexo){\r\n      if(!cintura){ return null; } if(!cadera){ return null; }\r\n      var icc = cintura\/cadera, clas, st;\r\n      if(sexo==='mujer'){ if(icc<0.81){clas='Normal WHR'; st='st-ok';} else if(icc<=0.85){clas='Elevated risk'; st='st-mod';} else {clas='Very high risk'; st='st-alto';} }\r\n      else { if(icc<0.91){clas='Normal WHR'; st='st-ok';} else if(icc<=1.00){clas='Elevated risk'; st='st-mod';} else {clas='Very high risk'; st='st-alto';} }\r\n      return {valor:icc.toFixed(2), clas:clas, st:st, desc:'The waist-to-hip ratio estimates abdominal fat distribution. The WHO sets the increased-risk threshold at 0.85 in women and 0.90 in men; this scale adds an intermediate band as guidance.'};\r\n    }\r\n    function calcICA(cintura, alturaCm, edad){\r\n      if(!cintura){ return null; } if(!alturaCm){ return null; }\r\n      var ica = cintura\/alturaCm, clas, st;\r\n      if(ica<0.40){clas='Underweight or risk of malnutrition'; st='st-bajo';}\r\n      else if(ica<0.50){clas='Healthy range (low risk)'; st='st-ok';}\r\n      else if(ica<0.60){clas='Moderate risk'; st='st-mod';}\r\n      else{clas='High risk'; st='st-alto';}\r\n      var nota='';\r\n      if(edad){\r\n        if(edad<40){ if(ica>0.5){ nota='For your age, the optimal limit is <= 0.5.'; } }\r\n        else if(edad<=50){ if(ica>=0.5){ if(ica<0.6){ nota='A value in the intermediate range for your age.'; } } }\r\n        else { if(ica>=0.6){ nota='For people over 50, this value indicates high risk.'; } }\r\n      }\r\n      return {valor:ica.toFixed(2), clas:clas, st:st, desc:'The waist-to-height ratio is one of the best predictors of cardiometabolic risk. General recommendation: keep your waist below half your height.'+(nota?' '+nota:'')};\r\n    }\r\n    function calcTest(){\r\n      var rows = app.querySelectorAll('#lac-preguntas .lac-pregunta');\r\n      var answered=0, si=0;\r\n      rows.forEach(function(r){ if(r.dataset.answer){answered++; if(r.dataset.answer==='si'){ si++; }} });\r\n      if(answered===0){ return null; }\r\n      var clas, st, desc;\r\n      if(si>=6){ clas='High probability of lipedema'; st='st-alto'; desc='According to this indicative test, there is a high probability that you have lipedema. We recommend a specialised medical assessment to confirm it.'; }\r\n      else { clas='Low probability'; st='st-ok'; desc='According to this test, it is unlikely that you have lipedema. If you still have doubts, consult a specialist.'; }\r\n      return {valor:si+' \/ '+rows.length+' affirmative answers'+(answered<rows.length?' ('+answered+' answered)':''), clas:clas, st:st, desc:desc, si:si, answered:answered};\r\n    }\r\n\r\n    function render(id, titulo, r){\r\n      var el = document.getElementById(id);\r\n      if(!r){ el.hidden=true; return; }\r\n      el.hidden=false;\r\n      el.innerHTML =\r\n        '<button type=\"button\" class=\"lac-acc-head\"><span class=\"lac-val\">'+titulo+\r\n        ': <strong>'+r.valor+'<\/strong> <span class=\"lac-badge '+r.st+'\">'+r.clas+'<\/span><\/span>'+\r\n        '<svg class=\"lac-arrow\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\"><path d=\"M6 9l6 6 6-6\"\/><\/svg><\/button>'+\r\n        '<div class=\"lac-acc-body\"><p>'+r.desc+'<\/p>'+(r.nota?'<p style=\"color:#5a727d;font-size:.92rem;\">'+r.nota+'<\/p>':'')+'<\/div>';\r\n      el.querySelector('.lac-acc-head').addEventListener('click', function(){ el.classList.toggle('open'); });\r\n    }\r\n\r\n    function setWP(cls, value){\r\n      if(!app.parentNode){ return; }\r\n      document.querySelectorAll('.'+cls+' input, input.'+cls+', .'+cls+' textarea, textarea.'+cls).forEach(function(inp){ inp.value = value; });\r\n    }\r\n    function volcar(d, resumen){\r\n      setWP('lac-resumen', resumen);\r\n      setWP('lac-sexo-f', d.sexo); setWP('lac-edad-f', d.edad||''); setWP('lac-peso-f', d.peso||'');\r\n      setWP('lac-altura-f', d.altura||''); setWP('lac-cintura-f', d.cintura||''); setWP('lac-cadera-f', d.cadera||'');\r\n      setWP('lac-imc-f', d.imc); setWP('lac-icc-f', d.icc); setWP('lac-ica-f', d.ica); setWP('lac-test-f', d.test);\r\n    }\r\n\r\n    document.getElementById('lac-calcular').addEventListener('click', function(){\r\n      var err = document.getElementById('lac-error'); err.textContent='';\r\n      var sexo = (app.querySelector('input[name=\"lac-sexo\"]:checked')||{}).value || 'mujer';\r\n      var edad=num('lac-edad'), peso=num('lac-peso'), altura=num('lac-altura'), cintura=num('lac-cintura'), cadera=num('lac-cadera');\r\n      if(!peso||!altura||!cintura||!cadera){ err.textContent='To calculate your indices, please complete at least weight, height, waist and hip.'; return; }\r\n\r\n      var imc=calcIMC(peso,altura), icc=calcICC(cintura,cadera,sexo), ica=calcICA(cintura,altura,edad), test=calcTest();\r\n\r\n      render('lac-acc-imc','BMI',imc); render('lac-acc-icc','WHR',icc); render('lac-acc-ica','WHtR',ica);\r\n      render('lac-acc-test','Lipedema test',test);\r\n      var imcEl=document.getElementById('lac-acc-imc'); if(imcEl){ if(!imcEl.classList.contains('open')){ imcEl.classList.add('open'); } }\r\n\r\n      document.getElementById('lac-resultados').hidden=false;\r\n      document.getElementById('lac-lead').hidden=false;\r\n\r\n      var resumen='--- Lipedema AC calculator data ---\\n'+\r\n        'Sex: '+sexo+' | Age: '+(edad||'-')+'\\n'+\r\n        'Weight: '+(peso||'-')+' kg | Height: '+(altura||'-')+' cm | Waist: '+(cintura||'-')+' cm | Hip: '+(cadera||'-')+' cm\\n'+\r\n        (imc?('BMI: '+imc.valor+' ('+imc.clas+')\\n'):'')+\r\n        (icc?('WHR: '+icc.valor+' ('+icc.clas+')\\n'):'')+\r\n        (ica?('WHtR: '+ica.valor+' ('+ica.clas+')\\n'):'')+\r\n        (test?('Lipedema test: '+test.si+'\/9 affirmative - '+test.clas+'\\n'):'Test: not answered\\n');\r\n\r\n      volcar({sexo:sexo,edad:edad,peso:peso,altura:altura,cintura:cintura,cadera:cadera,\r\n        imc:imc?imc.valor+' '+imc.clas:'', icc:icc?icc.valor+' '+icc.clas:'', ica:ica?ica.valor+' '+ica.clas:'',\r\n        test:test?test.si+'\/9 '+test.clas:''}, resumen);\r\n\r\n      document.getElementById('lac-resultados').scrollIntoView({behavior:'smooth', block:'start'});\r\n    });\r\n  })();\r\n  <\/script>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <p class=\"pflac-tnote\">The test is not a diagnosis: it organises your symptoms so the consultation starts from something concrete. Lipedema is diagnosed clinically, by a doctor.<\/p>\r\n\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= FIGURES ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section dark\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-prose\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">From our own study<\/div>\r\n      <h2>Why we insist so much on <span>the diagnosis<\/span><\/h2>\r\n      <p>\r\n        In 2023 we published <em>The Advanced Care Study<\/em> in the <em>International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health<\/em>, a descriptive study of <strong>969 participants with lipedema in Spain<\/strong>. These three figures explain why half a page of frequently asked questions is really about reaching a correct diagnosis.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-stats\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-stat\">\r\n        <span class=\"pflac-stat-num\">969<\/span>\r\n        <span class=\"pflac-stat-txt\">participants with lipedema in Spain in the study of which Dr Carballeira is lead author.<\/span>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-stat\">\r\n        <span class=\"pflac-stat-num\">51.2%<\/span>\r\n        <span class=\"pflac-stat-txt\">had to consult three or more different specialists before getting a diagnosis.<\/span>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-stat\">\r\n        <span class=\"pflac-stat-num\">50.4%<\/span>\r\n        <span class=\"pflac-stat-txt\">were diagnosed by a vascular surgeon, the specialty that signed off the most diagnoses.<\/span>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-prose\" style=\"margin-top:34px;\">\r\n      <p>\r\n        You can read the <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/lipedema-study\/\">full study<\/a>. The existence of research behind us does not guarantee a surgical outcome and we do not present it as such: what it indicates is the rigour with which the diagnosis is approached.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= CONSERVATIVE ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section\" id=\"conservative\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-lead\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">Compression, drainage, diet, exercise and heat<\/div>\r\n      <h2>Conservative treatment and daily life<span class=\"pflac-blockcount\">9 questions<\/span><\/h2>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-faq\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What is the treatment for lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Treatment has two legs. The conservative one, which is the foundation and is never abandoned: compression, lymphatic drainage, movement, and weight management where there is associated excess weight. And the surgical one, considered when the above does not control the pain or when the volume limits daily life. Neither cures. Developed in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/lipedema-treatment\/\">lipedema treatment<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Does losing weight help lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Two things need separating. Diet does not remove lipedema fat: it does not respond like normal fat, which is why many patients lose weight from the waist and the face while the legs stay put. But where there is associated excess weight, losing weight does reduce leg volume and improve symptoms, which is why it is part of the treatment. Both sentences are true at the same time.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is there a specific diet for lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>No diet has been demonstrated for lipedema, neither ketogenic nor anti-inflammatory nor elimination-based. What there is evidence for is a healthy eating pattern and managing excess weight where it exists. If a particular pattern eases your swelling, it makes sense to keep it, but be wary of anyone selling a diet as a treatment for lipedema, or banning whole food groups without a medical reason.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What exercise is best with lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Whatever you can sustain over time without increasing your pain. Water-based activity works particularly well, because the water pressure supports drainage and unloads the joints, and so does properly prescribed strength work. The aim is not to slim the leg down, which is what usually causes frustration: it is to maintain mobility, muscle mass and drainage.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What are compression garments for?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>They are the foundation of conservative treatment: they reduce swelling, contain the tissue, and many patients notice less pain and less heaviness at the end of the day. They do not slim the leg or remove fat. Lipedema usually calls for flat-knit fabric and firm compression, often made to measure. Classes, types and use are covered in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/compression-garments-lipedema\/\">compression garments for lipedema<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is manual lymphatic drainage useful? Does it hurt?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It helps with the fluid component and the sense of heaviness, and it is usually combined with compression. It does not reduce lipedema fat. Done properly it should not hurt: it is a very superficial, gentle technique, nothing like a deep-tissue or reducing massage. If it hurts or leaves bruises, it is not lymphatic drainage. More in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/manual-lymphatic-drainage-lipedema\/\">manual lymphatic drainage<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Why does it get worse in the heat?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It is one of the things patients report most in summer: more swelling, more heaviness, more pain. The reasonable explanation is that heat dilates the vessels and pushes fluid into a tissue that already has a drainage problem. What helps: a cool shower over the legs, elevating them, keeping the compression on even when it is uncomfortable, and staying out of the hottest hours.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is there any medication for lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>No drug is approved to treat lipedema. Diuretics are not indicated and can be counterproductive, because the problem is not retained water. Painkillers are used for the pain, not for the disease. Any supplement offered to you as a lipedema treatment deserves a great deal of scepticism and a conversation in the consultation first.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Does lipedema affect mental health?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Frequently yes, and it deserves saying. Living with pain, with a body that does not respond to effort, and with years of being read as a question of willpower carries a real emotional cost. It is not a side issue or a matter of appearance: it is part of the picture and it is worth treating, with psychological support where needed.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= SURGERY ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section white\" id=\"surgery\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-lead\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">Indication, technique, limits and recovery<\/div>\r\n      <h2>Lipedema surgery<span class=\"pflac-blockcount\">15 questions<\/span><\/h2>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-faq\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Does every patient with lipedema need surgery?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>No. Surgery is neither the compulsory step nor the first one: it is considered when well-delivered conservative treatment does not control the pain, or when the volume limits mobility and daily life. Some patients stay on conservative treatment for years and never need an operation. And there are situations where we do not operate, on medical grounds. Explained in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/lipedema-surgery\/\">lipedema surgery<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is lipedema surgery safe and effective?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Water-assisted liposuction is the technique with the longest track record in lipedema, with years of use in countries such as Germany, and the available evidence points to sustained improvement in pain and volume. That said, it is surgery: it carries risks, it requires prior assessment, and no result can be guaranteed. The specific risks in your case are explained in the consultation before any decision.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is the surgery permanent?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Fat removed from an area does not re-form there in the same way, and the improvement in pain and volume holds over time in most published series. But the lipedema is still there: it is chronic, it can show up in other areas, and conservative treatment continues afterwards. Having surgery is not closing the subject, it is changing the starting point.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Are Bodyjet, WAL and ACualipo the same thing?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Yes, it is the same technique under three names. WAL stands for water-assisted liposuction, Bodyjet is the best-known device it is performed with, and ACualipo is what we call it, to make it more understandable: it is the clinic's own naming, not a different medical term. The technique is in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/wal-lipedema-liposuction\/\">WAL liposuction<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is the anaesthesia always general?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>No. It can be done under local anaesthesia with sedation, epidural or general, depending on the areas treated, the volume planned and your medical history. The anaesthetist decides it with you at the pre-operative assessment, and it is one of the things worth asking about before choosing where to have surgery.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Can thighs and calves be operated on at the same time?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Sometimes yes. Circumferential calves combined with the inner thigh and saddlebags is a frequent combination, and in some cases full thighs and calves can be done in the same procedure. It depends on how much tissue has to be removed and on the safety of the procedure, so we work by priorities: whatever limits you most comes first.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How long should I wait between surgeries?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>If a different area is to be treated, waiting around three months is reasonable, which is what the body takes to recover haematologically. If it means revisiting the same area, longer: the tissue keeps settling for months and the skin retracts for up to around eight, so operating sooner means judging a result that is not final yet.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How much volume can be removed in one operation?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>There is no universal figure: it depends on your weight, your general health, the type of anaesthesia and the anaesthetist's judgement. In our planning we use a safety reference of around 10% of body weight, counting settled fat and not saline, which is why high-volume cases are resolved across several sessions rather than forcing a single one.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Is there more risk if I have varicose veins?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It has to be taken into account and it demands more care during the procedure, even when the varicose veins are superficial. That is why the duplex ultrasound study is done before surgery is indicated and not after: if venous disease shows up, it changes the planning, the order of treatments, and in some cases the indication itself.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Should I be at my target weight before surgery?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It is advisable, and as a reference we do not usually operate above a body mass index of 32. This is not a cosmetic preference: it affects the safety of the anaesthesia, the healing and the quality of the result. In some cases, when excess skin remains after the liposuction, complete treatment of the area includes a later skin-removal procedure.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How is skin laxity improved afterwards?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>The skin retracts on its own over months, so the first thing is to wait and not judge the result too early. In the meantime non-invasive treatments such as radiofrequency, carboxytherapy or lymphatic drainage help: the effect is real but moderate. If excess skin remains at the end and bothers you, a skin-removal procedure is assessed.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Should I have surgery before or after pregnancy?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It depends on your circumstances, and it is a conversation for the consultation. As general guidance, operating beforehand avoids the skin being stretched by pregnancy over an area that has already been treated. In areas treated deeply the same volume does not usually return, although pregnancy is a major hormonal change and can affect untreated areas.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Which areas can be treated? Are arms like legs?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Any affected area can be treated. The usual order is to start with calves and thighs, which is where the limitation is greatest, and treat the arms afterwards. In the arms the technique and the recovery are similar to the legs, with the advantage that the volume is usually smaller and the return to activity faster.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How much time off work will I need?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>It depends on the area, the volume removed and your job. You walk from day one but with restrictions, and compression is worn continuously for weeks. Desk work usually means an earlier return than work on your feet or with physical effort. The realistic timeline for each phase is in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/lipedema-surgery-recovery\/\">recovery after surgery<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>How much does lipedema surgery cost?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>We do not publish price lists, because the cost depends on the areas, the volume to be treated, the number of sessions needed and the type of anaesthesia, and quoting a figure without having seen the case would mean inventing it. What we do is provide the quote in writing after the assessment, with areas and sessions itemised, so you can compare it calmly.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= CLINIC ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section\" id=\"clinic\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-container\">\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-lead\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-eyebrow\">How the assessment works and what it includes<\/div>\r\n      <h2>The clinic and travelling in<span class=\"pflac-blockcount\">5 questions<\/span><\/h2>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"pflac-faq\">\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What does the first assessment include?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Clinical history and examination with the surgeon, vascular study with duplex ultrasound by the team angiologist, 3D body scan and body indices, all within the same visit. You leave knowing whether you have lipedema, at what stage and type, the state of your venous system and what your options are. The full process is in <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"\/en\/advanced-care-method\/\">the Advanced Care Method<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Where are you and how do I book?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>In Valencia, Spain, at Gran V&iacute;a del Marqu&eacute;s del Turia, 20, by appointment only, Monday to Friday. You can book on <a class=\"pflac-link\" href=\"tel:+34665027006\">+34 665 027 006<\/a> or by leaving your details in the form on this page. Valencia has an international airport with direct connections to most of Europe.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>Can I consult you if I live in another country?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Yes, and it is common. The diagnostic assessment has to be in person, because it relies on the physical examination and the duplex ultrasound. What can be resolved beforehand by phone or video is whether your case fits and what to expect, so the trip is worthwhile. The schedule is arranged so that everything is resolved in a single journey.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What language is the consultation in?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Consultations are held in Spanish and English. If you would prefer another language, tell us when you book so we can arrange it.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"pflac-faq-item\">\r\n        <h3>What if my diagnosis is not lipedema?<\/h3>\r\n        <p>You will be told, and pointed towards where it does belong. Ruling out is part of the diagnostic work: distinguishing lipedema from lymphoedema, from venous insufficiency or from other causes of increased volume is precisely what justifies two specialties assessing the same case.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= SOURCES ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section white\" style=\"padding-top:0;\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-refs\">\r\n    <h3>Sources and references<\/h3>\r\n    <ol>\r\n      <li>S2k guideline Lipoedema, AWMF 037-012, v5.0 (2024). Recommendations on clinical diagnosis, conservative treatment, body weight and surgical indication. <a href=\"https:\/\/register.awmf.org\/assets\/guidelines\/037-012l_S2k_Lipoedem_2024-01_01.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">View guideline<\/a><\/li>\r\n      <li>Carballeira Bra&ntilde;a A, Poveda Castillo J. <em>The Advanced Care Study: Current Status of Lipedema in Spain, A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study<\/em>. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2023;20(17):6647. <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37681787\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">View on PubMed<\/a><\/li>\r\n      <li>Herbst KL, et al. <em>Lipedema fat and signs and symptoms of illness, increase with advancing stage<\/em>. Phlebology, 2021;36(10):779-796.<\/li>\r\n      <li>Forner-Cordero I, Mu&ntilde;oz-Langa J. <em>Is lipedema a progressive disease?<\/em> Vasc Med, 2025;30(2):205-212. <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/39831319\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">View on PubMed<\/a><\/li>\r\n      <li>World Health Organization. ICD-11, code EF02.2 Lipoedema.<\/li>\r\n    <\/ol>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<!-- ============================= DISCLAIMER \/ AUTHORSHIP ============================= -->\r\n<section class=\"pflac-section white\" style=\"padding-top:0;\">\r\n  <div class=\"pflac-authorbox\">\r\n    <p><strong>Medically reviewed content.<\/strong> Produced by the medical team at Lipedema Advanced Care and reviewed by <strong>Dr Alexo Carballeira Bra&ntilde;a<\/strong>, plastic surgeon (SECPRE recertified) specialising in the treatment of lipedema, registered with the ICOMV and lead author of <em>The Advanced Care Study<\/em> (IJERPH, 2023).<\/p>\r\n    <p>This information is for general guidance and does not replace a medical consultation or diagnosis. Lipedema is a chronic condition: it has no cure, although its symptoms can be treated. All surgery carries risks, which are explained individually in consultation, and no outcome can be guaranteed in advance. Last updated: August 2026.<\/p>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n<!-- ============================= PREFOOTER CONTACTO (FORM 1787) ============================= -->\r\n<section id=\"lac-prefooter-contacto-unico\" class=\"lpf-main-section\">\r\n    <div class=\"lpf-container\">\r\n        <div class=\"lpf-flex-wrapper\">\r\n\r\n            <div class=\"lpf-doctor-side\">\r\n                <div class=\"lpf-doctor-sticky-box\">\r\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/dr-alexo-carballeira-consulta-lipedema-marques-del-turia.jpg\" alt=\"Dr. Alexo Carballeira\" class=\"lpf-doctor-img\" title=\"\">\r\n\r\n                    <div class=\"lpf-text-overlay\">\r\n                        <p class=\"lpf-tagline\">PERSONALISED CARE<\/p>\r\n                        <h2 class=\"lpf-hero-title\">\r\n                            Begin your path towards <br>\r\n                            <span class=\"lpf-gold-text\">lipedema relief<\/span>\r\n                        <\/h2>\r\n\r\n                        <div class=\"lpf-quote-container\">\r\n                            <p>\"My commitment is to offer you a precise diagnosis and complete support throughout.\"<\/p>\r\n                            <span class=\"lpf-signature\">Dr. Alexo Carballeira<\/span>\r\n                        <\/div>\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n\r\n            <div class=\"lpf-form-side\" id=\"contacto_footer\">\r\n                <div class=\"lpf-form-box\">\r\n                    <div class=\"lpf-form-header\">\r\n                        <h3 class=\"lpf-form-main-title\">Request an Assessment<\/h3>\r\n                        <p class=\"lpf-form-subtitle\">SPECIALIST PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS<\/p>\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n\r\n                    <div class=\"lpf-form-engine\">\r\n                        <div class=\"wpforms-container wpforms-container-full\" id=\"wpforms-3655\"><form id=\"wpforms-form-3655\" class=\"wpforms-validate wpforms-form\" data-formid=\"3655\" method=\"post\" enctype=\"multipart\/form-data\" action=\"\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4460\" data-token=\"d1f3e93ab481356d6ffcdf649263e1fa\"><noscript class=\"wpforms-error-noscript\">Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.<\/noscript><div class=\"wpforms-field-container\"><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_0-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-name\" data-field-id=\"0\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_0\">Name <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><div class=\"wpforms-field-row wpforms-field-medium\"><div class=\"wpforms-field-row-block wpforms-first wpforms-one-half\"><input type=\"text\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_0\" class=\"wpforms-field-name-first wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][0][first]\" placeholder=\"Name\" required><label for=\"wpforms-3655-field_0\" class=\"wpforms-field-sublabel after wpforms-sublabel-hide\">First<\/label><\/div><div class=\"wpforms-field-row-block wpforms-one-half\"><input type=\"text\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_0-last\" class=\"wpforms-field-name-last wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][0][last]\" placeholder=\"Surnames\" required><label for=\"wpforms-3655-field_0-last\" class=\"wpforms-field-sublabel after wpforms-sublabel-hide\">Last<\/label><\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_2-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-email\" data-field-id=\"2\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_2\">Email <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><input type=\"email\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_2\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][2]\" placeholder=\"Email\" required><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_13-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-number\" data-field-id=\"13\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_13\">Telephone <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><input type=\"number\" pattern=\"\\d*\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_13\" class=\"wpforms-field-small wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][13]\" placeholder=\"Telephone\" required><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_12-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-radio wpforms-list-inline\" data-field-id=\"12\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_12\">Gender<\/label><ul id=\"wpforms-3655-field_12\"><li class=\"choice-1 depth-1 wpforms-selected\"><input type=\"radio\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_12_1\" name=\"wpforms[fields][12]\" value=\"Female\"   checked='checked'><label class=\"wpforms-field-label-inline\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_12_1\">Female<\/label><\/li><li class=\"choice-2 depth-1\"><input type=\"radio\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_12_2\" name=\"wpforms[fields][12]\" value=\"Male\"  ><label class=\"wpforms-field-label-inline\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_12_2\">Male<\/label><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_11-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-number wpforms-one-half wpforms-first\" data-field-id=\"11\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_11\">Age <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><input type=\"number\" pattern=\"\\d*\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_11\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium wpforms-field-required\" name=\"wpforms[fields][11]\" placeholder=\"Ej: 45\" required><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_8-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-number wpforms-one-half\" data-field-id=\"8\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_8\">Weight (kg)<\/label><input type=\"number\" pattern=\"\\d*\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_8\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][8]\" placeholder=\"Ej: 70\" ><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_7-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-number wpforms-one-half wpforms-first\" data-field-id=\"7\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_7\">Height (cm)<\/label><input type=\"number\" pattern=\"\\d*\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_7\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][7]\" placeholder=\"Ej: 170\" ><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_9-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-number wpforms-one-half\" data-field-id=\"9\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_9\">Waist (cm)<\/label><input type=\"number\" pattern=\"\\d*\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_9\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][9]\" placeholder=\"Ej: 80\" ><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_10-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-number wpforms-one-half wpforms-first\" data-field-id=\"10\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_10\">Hip (cm)<\/label><input type=\"number\" pattern=\"\\d*\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_10\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][10]\" placeholder=\"Ej: 100\" ><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_3-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-textarea\" data-field-id=\"3\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_3\">Message (Optional)<\/label><textarea id=\"wpforms-3655-field_3\" class=\"wpforms-field-medium\" name=\"wpforms[fields][3]\" placeholder=\"Message\" ><\/textarea><\/div><div id=\"wpforms-3655-field_4-container\" class=\"wpforms-field wpforms-field-checkbox\" data-field-id=\"4\"><label class=\"wpforms-field-label wpforms-label-hide\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_4\">Checkboxes <span class=\"wpforms-required-label\">*<\/span><\/label><ul id=\"wpforms-3655-field_4\" class=\"wpforms-field-required\"><li class=\"choice-1 depth-1\"><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"wpforms-3655-field_4_1\" name=\"wpforms[fields][4][]\" value=\"I accept the privacy policy\" required ><label class=\"wpforms-field-label-inline\" for=\"wpforms-3655-field_4_1\">I accept the privacy policy<\/label><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"wpforms[recaptcha]\" value=\"\"><div class=\"wpforms-submit-container\"><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"wpforms[id]\" value=\"3655\"><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"wpforms[author]\" value=\"6\"><button type=\"submit\" name=\"wpforms[submit]\" id=\"wpforms-submit-3655\" class=\"wpforms-submit\" aria-live=\"assertive\" value=\"wpforms-submit\">Send<\/button><\/div><\/form><\/div>  <!-- .wpforms-container -->\r\n                    <\/div>\r\n                <\/div>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n\r\n        <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n<\/section>\r\n\r\n<style>\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico {\r\n        background-color: #0F1E23 !important;\r\n        padding: 100px 5%;\r\n        font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;\r\n        position: relative;\r\n        overflow: hidden;\r\n    }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-container { max-width: 1400px; margin: 0 auto; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-flex-wrapper { display: flex; align-items: stretch; gap: 80px; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-doctor-side { flex: 1; position: relative; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-doctor-sticky-box { position: sticky; top: 50px; height: 100%; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-doctor-img { width: 100%; height: 100%; object-fit: cover; filter: brightness(0.6); display: block; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-text-overlay {\r\n        position: absolute; bottom: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; padding: 80px 40px;\r\n        background: linear-gradient(to top, #0F1E23 30%, transparent 100%);\r\n    }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-tagline { font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; letter-spacing: 5px; color: #C8A158; margin-bottom: 15px; font-weight: 600; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-hero-title { font-size: clamp(30px, 4vw, 52px) !important; line-height: 1.1 !important; color: #ffffff !important; margin-bottom: 30px !important; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif !important; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-gold-text { color: #C8A158 !important; font-style: italic; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-quote-container { border-left: 1px solid #C8A158; padding-left: 25px; max-width: 400px; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-quote-container p { color: #ccc; font-style: italic; font-size: 16px; font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-signature { display: block; font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; letter-spacing: 2px; color: #C8A158; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: 10px; font-weight: 700; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-form-side { flex: 1; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-form-box { background: rgba(0,0,0,0.2); padding: 60px; border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.05); }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-form-main-title { color: #ffffff !important; font-size: 26px !important; font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif !important; margin-bottom: 5px !important; font-weight: 400 !important; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-form-subtitle { font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; font-size: 10px; letter-spacing: 3px; color: #C8A158; text-transform: uppercase; margin-bottom: 40px; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico input,\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico textarea {\r\n        width: 100% !important; background: transparent !important; border: none !important;\r\n        border-bottom: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.1) !important; color: #fff !important; padding: 12px 0 !important;\r\n        font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif !important; font-size: 15px !important; margin-bottom: 15px !important;\r\n        border-radius: 0 !important;\r\n    }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico input:focus { border-bottom-color: #C8A158 !important; outline: none; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-field-label { font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: #C8A158; letter-spacing: 1px; display: block; margin-top: 10px; font-weight: 700; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-row { display: flex; gap: 20px; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-col { flex: 1; }\r\n    @media (max-width: 992px) {\r\n        #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-flex-wrapper { flex-direction: column; }\r\n        #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-form-box { padding: 40px 20px; }\r\n        #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .lpf-text-overlay { position: relative; padding: 40px 0; background: none; }\r\n    }\r\n    \/* Markup REAL de WPForms (shortcode en vivo) *\/\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field-label { font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: #C8A158; letter-spacing: 1px; font-weight: 700; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field { margin-bottom: 8px; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field-radio ul { display: flex; gap: 10px; margin: 10px 0 20px; list-style: none; padding: 0; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field-radio li { flex: 1; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field-radio input[type=\"radio\"] { display: none !important; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field-radio label.wpforms-field-label-inline { display: block; text-align: center; border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.1); padding: 12px; cursor: pointer; font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: #777; transition: 0.3s; }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-field-radio li.wpforms-selected label.wpforms-field-label-inline { border-color: #C8A158; color: #C8A158; background: rgba(200, 161, 88, 0.05); }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-submit {\r\n        width: 100% !important; background-color: #C8A158 !important; color: #000 !important;\r\n        padding: 22px !important; font-family: 'Manrope', sans-serif !important; font-weight: 700 !important;\r\n        letter-spacing: 3px !important; border: none !important; cursor: pointer; transition: 0.4s ease;\r\n        margin-top: 20px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n    }\r\n    #lac-prefooter-contacto-unico .wpforms-submit:hover { background-color: #ffffff !important; transform: translateY(-3px); }\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<!-- =====================================================================\r\nRICH SNIPPET (JSON-LD)  -  MedicalWebPage + BreadcrumbList + FAQPage (49 questions)\r\nGenerated from the SAME source as the visible HTML: if an answer above is edited,\r\nregenerate this, never hand-edit both separately (that is how \"Content H\" ended\r\nup published inside an answer in the previous version).\r\nNo aggregateRating: Google does not accept self-serving ratings on the entity.\r\n===================================================================== -->\r\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\r\n{\r\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\r\n  \"@graph\": [\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"MedicalWebPage\",\r\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/lipedema-faq\/#webpage\",\r\n      \"url\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/lipedema-faq\/\",\r\n      \"name\": \"Frequently asked questions about lipedema\",\r\n      \"headline\": \"Frequently asked questions about lipedema\",\r\n      \"description\": \"49 frequently asked questions about lipedema answered by the medical team: whether it can be cured, whether it hurts, whether it is hereditary, diagnosis, conservative treatment and surgery.\",\r\n      \"inLanguage\": \"en-GB\",\r\n      \"lastReviewed\": \"2026-08-22\",\r\n      \"dateModified\": \"2026-08-22T00:07:12+00:00\",\r\n      \"specialty\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"MedicalSpecialty\",\r\n        \"name\": \"Plastic Surgery\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"isPartOf\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"WebSite\",\r\n        \"name\": \"Lipedema Advanced Care\",\r\n        \"url\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"about\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"MedicalCondition\",\r\n        \"name\": \"Lipedema\",\r\n        \"alternateName\": \"Lipoedema\",\r\n        \"code\": {\r\n          \"@type\": \"MedicalCode\",\r\n          \"codeValue\": \"EF02.2\",\r\n          \"codingSystem\": \"ICD-11\"\r\n        }\r\n      },\r\n      \"reviewedBy\": {\r\n        \"@id\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/doctor-alexo-carballeira-brana\/#physician\"\r\n      },\r\n      \"citation\": {\r\n        \"@type\": \"ScholarlyArticle\",\r\n        \"name\": \"The Advanced Care Study: Current Status of Lipedema in Spain, A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study\",\r\n        \"author\": \"Carballeira Bra\\u00f1a A, Poveda Castillo J\",\r\n        \"datePublished\": \"2023\",\r\n        \"isPartOf\": {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Periodical\",\r\n          \"name\": \"International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health\"\r\n        },\r\n        \"url\": \"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37681787\/\"\r\n      }\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\",\r\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/lipedema-faq\/#breadcrumb\",\r\n      \"itemListElement\": [\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\r\n          \"position\": 1,\r\n          \"name\": \"Home\",\r\n          \"item\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/\"\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"ListItem\",\r\n          \"position\": 2,\r\n          \"name\": \"Lipedema FAQ\",\r\n          \"item\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/lipedema-faq\/\"\r\n        }\r\n      ]\r\n    },\r\n    {\r\n      \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\r\n      \"@id\": \"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/lipedema-faq\/#faq\",\r\n      \"mainEntity\": [\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What exactly is lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It is a chronic disease of the adipose tissue that causes a disproportionate increase of fat, almost always in the legs and often in the arms too, with pain or tenderness to the touch. It is not being overweight and it is not cellulite: the tissue behaves differently, which is why it responds differently. The WHO recognises it in ICD-11 with its own code (EF02.2). British spelling is lipoedema; both refer to the same condition. Full detail in what is lipedema.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can lipedema be cured?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"No. Lipedema is chronic and no treatment cures it today, neither conservative nor surgical. What does exist is treatment for its symptoms: compression, drainage and self-care measures reduce pain and heaviness, and surgery can remove part of the affected tissue and improve pain and volume. Any clinic promising a cure is telling you something that does not hold up.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Does lipedema always hurt?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Pain or tenderness to the touch is part of what defines the disease, but the intensity varies enormously between patients and across the day. Some women live with constant pain; others only notice discomfort on pressure, heaviness at the end of the day, or pain when something rubs. Mild pain does not rule lipedema out, and severe pain does not mean it is more advanced.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Why does lipedema appear?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"The cause is not known. What is consistently observed is that it affects almost exclusively women, that it tends to appear or worsen at moments of hormonal change, which points to a hormonal component, and that many patients have other women in the family with the same legs. The detail is in causes of lipedema.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is lipedema hereditary?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"A family history is very common: mother, grandmother, sisters or aunts with the same leg pattern. That points to a familial predisposition, but the specific hereditary mechanism has not been identified and there is no genetic test that confirms or rules it out. Having relatives with lipedema raises the suspicion, not the certainty, and not having them does not rule it out.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"At what age does lipedema start?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It usually shows up alongside a significant hormonal change: puberty, a pregnancy or perimenopause. Puberty is the most common, and many patients describe legs that changed at 13 or 14 and a condition nobody named for decades. It can also become evident later, after hormone treatment or a change in weight.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can you have lipedema and be slim?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Yes, and it is one of the reasons it goes undiagnosed. Lipedema exists at a normal weight: the feature that counts is not the weight but the disproportion between trunk and limbs, together with the pain and the consistency of the tissue. A woman with a small waist and legs that will not change can have lipedema, and has often been told for years that it is a matter of persistence.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can lipedema affect the arms?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Yes. The arms are affected in a substantial share of patients, sometimes at the same time as the legs and sometimes later. The typical pattern is a symmetrical increase on the back of the upper arm that stops at the wrist, just as in the leg it stops at the ankle. More in why arms thicken with lipedema.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Does menopause make lipedema worse?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Many patients report a worsening through perimenopause and menopause: more volume, more pain, or new areas involved. That fits the role oestrogens appear to play in the disease, although the exact mechanism is not established and not everyone experiences it the same way. Where it coincides with weight gain, treating that weight is what helps the leg volume most.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can lipedema be stopped from progressing?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"The assumption that lipedema always progresses, inevitably, is being questioned in recent literature: some patients remain stable for years. What we do know is that added excess weight makes the picture worse, and that controlling it, alongside compression and movement, is what can be offered today to keep it in check. There is no way to guarantee it will not advance.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How do I know whether it is lipedema or cellulite?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Cellulite is a cosmetic change on the surface of the skin, it does not hurt, and most women have it. Lipedema is a disease: the volume is disproportionate, the tissue hurts when pressed, and there are usually palpable nodules under the skin. You can have both at once. The full comparison, with images, is in lipedema vs cellulite.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What is the difference between lipedema and lymphoedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Lymphoedema is a build-up of lymph caused by failed drainage: it pits when pressed, it is usually asymmetrical, and it involves the foot or the hand. Lipedema is a build-up of fat: it is symmetrical, it spares the foot and the hand, and it hurts. They can overlap, and when they coexist over time it is called lipo-lymphoedema. Telling them apart changes the treatment entirely, which is why the assessment includes a vascular study.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is it lipedema or water retention?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Water retention fluctuates: it improves when you elevate the legs, worsens with heat or salt, and changes from one day to the next. Lipedema does not disappear overnight or with rest, because what lies underneath is fatty tissue, not water. Many patients have both, and the fluid component responds to drainage and compression while the fat volume stays.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is lipedema the same as obesity?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"No, they are different things, although they can coexist. Obesity affects the body globally and responds to energy balance; lipedema is a localised, painful alteration of the adipose tissue that is not distributed in the same way. That said, where there is associated excess weight it is worth treating, because losing weight does reduce leg volume and improve symptoms, even though it does not remove the lipedema.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How do I know if I have lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Four signs orient the most: disproportion between trunk and legs, pain or discomfort on pressure, bruising easily, and a sharp cut-off at the ankle or wrist that leaves the foot or the hand unaffected. If several of those sound familiar, it is worth consulting. You can use the lipedema test on this page to organise your symptoms before the visit.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How is lipedema diagnosed?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"The diagnosis is clinical: it rests on the history and the physical examination by a doctor experienced in lipedema. There is no imaging test or blood test that confirms it. What the tests do is rule out what resembles it, above all venous and lymphatic disease. The full process is in lipedema diagnosis.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is an ultrasound useful for diagnosing lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Ultrasound does not give the diagnosis, but it is useful: duplex ultrasound rules out venous insufficiency, varicose veins or the after-effects of thrombosis, all of which change both the diagnosis and the planning of any surgery. In our clinic the vascular study is done by an angiologist on the team within the same assessment, not in a separate circuit.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Which specialist treats lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It is mostly diagnosed and treated by angiology and vascular surgery and by plastic surgery, and what matters most is not the specialty but specific experience in lipedema. In our study of 969 participants, the specialty that signed off the most diagnoses in Spain was vascular surgery, at 50.4%. You can see the medical team.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How many stages and types of lipedema are there?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Four stages, which describe how far the appearance of the tissue has advanced, and five types, which describe where the fat sits. They are two separate, complementary classifications: you can have stage 1 with type III, for example. Each one is explained in stages of lipedema.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Why does it take so long to get diagnosed?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Because for years it has been read as excess weight or as a lack of willpower. In our study, 51.2% of participants had to consult three or more different specialists before receiving a diagnosis. That is not a patient problem: it is a recognition problem, and it explains why so many women arrive at the consultation already fairly clear about what they have.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What is the treatment for lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Treatment has two legs. The conservative one, which is the foundation and is never abandoned: compression, lymphatic drainage, movement, and weight management where there is associated excess weight. And the surgical one, considered when the above does not control the pain or when the volume limits daily life. Neither cures. Developed in lipedema treatment.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Does losing weight help lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Two things need separating. Diet does not remove lipedema fat: it does not respond like normal fat, which is why many patients lose weight from the waist and the face while the legs stay put. But where there is associated excess weight, losing weight does reduce leg volume and improve symptoms, which is why it is part of the treatment. Both sentences are true at the same time.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is there a specific diet for lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"No diet has been demonstrated for lipedema, neither ketogenic nor anti-inflammatory nor elimination-based. What there is evidence for is a healthy eating pattern and managing excess weight where it exists. If a particular pattern eases your swelling, it makes sense to keep it, but be wary of anyone selling a diet as a treatment for lipedema, or banning whole food groups without a medical reason.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What exercise is best with lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Whatever you can sustain over time without increasing your pain. Water-based activity works particularly well, because the water pressure supports drainage and unloads the joints, and so does properly prescribed strength work. The aim is not to slim the leg down, which is what usually causes frustration: it is to maintain mobility, muscle mass and drainage.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What are compression garments for?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"They are the foundation of conservative treatment: they reduce swelling, contain the tissue, and many patients notice less pain and less heaviness at the end of the day. They do not slim the leg or remove fat. Lipedema usually calls for flat-knit fabric and firm compression, often made to measure. Classes, types and use are covered in compression garments for lipedema.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is manual lymphatic drainage useful? Does it hurt?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It helps with the fluid component and the sense of heaviness, and it is usually combined with compression. It does not reduce lipedema fat. Done properly it should not hurt: it is a very superficial, gentle technique, nothing like a deep-tissue or reducing massage. If it hurts or leaves bruises, it is not lymphatic drainage. More in manual lymphatic drainage.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Why does it get worse in the heat?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It is one of the things patients report most in summer: more swelling, more heaviness, more pain. The reasonable explanation is that heat dilates the vessels and pushes fluid into a tissue that already has a drainage problem. What helps: a cool shower over the legs, elevating them, keeping the compression on even when it is uncomfortable, and staying out of the hottest hours.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is there any medication for lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"No drug is approved to treat lipedema. Diuretics are not indicated and can be counterproductive, because the problem is not retained water. Painkillers are used for the pain, not for the disease. Any supplement offered to you as a lipedema treatment deserves a great deal of scepticism and a conversation in the consultation first.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Does lipedema affect mental health?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Frequently yes, and it deserves saying. Living with pain, with a body that does not respond to effort, and with years of being read as a question of willpower carries a real emotional cost. It is not a side issue or a matter of appearance: it is part of the picture and it is worth treating, with psychological support where needed.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Does every patient with lipedema need surgery?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"No. Surgery is neither the compulsory step nor the first one: it is considered when well-delivered conservative treatment does not control the pain, or when the volume limits mobility and daily life. Some patients stay on conservative treatment for years and never need an operation. And there are situations where we do not operate, on medical grounds. Explained in lipedema surgery.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is lipedema surgery safe and effective?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Water-assisted liposuction is the technique with the longest track record in lipedema, with years of use in countries such as Germany, and the available evidence points to sustained improvement in pain and volume. That said, it is surgery: it carries risks, it requires prior assessment, and no result can be guaranteed. The specific risks in your case are explained in the consultation before any decision.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is the surgery permanent?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Fat removed from an area does not re-form there in the same way, and the improvement in pain and volume holds over time in most published series. But the lipedema is still there: it is chronic, it can show up in other areas, and conservative treatment continues afterwards. Having surgery is not closing the subject, it is changing the starting point.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Are Bodyjet, WAL and ACualipo the same thing?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Yes, it is the same technique under three names. WAL stands for water-assisted liposuction, Bodyjet is the best-known device it is performed with, and ACualipo is what we call it, to make it more understandable: it is the clinic's own naming, not a different medical term. The technique is in WAL liposuction.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is the anaesthesia always general?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"No. It can be done under local anaesthesia with sedation, epidural or general, depending on the areas treated, the volume planned and your medical history. The anaesthetist decides it with you at the pre-operative assessment, and it is one of the things worth asking about before choosing where to have surgery.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can thighs and calves be operated on at the same time?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Sometimes yes. Circumferential calves combined with the inner thigh and saddlebags is a frequent combination, and in some cases full thighs and calves can be done in the same procedure. It depends on how much tissue has to be removed and on the safety of the procedure, so we work by priorities: whatever limits you most comes first.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How long should I wait between surgeries?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"If a different area is to be treated, waiting around three months is reasonable, which is what the body takes to recover haematologically. If it means revisiting the same area, longer: the tissue keeps settling for months and the skin retracts for up to around eight, so operating sooner means judging a result that is not final yet.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How much volume can be removed in one operation?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"There is no universal figure: it depends on your weight, your general health, the type of anaesthesia and the anaesthetist's judgement. In our planning we use a safety reference of around 10% of body weight, counting settled fat and not saline, which is why high-volume cases are resolved across several sessions rather than forcing a single one.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Is there more risk if I have varicose veins?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It has to be taken into account and it demands more care during the procedure, even when the varicose veins are superficial. That is why the duplex ultrasound study is done before surgery is indicated and not after: if venous disease shows up, it changes the planning, the order of treatments, and in some cases the indication itself.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Should I be at my target weight before surgery?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It is advisable, and as a reference we do not usually operate above a body mass index of 32. This is not a cosmetic preference: it affects the safety of the anaesthesia, the healing and the quality of the result. In some cases, when excess skin remains after the liposuction, complete treatment of the area includes a later skin-removal procedure.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How is skin laxity improved afterwards?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"The skin retracts on its own over months, so the first thing is to wait and not judge the result too early. In the meantime non-invasive treatments such as radiofrequency, carboxytherapy or lymphatic drainage help: the effect is real but moderate. If excess skin remains at the end and bothers you, a skin-removal procedure is assessed.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Should I have surgery before or after pregnancy?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It depends on your circumstances, and it is a conversation for the consultation. As general guidance, operating beforehand avoids the skin being stretched by pregnancy over an area that has already been treated. In areas treated deeply the same volume does not usually return, although pregnancy is a major hormonal change and can affect untreated areas.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Which areas can be treated? Are arms like legs?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Any affected area can be treated. The usual order is to start with calves and thighs, which is where the limitation is greatest, and treat the arms afterwards. In the arms the technique and the recovery are similar to the legs, with the advantage that the volume is usually smaller and the return to activity faster.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How much time off work will I need?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"It depends on the area, the volume removed and your job. You walk from day one but with restrictions, and compression is worn continuously for weeks. Desk work usually means an earlier return than work on your feet or with physical effort. The realistic timeline for each phase is in recovery after surgery.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"How much does lipedema surgery cost?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"We do not publish price lists, because the cost depends on the areas, the volume to be treated, the number of sessions needed and the type of anaesthesia, and quoting a figure without having seen the case would mean inventing it. What we do is provide the quote in writing after the assessment, with areas and sessions itemised, so you can compare it calmly.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What does the first assessment include?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Clinical history and examination with the surgeon, vascular study with duplex ultrasound by the team angiologist, 3D body scan and body indices, all within the same visit. You leave knowing whether you have lipedema, at what stage and type, the state of your venous system and what your options are. The full process is in the Advanced Care Method.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Where are you and how do I book?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"In Valencia, Spain, at Gran V\\u00eda del Marqu\\u00e9s del Turia, 20, by appointment only, Monday to Friday. You can book on +34 665 027 006 or by leaving your details in the form on this page. Valencia has an international airport with direct connections to most of Europe.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"Can I consult you if I live in another country?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Yes, and it is common. The diagnostic assessment has to be in person, because it relies on the physical examination and the duplex ultrasound. What can be resolved beforehand by phone or video is whether your case fits and what to expect, so the trip is worthwhile. The schedule is arranged so that everything is resolved in a single journey.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What language is the consultation in?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"Consultations are held in Spanish and English. If you would prefer another language, tell us when you book so we can arrange it.\"\r\n          }\r\n        },\r\n        {\r\n          \"@type\": \"Question\",\r\n          \"name\": \"What if my diagnosis is not lipedema?\",\r\n          \"acceptedAnswer\": {\r\n            \"@type\": \"Answer\",\r\n            \"text\": \"You will be told, and pointed towards where it does belong. Ruling out is part of the diagnostic work: distinguishing lipedema from lymphoedema, from venous insufficiency or from other causes of increased volume is precisely what justifies two specialties assessing the same case.\"\r\n          }\r\n        }\r\n      ]\r\n    }\r\n  ]\r\n}\r\n<\/script>\r\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Frequently asked questions Frequently asked questionsabout lipedema The questions we are asked in the consultation, answered by the medical team that sees the patients. Without promising what cannot be promised, and saying plainly what is not known. Request a concierge assessment Take the lipedema test How to use this page Start with the question that [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_header_footer","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4460","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4460","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4460"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4460\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6811,"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4460\/revisions\/6811"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lipedemaac.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4460"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}