June is Lipedema Awareness Month: a time to educate, advocate, and empower women who are affected by this underdiagnosed condition. At the Laser Lipo and Vein Center, Dr. Thomas Wright and his team are committed not only to raising awareness but also to helping patients understand the science behind lipedema, including how it differs from what many consider “normal fat.”
Lipedema isn’t just about appearance or weight gain; it’s a distinct medical condition with unique symptoms and characteristics. For too long, women with lipedema have been told to “just lose weight,” when in reality, no amount of dieting or exercise will shrink lipedema fat. To properly treat it, we must first understand it.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a chronic, progressive fat disorder that primarily affects women. It is characterized by the buildup of fibrotic, painful fat, most commonly in the legs, hips, buttocks, and sometimes arms. The fat associated with lipedema is not the same as normal subcutaneous fat. It is often resistant to traditional weight loss methods and can lead to swelling, mobility issues, pain, and bruising.
Many patients spend years—or even decades—being misdiagnosed with obesity or lymphedema before finally learning that their symptoms align with lipedema. That’s why awareness is so critical.
Lipedema Fat vs. Normal Fat: What’s the Difference?
To appreciate how lipedema affects the body, it’s important to understand how lipedema fat is different from normal body fat.
- Location and Symmetry
- Normal fat is typically distributed based on overall body composition, lifestyle, and genetics. It accumulates in both the upper and lower body and responds proportionally to diet and exercise.
- Lipedema fat accumulates disproportionately in the lower body (legs, hips, and thighs), often sparing the feet and hands. It presents symmetrically on both sides and does not respond to caloric restriction or physical activity.
- Texture and Structure
- Normal fat is generally soft and uniform in texture.
- Lipedema fat is firmer, nodular, and often painful to the touch. It may feel lumpy or thickened under the skin and is often associated with fibrosis (hardening of tissue).
- Pain and Sensitivity
- Normal fat is not typically painful.
- Lipedema fat can be extremely painful, even with light pressure or touch. Bruising is common due to fragile blood vessels within the tissue.
- Inflammation and Fluid Retention
- Normal fat does not usually cause swelling or inflammation on its own.
- Lipedema fat can cause inflammation and lead to secondary lymphedema in later stages, resulting in fluid retention and worsening mobility.
- Response to Weight Loss
- Normal fat typically decreases with diet and exercise.
- Lipedema fat remains unchanged despite aggressive weight loss efforts, which can lead to frustration, shame, and emotional distress.
For a more detailed breakdown, visit our comprehensive guide at Lipedema.net: Normal Fat vs. Lipedema Fat.
Why Lipedema Awareness Month Matters
So many women live with the symptoms of lipedema without ever receiving a proper diagnosis. They are dismissed, misdiagnosed, and told their pain is “just part of being overweight.”
This month is about correcting that narrative.
By raising awareness of the condition and educating the public on how lipedema fat differs from normal fat, we can empower more women to seek the right diagnosis and care. It’s not vanity. It’s not a lack of discipline. It’s a legitimate medical condition that deserves compassionate treatment.
How We Help at the Laser Lipo and Vein Center
Dr. Wright is a nationally recognized leader in the diagnosis and treatment of lipedema. Our approach combines advanced imaging, thorough clinical assessments, and a range of treatment options, including conservative therapies such as compression and manual lymphatic drainage, as well as lipedema reduction surgery.
We work closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans that address both the physical and emotional aspects of this complex condition.
Take Action This Lipedema Awareness Month
If you think you may have lipedema, or you’ve been struggling with stubborn fat in your legs or arms that doesn’t respond to weight loss, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in your long-term health and quality of life.
Here’s how to get started:
- Schedule a consultation with Dr. Wright
- Join a lipedema support group to connect with others (Lipedema Sisters USA, Lipedema Support Group, Lipedema Foundation)
- Share this article with friends, family, or your primary care provider
You Are Not Alone
Lipedema is real, and help is available. At the Laser Lipo and Vein Center, we believe every woman deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported on her journey.
Let this month be the start of a new chapter, one filled with answers, relief, and confidence.
Visit www.laserlipoandveins.com to schedule a consultation or call us at (636) 614-1665. We’re here for you.
