Important measures before and after lipedema surgery

Before surgery (beginning 6 weeks before operation):

  • Blood check-up from GP, especially blood count and hemoglobin/iron levels. Please send us results at least 1-2 weeks before flying. In case of abnormalities, begin with Iron/Vit. B complex/folate substitution supplements after consulting with your GP.
  • Other examinations necessary (ECG, spirometry etc) will be decided after discussing your case with the anaesthesiology team 
  • Intensify your Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) therapy
  • Arrange MLD appointments for immediately after returning to your country of residence
  • Wearing your flat-knit, class 2 compression garments (including feet but open toe) regularly throughout the day  (it is preferable to have 2 sets of compression garments so that you can have one on while the other one is getting washed)
    • If you are using Lipoelastic, you can use the discount code DRIAKOVOS10
  • Avoiding extreme dieting (the goal before operation is weight stabilization through a healthy nutrition)
  • Swimming/biking (the goal is to precondition your circulatory system for a quicker convalescence period)
  • Gathering all relevant documentation in regards to medical history/past lipedema treatment
  • Booking a flexible flight ticket in case you need to prolong your stay. You should arrive 2- 3 days before the operation and leave 7-10 days after the operation
  • Book airport assistance for your flight back home
  • Book a travel insurance in case of medical emergencies not associated with your surgery

Operation day:

  • Avoid using any form of lotions/creams on areas to be treated
  • Fasting 6 hours before operation
  • Bringing your compression garments with you in the operating theater

After surgery:

  • Standing up/walking in your compression garments, beginning on day of surgery
  • Wearing your compression garments 23h/day for at least 6 weeks
  • Thrombosis prophylaxis until sufficient mobilization is achieved/return to country of residence
  • Intensified MLD therapy beginning on 1st postoperative day (daily if possible for the first 7 postoperative days), for at least 6 weeks (we recommend taking a pain killer 30-60 minutes before going to your MLD appointment).
  • Showering with water for the first few days without any shower products
  • Using products for reduction of swelling and bruising e.g. Arnica gel, Heparin cream
  • Consider supplementing iron, Vitamin B12, Folate and Vitamin C
  • Begin with scar care (massage, scar cream) after the 3rd week. Avoid direct sunlight on scars for 6 months.
  • Begin with a balanced diet with a goal of BMI reduction to healthy levels 
    • Unfortunately no universally accepted lipedema-diet exists, consider consulting with a nutritionist preferably with experience in lipedema to discuss options (eg low-carbohydrate diet)
  • Begin with light exercising/physical activity (taking long walks, swimming/hydrotherapy, biking) after the 3rd week; contact sports and sauna allowed after the 6th postoperative week
  • Time period of at least 3 months between operations

Any Questions?

Contact us

or

Fill the form

Scroll to Top