Lipedema Liposuction
in Fort Myers, FL

Exert BodySculpt in Fort Myers provides advanced lipedema liposuction for individuals struggling with stubborn fat accumulation that resists traditional weight loss efforts. Our specialized procedure targets the diseased tissues while preserving the surrounding structures. We use state-of-the-art techniques to reduce discomfort, enhance mobility, and refine overall body proportions. Patients can expect a comprehensive treatment plan that prioritizes both medical and aesthetic outcomes.

What Is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic, progressive disorder characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat cells, primarily in the legs, hips, and sometimes arms. Unlike regular obesity, lipedema fat is distributed symmetrically and disproportionately, often creating a distinct appearance in which the upper body remains relatively slim while the lower extremities enlarge. This condition predominantly affects women, typically beginning or worsening during hormonal transitions, such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Patients with lipedema experience pain, tenderness, easy bruising, and a heavy sensation in affected limbs. Notably, the fat deposits associated with lipedema are resistant to traditional weight loss methods, making it a frustrating and often misdiagnosed condition that requires specialized treatment approaches.

Stages of Lipedema

Lipedema progresses through distinct stages, each marked by changes in fat distribution, texture, and associated symptoms:

Stage 1

Fat accumulation appears smooth and soft, with an even texture. Swelling may occur but typically resolves with rest.

Stage 2

Fat deposits become more nodular, and the skin develops an uneven, mattress-like appearance. Bruising and tenderness increase.

Stage 3

Large fat masses accumulate, leading to significant contour irregularities. Mobility may be affected as excessive fat deposits grow heavier.

Stage 4

Lymphedema develops, causing severe swelling and hardening of the tissues. Skin folds and larger fat overhangs contribute to functional limitations.

Can Liposuction Address Lipedema?

Specialized liposuction addresses lipedema by removing unwanted fat cells that do not respond to diet and exercise. This medical procedure targets problematic areas using a thin tube called a cannula, specifically designed to extract the fibrous tissue while preserving lymphatic vessels. Liposuction can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and halt disease progression when performed by our experienced cosmetic surgeons. The procedure provides substantial symptom relief and prevents the advancement to later stages where complications like lymphedema may develop.

Preparation for Lipedema Liposuction

Preparation for lipedema liposuction begins with an initial consultation where patients discuss their medical history, symptoms, and expectations with our surgeons. During this critical first step, we assess the stage and distribution of lipedema, determining appropriate treatment areas while explaining the liposuction procedure. Pre-operative preparation typically includes:

Laboratory testing
Medication adjustments (particularly avoiding blood thinners)
Wearing compression garments for several weeks before surgery to reduce swelling and prepare tissues
Nutritional counseling may also be recommended to optimize surgical outcomes, as proper hydration and a balanced diet support healing.

Surgical Procedure

Pre-Operative Markings

Before liposuction, our surgeon carefully marks the target areas while the patient stands. These markings outline the regions of lipedema tissue to be treated, highlighting places of fat accumulation, irregularities, and asymmetry. Our surgeon pays particular attention to preserving the natural body contours while identifying the problematic deposits, ensuring a systematic and thorough approach to the upcoming extraction process.

Patient Preparation

The procedure begins with medication to ensure patient comfort. Anti-anxiety drugs help reduce nervousness and promote relaxation, while anti-nausea medications prevent post-operative discomfort. These drugs are carefully dosed based on the patient’s medical history and anticipated procedure duration.

Tumescent Solution

Tumescent liposuction is the foundation of the lipedema procedure. Large volumes of tumescent solution — containing a mixture of local anesthetic (lidocaine), epinephrine, and saline — are injected into the target areas. This solution serves multiple crucial functions: it numbs the treatment zone, constricts blood vessels to minimize bleeding, and makes fat easier to remove. Our surgeon methodically injects this solution throughout all marked areas, allowing sufficient time to take full effect before proceeding.

Incisions

Strategic micro-incisions, typically 3-4 mm long, are made in inconspicuous locations around the treatment areas. They serve as access points for the specialized cannulas used in fat extraction. Our surgeon carefully positions these small openings to provide comprehensive treatment while ensuring they will be minimally visible after healing.

VASER Ultrasound

Ultrasonic energy is applied through specialized probes inserted through the incisions. This energy selectively emulsifies the excess fat while preserving surrounding structures like nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. The VASER probe transforms fat into a liquefied state that is significantly easier to remove with subsequent suction, which is particularly important in the fibrous areas characteristic of lipedema.

Power-Assisted Liposuction

Alternatively, power-assisted liposuction (PAL) technology may be employed. This technique utilizes a motorized cannula that moves back and forth, enhancing our surgeon’s ability to extract emulsified fat through controlled, methodical passes. We systematically address each treatment area, working in multiple planes and directions to ensure uniform fat reduction.

Extraction and Contouring

The final phase involves the meticulous extraction of the targeted lipedema tissue. Our surgeon uses specialized cannulas connected to a vacuum system to remove the unwanted fat using precise movements. We continuously evaluate symmetry, contour, and tissue reduction. After removing fat deposits, our surgeon closes the incisions with sutures.

Renuvion Skin Tightening

After lipedema liposuction, Renuvion skin tightening can enhance results by addressing skin laxity in treated areas. This technology uses helium plasma and radiofrequency energy to contract collagen fibers beneath the skin, creating a more contoured appearance. Renuvion offers a minimally invasive way to address sagging and achieve better rejuvenation.

Recovery After the Liposuction Procedure

First 24 Hours

The immediate post-operative period focuses on pain management and initial recovery. Patients remain in compression garments that control swelling and support the newly contoured areas. Significant drainage of tumescent fluid mixed with blood is normal during this time. Movement is limited but essential, with short walking recommended to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Medications help manage discomfort, while patients should maintain proper hydration and rest with elevated limbs to minimize discomfort.

Week 1

During the first week, drainage gradually decreases while bruising and swelling typically peak. Compression garments remain mandatory 23 hours daily, removed only for showering. Patients gradually increase walking distance but should avoid strenuous activities. Pain transitions to soreness and tenderness in treated areas. Initial liposuction results remain obscured by swelling, though some individuals notice positive changes in limb heaviness. Proper wound care is essential, with attention to keeping incision sites clean and protected. Most patients take the entire week off work to focus on recovery.

Weeks 2-4

This period marks a significant improvement in comfort and mobility. Swelling gradually decreases, offering glimpses of emerging results as tissue healing progresses. Light exercise like walking and gentle swimming may resume, though high-impact activities remain restricted. Most patients return to sedentary work. However, those with physically demanding jobs typically require additional recovery time. Manual lymphatic drainage treatments often begin during this phase to aid fluid mobilization and reduce fibrosis risk.

Months 2-6

The final recovery phase brings continued refinement of liposuction results as swelling subsides. Most patients resume all normal activities. The treated areas continue to improve in appearance and feel as tissues adapt and heal. Follow-up appointments monitor progress and address any concerns. Patients typically see excellent results by month six, though subtle improvements may continue for up to a year.

Candidates for Lipedema Liposuction

Lipedema liposuction is considered for individuals who meet specific criteria related to their diagnosis, health status, and treatment history. The procedure is not a general fat removal method but a targeted approach for those affected by this condition. Candidates typically include:

Individuals with a confirmed lipedema diagnosis
Those experiencing persistent symptoms despite conservative treatments
Patients in good overall health without uncontrolled medical conditions
Individuals with stable body weight and no significant fluctuations
Those seeking relief from disproportionate fat accumulation rather than general body contouring

Benefits of Lipedema Liposuction

Lipedema liposuction addresses the unique challenges of fat accumulation associated with the condition, providing functional and aesthetic improvements. The procedure is designed to remove unwanted fat while preserving surrounding structures, offering several key benefits:

Reduces painful and disproportionate fat deposits
Improves mobility and overall comfort
Enhances body symmetry and contours through a minimally invasive approach
Involves the use of local anesthesia, decreasing risks
Helps slow the progression of lipedema symptoms
Supports a more active and healthy lifestyle by easing physical limitations

Cost of Lipedema Liposuction in Fort Myers, FL

The cost of lipedema liposuction in Fort Myers ranges from approximately $6,000 to $20,000 per session, depending on the severity of the condition, the number of areas treated, and the specific techniques employed. Patients can receive accurate price quotes during the initial consultation with our specialists. We also provide flexible Financing options to make lipedema liposuction more affordable and convenient.

What Makes Our Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Exert BodySculpt offers a focused approach to lipedema treatment, guided by the surgical experience of Dr. Giselle Prado-Wright and Dr. Kim Le. Located in Fort Myers, our facility combines medical knowledge with thoughtful surgical technique to support patients managing this complex condition.

Rather than using a one-size-fits-all method, our surgeons adapt their techniques to better address the specific characteristics of lipedema. These individualized protocols aim to reduce discomfort and improve mobility while being mindful of the sensitivity of the lymphatic system.

Our surgical center is equipped with modern tools designed to support precise fat removal with the goal of minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues. This careful approach reflects our broader commitment to patient-focused care across a range of body contouring procedures, including tummy tucks and facial rejuvenation.