Lipoedema is not the same as lymphoedema. It typically involves painful, disproportionate enlargement of fatty tissue in the limbs, especially the legs; the arms may also be affected. Diagnosis requires careful medical assessment. Symptoms, fat distribution and possible associated conditions are considered together. Conservative measures, such as compression and movement to relieve symptoms, are planned individually. Liposuction may be considered under certain conditions. Its indication, limitations, risks and ongoing care must be discussed personally. Cosmetic liposuction and treatment for lipoedema differ in their goals and planning.
If you are considering treatment, you can request a personal specialist consultation by email. Confirm the responsible doctor and treatment location beforehand.
VASER technology
Mc Aesthetics · KNOWLEDGE
Research, explained
A relevant original study, its measurements and its limits. The findings describe studied groups, not your personal outcome.
Science, visualisedPUBMED ·
Less pain — and what burden comes alongside it?
LIPLEG compared liposuction with conservative treatment for lipoedema. At twelve months, relevant pain reduction was more common after surgery, as were serious adverse events.
Share of each group · %
Pain: 190/278 versus 10/132. Serious events: 20/265 versus 5/145. Rounded study rates; analysis populations differ.
How to read this chart Pain relief does not mean cure. Serious adverse events are a separate study category; 36-month follow-up is ongoing.
Data & study design+
410 women randomized at 11 German centres. Pain endpoint: at least 2 points less on a 0–10 scale at 12 months. Efficacy by allocation; safety assessed separately.
Share of each group · %
Group / time point
Study value
Pain reduced by ≥2 points · Liposuction
68
Pain reduced by ≥2 points · Conservative
8
Serious adverse events · Liposuction
8
Serious adverse events · Conservative
3
VASER is an ultrasound-assisted liposuction technique. Ultrasound may be used to treat fatty tissue before suction. Suitability for a particular body area or for lipoedema depends on the findings and the responsible doctor’s experience. A technical name does not prove superior effects or lower risks in every case. Alternative techniques, possible tissue damage and aftercare requirements should also be discussed. It does not establish any claim to having the greatest or longest experience in Germany.
The process
Illustrative image
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction such as VASER uses ultrasound energy to treat fatty tissue before suction. A suitable fluid solution is often introduced into the planned areas first. The loosened fat and some fluid can then be removed through cannulas. The precise technique depends on the area, tissue and goals. Assisted methods remain surgical procedures and can damage tissue, vessels or nerves. Lipoedema treatment requires particular attention to the medical indication and continuing care. Lymphoedema is a different condition and must not be treated as equivalent. The method is therefore chosen only after careful examination and informed discussion. VASER alone cannot guarantee a particular contour or especially short recovery.
The consultation
Aesthetic treatments also carry risks. A particular result, a pain-free experience or an uncomplicated recovery cannot be guaranteed. Your medical consultation should include an individual explanation of the risks.