Lipedema is a chronic condition that affects millions of women, often causing discomfort, swelling, and emotional distress. At Dr. Ellen’s practice in Bloomfield Hills, MI, we understand the challenges of living with lipedema and are proud to offer advanced treatment options to help you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat tissue, primarily in the legs, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms. Unlike typical fat distribution, lipedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise. Symptoms often include:
- Pain or tenderness in affected areas
- Swelling that worsens throughout the day
- Easy bruising
- A nodular or uneven texture under the skin
This condition predominantly affects women and is often triggered by hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. While its exact cause remains unclear, a genetic predisposition is common.
Advanced Lipedema Treatments
Dr. Ellen specializes in cutting-edge treatments for lipedema to improve both physical health and quality of life. Our comprehensive approach includes:
Tumescent Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is considered the gold standard for surgical lipedema treatment. This minimally invasive procedure removes excess fat deposits while preserving lymphatic structures to reduce swelling and pain. The benefits include:
- Improved mobility
- Reduced pain and tenderness
- Enhanced body contouring
Compression Therapy
Custom compression garments help manage swelling and prevent fluid buildup in affected areas. This therapy is often recommended post-surgery to optimize results.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
MLD is a gentle massage technique designed to stimulate lymphatic flow and reduce swelling. This non-invasive therapy complements surgical treatments by promoting better drainage of excess fluids.
Lifestyle Modifications
Dr. Ellen emphasizes the importance of holistic care, including anti-inflammatory diets, regular low-impact exercise, and stress management techniques to support long-term results.
Who Is a Candidate for Lipedema Treatment?
If you experience persistent swelling, pain, or disproportionate fat distribution that doesn’t respond to traditional weight-loss methods, you may be a candidate for lipedema treatment. During your consultation, Dr. Ellen will perform a thorough evaluation to determine the best approach for your unique needs.
In order to qualify for Lipedema Treatment with Dr. Ellen you must meet the following criteria:
- Have BCBS of Michigan health insurance
- Be a member of Lipedema Coverage Connection Home – Lipedema Coverage Connection
What to Expect During Your Treatment Journey
Consultation
Your journey begins with a personalized consultation where Dr. Ellen will assess your symptoms, medical history, and goals. She’ll create a tailored treatment plan designed to address your specific concerns.
Procedure
For those undergoing tumescent liposuction, the procedure involves injecting a specialized solution into targeted areas before gently removing excess fat using advanced techniques. This outpatient procedure ensures minimal downtime and maximum safety.
Recovery
After treatment, patients may experience mild swelling or bruising but can typically resume light activities within a few days. Compression garments are recommended to support healing and enhance results.
Results
Patients often notice significant improvements in comfort, mobility, and appearance within weeks of their procedure. With proper care and lifestyle adjustments, these results can be long-lasting.
Why Choose Dr. Ellen?
Dr. Ellen is a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience treating complex conditions like lipedema. Her compassionate approach and dedication to patient care have made her a trusted expert in the field of body contouring and reconstructive surgery.
Located conveniently in Bloomfield Hills, MI, Dr. Ellen’s practice serves patients from Troy, Rochester Hills, Farmington Hills, Sterling Heights, and beyond.
Don’t let lipedema hold you back from living your best life. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ellen today by calling our office or filling out our online form. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that helps you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.