Women with lipedema in the legs live with unbearable pain and invisible symptoms. We need to raise awareness in Singapore so patients can get proper care.
May 15, 2025
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Lipedema may look like obesity, but it is not a weight-related issue. While it can contribute to obesity and a person with obesity can also have lipedema, they are not related and are two separate conditions.
Unlike obesity, which can be managed through diet and exercise, lipedema does not appear to respond to these interventions in the same way.
Due to the similarity in appearance, lipedema is also often mistaken for excessive lymphedema or cellulite.
So, how do you spot if you have lipedema, and how do you self-diagnose lipedema in the comfort of your own home?
Symptoms of lipedema | How to spot if you have lipedema in the arms and/or legs?
Lipedema is an abnormal fat build-up medical condition that usually affects women.
It is characterised by the uneven distribution and disproportionate accumulation of fat and its supporting connective tissues.
The areas most commonly affected include the legs, arms, and buttocks, causing a disproportionate appearance compared to the other parts of the body.
Lipedema is classified into four stages based on the severity of symptoms and appearance and is categorised into five types according to the location of the fat deposits.
What are the early signs of lipedema in the arms and legs?
The early signs of lipedema in the arms can include:
- disproportionate increases in arm circumference
- pain
- tenderness
- easy bruising
- sensitivity to touch or pressure
- heaviness in the affected areas
Early signs of lipedema in the legs may show:
- symmetrical swelling
- a "spongy" or cool sensation in the affected areas
- easy bruising
- upper body is much smaller than the affected legs
Self-diagnosing lipedema at home with the pinch test
The only way to self-diagnose lipedema is through a pinch test.
The pinch test for lipedema involves gently pinching the affected area. The goal of the pinch test is to assess the skin texture, pain response, and how the tissue feels.
During the pinch test, if the affected area has any pain or feels different in texture compared to other areas of your body, you may be suffering from lipedema.
However, the pinch test should not be regarded as a definitive diagnosis.
Limitations of the Lipedema Pinch Test
The lipedema pinch test is easy to do at home, but it is not entirely reliable. Many factors can affect the results, such as how severe the lipedema is and whether it overlaps with other conditions.
The symptoms of lipedema can also look like other skin concerns or medical conditions. Because of these limitations, you should not rely only on this test.
If the test suggests you might have lipedema, it is important to seek a professional opinion for further evaluation and an accurate diagnosis.
What can be mistaken for lipedema?
Lipedema can be mistaken for a variety of conditions. It can also be confused with other fat disorders.
Besides obesity and cellulite, here is a list of conditions that can be confused with lipedema.
Diagnosis of lipedema in Singapore
Lipedema is generally diagnosed through a physical examination, where the doctor looks for specific signs associated with the condition, such as an abnormal fat buildup of fat in the legs, arms, hips or buttocks.
On top of the physical exam, the doctor will take a detailed medical history. This includes asking about the patient's symptoms, family history, and any previous diagnoses related to swelling or fat distribution.
Since there is no single test to confirm lipedema, physicians also consider other conditions resembling it.
By evaluating these factors, doctors can arrive at a more accurate diagnosis.
Treatments for lipedema in Singapore
Unlike fat gain, the fat build-up in a patient with lipedema cannot be reduced with a calorie-deficit diet and regular exercise.
Objectives of the lipedema surgery treatment can be different for each patient depending on the severity of the condition and the location of the affected area.
Understanding each patient’s needs is imperative to offer the best treatment that meets patient requirements to promote a better quality of life.
FAQ on lipedema in Singapore
What not to do when you have lipedema?
To manage lipedema, avoid activities like high-impact exercises and unhealthy food choices such as high-glycemic foods, processed foods, and drinking too much alcohol that can make symptoms worse.
Be careful with non-invasive treatments like cryolipolysis (fat freezing), as it could worsen the condition.
What is the life expectancy of someone with lipedema?
Lipedema mainly affects the quality of life by causing pain, mobility issues and disfigurement, but it is generally not life-threatening.
What worsens lipedema?
Lipedema is a long-lasting condition that cannot be cured. However, early treatment can prevent it from getting worse. Many patients may also face obesity and distress, which can make the condition and complications worse.
How do you stop lipedema from progressing?
Key strategies to stop lipedema from progressing include:
- eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly
- keeping a healthy weight
- seeking early treatments, depending on how severe your symptoms are and how they affect your daily life
What is the root cause of lipedema?
Lipedema occurs almost only in women, suggesting that female hormones may play a role in its development. It may also run in families, as many patients report difficulty losing weight in the lower body.
What happens if lipedema is left untreated?
Lipedema can worsen if not treated, leading to complications such as pain and reduced mobility.
