Abnormal FAT deposits? Expert tips about LIPEDEMA

Abnormal FAT deposits? Expert tips about LIPEDEMA

What is lipedema treatment?

Do you have excess fat that you just can’t seem to lose, no matter how much you diet or exercise? Hard work with no results can be dispiriting. However, the problem may be lipedema, a disease that causes an above-average accumulation of fat in the thighs, legs, ankles, and arms.

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Why choose Dr. Markelov? A plastic surgeon specializing in lipedema treatment

Dr. Markelov has undergone rigorous training in some of the country's best medical schools. Due to his education and experience, his practice regularly attracts a large number of patients who suffer from lipedema. Here is a limited selection of Dr. Markelov’s credentials and awards:

  • Double board-certified 
  • Attended the prestigious University of Pittsburgh Medical Center for plastic surgery training
  • Published in medical journals worldwide
  • Garnered a Patients’ Choice Award as well as multiple teaching awards at alma mater Drexel University College of Medicine at Easton Hospital

Lipedema Treatment Before & After Photos

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Awake Arm Liposuction 360: Tailored Treatment
for Lipedema

Lipedema is a long-term condition characterized by an abnormal fat buildup, particularly in the limbs, and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Traditional liposuction may not always produce comprehensive outcomes in situations where the arms are affected.

Dr. Markelov specializes in a cutting-edge technique, Awake Arm Liposuction 360, specifically tailored for individuals with lipedema. This method involves removing fat not only from the lower part of the arms but comprehensively from all around, leading to more significant size reduction and more pronounced results. The procedure also encourages skin shrinkage by aiding in skin redistribution around the new arm shape.

While an arm lift or brachioplasty may still be necessary, the awake nature of the procedure sets it apart by eliminating the requirement for general anesthesia. This not only makes the process more interactive, allowing patients to participate in arm positioning for better results, but also speeds up recovery and reduces the associated risks of general anesthesia.

Key aspects of Dr. Markelov’s distinctive approach include the following:

  • Awake procedure
  • Quicker recovery and no general anesthesia risks
  • Liposuction performed 360 around the entire arm circumference for more significant results and improved skin redistribution around the new arm shape

Awake Arm Lipo 360 For Lipedema

Awake Arm Lipo 360 For Lipedema
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Lite Life™Comprehensive Lipedema Treatment Program with Dr. Alexey Markelov

Our specialized program for treating lipedema offers a comprehensive approach centered on advanced liposuction techniques designed to provide optimal outcomes with minimal risk and discomfort. Dr. Alexey Markelov is a renowned expert in the field and a leading specialist in treating lipedema, utilizing cutting-edge techniques to ensure the best possible results for his patients.

Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. This includes the number and timing of treatment sessions if multiple procedures are necessary. Additionally, skin excision is incorporated whenever appropriate to ensure optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.

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Key aspects of Dr. Markelov’s Lite Life™ Treatment Program include the following:

  • Awake procedure: This reduces risks associated with general anesthesia, facilitates a smoother recovery, and allows for immediate patient feedback during the surgery 
  • Rapid recovery: Our protocols are designed to minimize the need for narcotic pain medications, promoting a faster recovery process 
  • No drain use: Our techniques eliminate the need for surgical drains to improve comfort and convenience post-surgery
  • Specialized liposuction techniques: The advanced liposuction methods we use allow for safely extracting the maximum amount of fat with minimal discomfort

Our program attracts patients from across the United States and around the world, all seeking Dr. Markelov's expertise and innovative techniques. Experience the difference with our specialized lipedema treatment program and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable life.

No More Stubborn Fat! Tumescent Liposuction Technique for Lipedema

No More Stubborn Fat! Tumescent Liposuction Technique for Lipedema

More about Lipedema

The primary symptom of lipedema is a buildup of fat in the legs and arms. The texture of the fat is grainy, similar to the feel of peas or rice. Additional symptoms of lipedema include:

  • Pain
  • Loose skin
  • Swelling
  • Increased bruising

Most cases of lipedema occur in women. Symptoms typically appear around significant hormonal shifts like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. There is still much to be learned about lipedema, including what causes it. However, genetics may play a role. As lipedema progresses, the fat cells block vessels in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for fluid balance in the body. When the lymphatic system is blocked, it cannot drain lymph fluid, causing it to build up. While there is no cure for lipedema, liposuction can help.

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How liposuction can help

Liposuction removes the lipedema fat while avoiding the lymphatic vessels. Whether your lipedema affects your arms, legs, or ankles (causing ‘cankles’), liposuction can help remove the excess fatty tissue.

Dr. Markelov explains the procedure to the patient and listens to them describe their ideal results. Then he considers their specific case of lipedema and determines if liposuction will help them reach their body goals.

Awake and Painless Fat Removal: Too Good to be True?

Awake and Painless Fat Removal: Too Good to be True???

What can I expect from my procedure?

During the procedure, a long narrow tube, or cannula, is used to dislodge fat via small incisions near the targeted areas. Once the fat is dislodged, it is removed using a surgical vacuum. Most liposuction procedures last between one and four hours depending on the size of the targeted area.

Dr. Markelov also performs Awake Liposuction for lipedema, which requires only local anesthesia and reduces potential surgery complications. He creates small pokes that can be closed with glue, not stitches, which leads to minimal downtime and a faster recovery.

Who qualifies for treatment?

If you feel self-conscious about excess fat due to lipedema and want to have the slim, attractive limbs, then liposuction may be an ideal option. Here are some other signposts that Dr. Markelov considers: 

  • Diet and exercise don’t help to reduce the fat in the target area
  • You have grounded expectations and want realistic results

Can someone with a normal body weight still have lipedema? 

Yes, someone who is athletic and fit can have leg Lipedema, even with a normal weight and body mass index (BMI). Lipedema is a chronic condition that causes abnormal fat accumulation in the legs, and sometimes the arms. It is not caused by being overweight or inactive. Lipedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise, so even fit individuals may require specialized liposuction for treatment.

Dr. Alexey Markelov is a double board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in Lipedema treatment with a specialized awake liposuction technique. He strives to achieve not only better functional but also cosmetic outcomes for his patients. Majority of the patients can get much slimmer looking legs in only one awake treatment session.

The CRUCIAL Lipedema Information You Can't Ignore

The CRUCIAL Lipedema Information You Can't Ignore

Recovery

Dr. Markelov specializes in short recovery times and has seen patients go back to their desk job the next day. Typically, patients need about a week or two to return to their regular activities, and a little longer before they can engage in strenuous exercise or contact sports. Patients can expect the following:

  • Back to light activity the same day
  • A return to normal activity in about one to two weeks
  • Non-narcotic pain medication works in most cases
  • No stitches

Expect to wear a compression garment and experience light bruising and swelling. One week after liposuction, patients are advised to perform gentle massages to move around accumulated fluid and smooth over the treated areas. This will decrease swelling.

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AM Plastic Surgery is committed to excellence

Liposuction is more than just a fat removal procedure to Dr. Markelov. He studies each patient’s body and sculpts the desired area in a way that enhances their existing musculature. Dr. Markelov is committed to an excellent patient experience and he offers everyone a complimentary video consultation. To begin, contact AM Plastic Surgery in Tampa today.

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