How To Know If You Have Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic condition that mainly affects women, causing an abnormal buildup of fat cells in the legs, arms, and sometimes the buttocks. This isn't the same as regular weight gain. With lipedema, fat is distributed unevenly, often making your limbs feel heavy, painful, and sensitive to the touch. It can also cause easy bruising and swelling. Lipedema is a progressive condition, meaning it can worsen over time if left untreated. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

How To Know If You Have Lipedema? Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.

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

What Is Lipedema Treatment

Dr. Markelov is a leading expert in the treatment of lipedema, a chronic condition that causes abnormal fat accumulation in the legs, arms, and other areas. He specializes in awake liposuction procedures for lipedema patients, eliminating the risks of general anesthesia. Using the most advanced liposuction techniques, Dr. Markelov achieves outstanding cosmetic and functional results for his patients. He frequently performs liposuction of the arms and legs 360 degrees (circumferentially) to address fat deposits and create a smoother, more natural contour. This approach not only improves the appearance of the affected areas but also helps to alleviate pain, swelling, and other symptoms associated with lipedema. The awake liposuction procedure minimizes downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily activities sooner. 

Abnormal FAT deposits? Expert tips about LIPEDEMA
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Why Choose Dr. Markelov? A Plastic Surgeon Specializing in Lipedema Treatment

Dr. Markelov is a leading expert in the treatment of lipedema, renowned for his extensive knowledge, experience, and dedication to patient care. He has helped thousands of patients achieve life-changing results, attracting individuals from around the globe to seek his expertise. A highly accomplished and respected plastic surgeon, Dr. Markelov holds double board-certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, and honed his surgical skills at the prestigious University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. His commitment to advancing the field is evident through his presentations at international conferences, publications in leading journals, and dedication to teaching, reflected in numerous awards and academic appointments mentoring future surgeons.

Tumescent Lymphatic Sparing Liposuction Technique for Lipedema

No More Stubborn Fat! Tumescent Liposuction Technique for Lipedema

Awake Arm Liposuction 360: Tailored Treatment
for Lipedema

Lipedema doesn't just affect the lower body—it can also impact your arms, causing disproportionate fat accumulation, discomfort, and even pain. Dr. Markelov has exceptional expertise in arm liposuction, particularly in the "360 arm liposuction" technique, where the entire circumference of the arm is addressed. This approach provides significantly more dramatic results, effectively slimming the arms and revealing the underlying muscle contours for a beautifully sculpted appearance. It also encourages skin shrinkage by aiding in skin redistribution around the new arm shape. Dr. Markelov performs this procedure using advanced techniques that allow for minimal discomfort, a quick recovery, and minimal downtime, so you can enjoy your new, toned arms with confidence.

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.

Awake Arm Lipo 360 For Lipedema

Awake Arm Lipo 360 For Lipedema
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How Liposuction Can Help

Liposuction is a highly effective treatment for lipedema, offering patients the potential for significant symptom relief, including lighter legs, reduced swelling, and improved mobility. By precisely removing excess fatty tissue while carefully avoiding the lymphatic vessels, Dr. Markelov can address lipedema in various areas, such as the arms, legs, and ankles. The majority of patients experience a dramatic reduction in symptoms and an improvement in their overall quality of life.

Dr. Markelov takes a personalized approach to each patient's care. He begins by thoroughly explaining the procedure and actively listening to their concerns and desired outcomes. Then, considering their unique circumstances and the specific characteristics of their lipedema, he determines if liposuction is the right path to help them achieve their body goals.

How Many Liposuction Procedures Are Needed for Lipedema?

Lipedema of the lower extremities often requires multiple liposuction treatment sessions to achieve optimal results. The exact number of procedures will vary based on the extent of the severity of lipedema and your individual goals. While some individuals may see significant improvement with a single session, others may require two, three, or more to address all affected areas. It's important to consult with an expert in lipedema care, such as Dr. Markelov, a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in lipedema treatment. Dr. Markelov will work with you to develop a personalized plan, assess your specific needs, and recommend the most appropriate number of sessions to help you achieve your goals. 

How Many Liposuction Procedures Are Needed for Lipedema?

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 or drains

Expect to wear a compression garment and experience light bruising and swelling. Lymphatic drainage massages are highly beneficial after lipedema liposuction as they help to reduce swelling, stimulate the lymphatic system, and promote healing by facilitating the removal of excess fluids

Lipedema Treatment Before & After Photos

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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.

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

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

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AM Plastic Surgery is committed to excellence

Dr. Markelov views liposuction as an art form, carefully studying each patient's unique anatomy and sculpting the targeted areas to enhance their natural musculature and achieve harmonious results. Committed to providing an exceptional patient experience, Dr. Markelov offers both in-person and virtual consultations to accommodate local and out-of-town patients. To begin your journey towards a more confident you, contact AM Plastic Surgery in Tampa today.

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