Lipedema is characterized by a noticeable, symmetrical increase in fat on the legs and arms. Those affected often complain of pain, tension, an unpleasant feeling of heaviness, and increased sensitivity to pressure. The unusually rapid formation of bruises can also be a sign.

There are typical areas where the diseased fat is excessively visible, which tend to be spared in unaffected women. These include, among others, the inside of the knees, the front inside of the upper lower legs, around the ankles, above the elbows, and behind the knees.

A characteristic feature is that the fat distribution is disproportionate to the rest of the body – often the upper body remains slim, while the lower body or arms are visibly affected. Symptoms worsen over the course of the day, in warm weather, or after prolonged exertion.

The exact cause of lipedema has not yet been conclusively determined. However, it is believed that hormonal factors combined with a genetic predisposition are crucial.

Lipedema often occurs familial, especially during periods of hormonal change such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Possible involvement of the lymphatic system is also being discussed, as many affected individuals also experience water retention.

It is important to note that lipedema is not a result of excess weight or lack of exercise and cannot be treated by losing weight or exercising.

The diagnosis is made in Cologne during a personal consultation with Dr. Kai Klasmeyer, a specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery with many years of experience in lipedema therapy.

The diagnosis of lipedema is still a diagnosis of exclusion and is primarily clinical. This means that a combination of a physical examination and the medical history, the course and symptoms can be used to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of lipedema.

After a detailed medical history, we conduct a physical examination, pay attention to the typical fat distribution and test pain sensitivity (e.g. with the pinch test).

Our practice in Cologne offers you a trustworthy and professionally sound environment for your diagnostics – discreet, individual and at the cutting edge of medicine.

The aim of treatment is to alleviate symptoms, harmonize body proportions and prevent the progression of the disease.

Conservative measures such as compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise and an adapted diet (e.g. ketogenic or anti-inflammatory) can help to alleviate symptoms – but they cannot cure lipedema.

Liposuction has proven to be an effective and sustainable solution. At Klasmeyer Aesthetics in Cologne, we use the particularly gentle WAL method (water jet-assisted liposuction), which selectively removes fatty tissue while protecting lymphatic vessels, nerves, and blood vessels.

Thanks to our specialization in this procedure, we can offer you a treatment focused on safety, precision and lasting results.

The WAL method (water jet assisted liposuction) is an innovative procedure that was specifically developed for the gentle removal of pathological fatty tissue.

At Klasmeyer Aesthetics in Cologne, we use this technique to not only relieve lipedema patients of pain and restricted movement, but also to restore their natural body shape.

A pulsating water jet gently separates the fatty tissue from the connective tissue, which is simultaneously suctioned out. The surrounding tissue is largely spared—particularly important in lipedema, where there is a risk of damage to lymphatic vessels.

The method aims to alleviate symptoms, stop the progression of lipedema and improve the patient's quality of life in the long term.

Aftercare is a key component of treatment success. At our practice in Cologne, you will receive an individually tailored aftercare plan and close meshed support.

Follow-up examinations will take place on scheduled days immediately after the procedure. The stitches are usually removed after about 10 days.

Wearing a specially fitted compression garment for a period of six to eight weeks is essential to minimize swelling, stabilize the tissue, and ensure the aesthetic result.

Furthermore, manual or mechanical lymphatic drainage must be initiated promptly after surgery. This should be performed regularly during the first few weeks after surgery to minimize swelling and thus improve the healing process.

Of course, we are also available to answer any questions you may have or arrange additional check-ups – your well-being is most important to us.

To make the procedure as safe as possible, you should not take any blood thinning medications (e.g. ASA, Plavix, Marcumar) or GLP-1 agonists (e.g. Ozempic, Mounjaro etc.) for at least 14 days before the operation.

Alcohol and nicotine should also be avoided in the days before the procedure, as these have a negative effect on wound healing.

In a personal consultation with Dr. Klasmeyer in Cologne, we will clarify all important details with you, record your individual medical history and discuss how you can best prepare for the operation.

Together we create the best conditions for a successful procedure and a quick recovery.

We love to work with you as a team. Together we can achieve the best possible results. Ultimately, it's your health that counts.