What is the Difference Between Lipedema and Lymphedema?

06/01/2025 • Maryella Faratro

Lipedema and lymphedema are both conditions that cause swelling in the limbs, but they have different causes and treatment approaches. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Cause: Lipedema is a connective tissue disorder involving pathologic fatty deposits in the legs and sometimes arms, while lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system.
  • Symmetry: Lipedema appears bilaterally and symmetrically, while lymphedema is often unilateral and may appear to be either symmetrical or asymmetrical.
  • Pitting Edema: Lipedema is non-pitting, and lymphedema involves pitting edema.
  • Location: Lipedema usually doesn't involve the feet, whereas lymphedema frequently involves the feet.
  • Gender: Lipedema almost exclusively affects women, while lymphedema affects both men and women.
  • Treatment: Both conditions may benefit from treatment by a certified lymphedema therapist, but lipedema may also be treated with lymphatic-sparing Lipisuction® surgery.

It is essential to accurately diagnose each condition to receive appropriate treatment. In some cases, patients with lipedema may develop lymphedema due to impaired fluid flow within the body.

Comparative Table: Lipedema vs Lymphedema

Here is a table comparing the differences between lipedema and lymphedema:

Feature Lipedema Lymphedema
Definition A disorder involving pathologic fatty deposits in legs and sometimes arms Accumulation of excess interstitial fluid in the lower extremity that exceeds the capacity of physiologic lymphatic drainage
Causes Thought to be related to hormonal changes, genetic factors, and often seen in family history Caused by damage to the lymphatic system, often due to surgery, infection, or cancer
Symptoms Painful fatty deposits, usually affecting both legs and/or both arms equally, may result in walking/gait abnormality and skeletal issues over time Swelling in the affected area, increased risk of infection and cancer in the affected limbs
Affected Limbs Symmetric, affecting both legs and/or both arms equally Asymmetric, usually affecting one limb more than the other
Gender Prevalence Almost exclusively affects women Affects both men and women, but more prevalent in women
Diagnosis Clinical examination and medical history Clinical examination and medical history, may be assisted by imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI
Treatment Lymphatic-sparing Lipisuction® surgery, may benefit from treatment by a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT) Treated by a certified lymphedema therapist, may include compression garments, bandaging, and exercise

Both lipedema and lymphedema are distinct medical disorders that result in swelling in the arms and legs. They have different causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.

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