The Effects of Surgical Lipedema Therapy on Psychological Variables in Younger Patients between 18 and 35 Years

Abstract

Lipedema is a chronic inflammatory fat distribution disorder that largely affects women. This article addresses the effects of surgical lipedema therapy to changes in the constructs of self-esteem, quality of life, body image, and the development of depressive symptoms. The thesis assumed improvement in the aforementioned variables after liposuction. Using a combination of evaluated questionnaires, a survey instrument was designed and completed by 48 (=N) female lipedema patients (18-35 years). The study showed highly significant results regarding a decrease in depressive symptoms, postoperatively. Statistically significant positive effects on quality of life and body image were also found. In addition, 97.9% of the patients interviewed stated that they had experienced a reduction in pain as a result of liposuction. In 95.8%, liposuction boosted in an improvement in mobility. In summary, the results show that liposuction not only provides physical relief, but also significantly reduces psychological stress and improves quality of life. The results support the assumption that liposuction is a recommendable means for the treatment of lipedema due to its multiple positive effects.