Liposuction for lipoedema

Lipoedema is a painful, excessive and symmetrical accumulation of fat on the arms or legs, which primarily affects women. A tendency to bruise, even from minor injuries, is typical. In addition, increased fluid retention may occur in the affected areas of the body.

Many people with lipoedema are looking for a treatment that provides long-term pain relief and makes everyday life easier. Liposuction may be one possible option. However, specialists will only consider this option if other treatments have not proved sufficiently effective.

If conservative treatments such as compression garments, exercise, a healthy diet or manual lymphatic drainage do not produce the desired results, liposuction may be the next step.

Doctors assess on a case-by-case basis whether the treatment is appropriate. Liposuction removes the abnormally excessive fatty tissue. It is intended to relieve pain, reduce the volume of the affected areas and improve mobility. The aim of liposuction is not weight loss per se.

Clear quality criteria apply for SBK to cover the costs of liposuction. These rules are designed to ensure your safety and guarantee the best possible treatment.

The first step is always a thorough diagnosis and consultation. The dual-opinion principle ensures that two independent specialists confirm the diagnosis of lipoedema and the need for surgery.

Surgery is only considered if conservative treatments – such as compression stockings, lymphatic drainage or exercise – have not produced the desired results over a period of at least six months. Furthermore, there must not have been any significant weight gain in the last six months.

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is also a decisive factor:

The operation may only be performed by specialists with proven experience in this field.

This service is available on both an outpatient and an inpatient basis. No application is required. The cost is settled directly via the SBK Healthcare card.