New Lipoedema 2024 guideline - current recommendations for therapy and diagnostics

Since the publication of the new S2k guideline on lipoedema in January 2024, there have been numerous important innovations for sufferers and treating physicians. For the first time, this guideline provides comprehensive and updated recommendations on diagnosis, treatment decisions and modern treatment methods. It serves as binding orientation for doctors and patients and helps to reduce uncertainty. In this article, we summarise the most important innovations in a comprehensible manner and supplement them with valuable expert opinions from the experienced specialists at LIPOhelp®.

What exactly does the new S2k guideline Lipoedema 2024 cover?

The S2k guideline Lipoedema 2024 was drawn up by a renowned panel of experts consisting of specialists in plastic surgery, vascular surgery, dermatology and representatives of physiotherapy and nutritional counselling. The aim was to establish uniform standards to improve the care of lipoedema patients in order to create a reliable basis for diagnosis and treatment in both Germany and Austria.

The most important new features of the S2k guideline Lipoedema 2024

The revised guideline integrates the latest scientific findings and emphasises in particular the relevance of early diagnosis and interdisciplinary treatment. The key innovations are

• Increased focus on early and differentiated diagnostic methods
• Clear differentiation from lymphoedema and obesity
• Extension of the recommendations for liposuction as a recognised form of surgical therapy
• Emphasising the importance of psychological and nutritional support
• Integration of patient-centred approaches into therapy planning

Dr Florian Bönke from LIPOhelp® explains:

„This new guideline is crucial as it finally sets binding standards. Early and precise diagnosis forms the foundation for the overall success of treatment and ensures that patients can benefit from effective treatment measures at an early stage.“

Diagnostic recommendations for doctors and patients

The S2k guideline explicitly recommends that doctors:

• A detailed medical history and physical examination
• Diagnostic tests such as the tried-and-tested pinch test and the Stemmer test for differentiation. To our lipoedema test
• Detailed differential diagnostics to differentiate lipoedema from obesity and other fat distribution disorders

Prof Dr med Niclas Broer, Head Physician at the Munich Bogenhausen Clinic and specialist at LIPOhelp®, emphasises:

„Early diagnosis is crucial. We see every day how much timely treatment can positively influence the course of lipoedema and enable sufferers to significantly improve their quality of life.“

Treatment recommendations - conservative and surgical

The guideline makes a clear distinction between conservative and surgical treatment options:

Conservative therapy

This includes proven methods such as

• Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
• Compression therapy
• Exercise therapy and individual nutritional counselling

Dr Sonja Kästner (LIPOhelp® Cologne):

„Conservative therapy plays a key role in alleviating symptoms and makes a significant contribution to improving patients“ quality of life in the long term."

More info about the conservative lipoedema treatment

Surgical therapy - liposuction (SmartSculpting):

The new guideline particularly recommends liposuction as the most effective method for advanced lipoedema:

• The minimally invasive SmartSculpting technique allows the particularly gentle removal of abnormal fat cells
• Long-term relief of symptoms and improvement in quality of life are scientifically proven

Prof Dr Paul Heidekrüger of LIPOhelp® emphasises:

„Liposuction according to the latest standards is now considered the gold standard, as it provides lasting relief from symptoms and significantly improves quality of life.“

More info about the Lipoedema surgery

Expert opinions from LIPOhelp®

The doctors at LIPOhelp® have extensive experience and implement the new guidelines on a daily basis. Prof. Dr Niclas Broer (Munich Bogenhausen Clinic) adds: „For us, the guideline is an important tool for providing our patients with even more targeted and individualised treatment. Interdisciplinary therapy in particular enables long-term success.“

Conclusion - significance of the new 2024 guideline

The S2k guideline Lipoedema 2024 represents a significant step forward. It creates clarity, promotes early and correct diagnosis and emphasises the importance of individualised, comprehensive treatment. Patients benefit from the improved quality of care and long-term results that lead to greater well-being and enjoyment of life.

Link to the study

Arrange an individual consultation now

Take advantage of the expertise of our experienced specialists and arrange your individual consultation today. Consultation appointment.