Lipoedema stages: Which stage affects you?

Stage 1: Painful symmetrical fat distribution disorder

In stage 1 lipoedema, many women confuse their condition with being overweight. This is why they do not visit the doctor, but instead try exercise and a change in diet. Some also suspect cellulite as the cause.

Fat accumulation in the abdominal area is not usually attributable to lipoedema, but it is on the arms and legs. In addition, the fat distribution disorder causes pain at every stage of lipoedema. Even in lipoedema stage 1, there can be impairments in everyday life.

Although lipoedema cannot be cured even in stage 1, those who consult a doctor early on can start suitable treatment as soon as possible. Various measures such as lymphatic drainage, compression or liposuction are used, which our interdisciplinary team specialises in. You should also get enough exercise: sport helps to prevent lipoedema from progressing to the next stage.

Symptoms of stage 2: Additional wave-like dents in the skin surface

Stage 2 lipoedema is already more advanced, as the initially slight thickening continues to spread. The body contours become deformed and the fat deposits become larger. It is also typical of stage 2 lipoedema that pain, swelling and sensitivity to pressure increase more and more.

Symptoms of stage 3: pronounced increase in circumference with fatty flaps

Lipoedema stage 2 and lipoedema stage 3 merge seamlessly into one another. There can be years in between. However, hormonal fluctuations can also cause lipoedema to reach stage 3 more quickly. This is why lipoedema can worsen during pregnancy, puberty or the menopause.