Emma Griffiths first noticed her legs were growing out of proportion with the rest of her body when she was around 11 years old. It wasn’t until she saw Love Island contestant Shaughna Phillips with similar-shaped legs that she started researching her condition. The experts online suggested lipoedema, a condition that causes abnormal fat build-up mainly in the hips, buttocks, and legs, leading to a disproportionate shape. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, Emma’s legs remained larger, prompting her to seek medical attention.
Lipoedema affects about one in 10 people worldwide, but many are unaware they have it. Emma managed her condition through healthy living, compression stockings, and other techniques to alleviate swelling and pain. Liposuction surgery removed four liters of fat from her thighs, providing some relief but not curing the condition completely. Gemma Robinson, who also struggled with lipoedema, underwent multiple surgeries to remove excess fat and skin from her legs, spending a significant amount in the process.
Despite the physical and psychological challenges of lipoedema, some women have struggled to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Many patients have reported their symptoms being dismissed as cellulite, obesity, or growing pains by healthcare professionals. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) does not recommend liposuction for chronic lipoedema, except for research purposes. There have been calls for more support and awareness of lipoedema among healthcare professionals to ensure early diagnosis and appropriate treatment for those affected.
Specialist organizations like Lipoedema UK are advocating for more specialists who can accurately diagnose the condition. Dr. Cheryl Pike from Lymphoedema Wales Clinical Network emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals believing their patients and referring them for appropriate care. The Welsh government is working closely with the NHS to raise awareness of lipoedema and provide support for patients in need. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of liposuction for individuals with lipoedema, with hopes for improved access to necessary treatments in the future
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