Have you ever felt like your legs or arms do not match the rest of your body, no matter how much you diet or exercise? For many people, this can feel frustrating, confusing, and even isolating. In some cases, the issue may not be normal weight gain. It could be lipedema, a chronic disorder that is often misunderstood or mistaken for obesity.
In Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Thomas Pane, MD, brings extensive surgical training and years of experience in aesthetic, plastic, and cosmetic surgery to every appointment. As a double-board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Pane helps patients better understand concerns about disproportionate fat and explore appropriate care options.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a medical condition that causes an abnormal buildup of fat, most often in the legs, hips, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms. It usually affects both sides of the body in a fairly even pattern.
Unlike typical fat, lipedema fat can feel painful, heavy, or tender. Many people also notice easy bruising, swelling, or a lumpy texture under the skin. The feet and hands are often not affected, which may create a noticeable “cuff” at the ankles or wrists.
How Is Lipedema Different From Normal Weight Gain?
Normal weight gain usually occurs when the body stores extra fat across multiple areas. While everyone gains weight differently, diet, activity level, and overall habits often play a role.
Lipedema is different because the fat tends to collect in specific areas and may not respond the same way to diet and exercise. A person may lose weight in the face, chest, or waist while the legs or arms stay disproportionately large.
Common signs that may point to lipedema include:
- Disproportionately larger legs, hips, or arms
- Pain, tenderness, or heaviness
- Easy bruising
- Swelling that worsens later in the day
- Fat that feels nodular, uneven, or rubbery
- Little change in affected areas after weight loss
When Should You See a Specialist?
You may want to seek medical guidance if your lower body or arms seem out of proportion, feel painful, bruise easily, or do not change much with weight loss.
A specialist can review your health history, examine the affected areas, and discuss possible next steps. There is no single test that confirms lipedema in every patient, so an in-person evaluation is important.
Call Thomas Pane, MD, to Discuss Your Concerns
Lipedema is not the same as normal weight gain, and understanding the difference can help you make more informed choices about your health and body. If you are concerned about painful, disproportionate fat in your legs, hips, or arms, Thomas Pane, MD, in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, can help you explore your options. Call +1 561-422-4116 to request a consultation.