Surgical treatment is often the most effective way to manage painful fat accumulation and improve mobility in patients with lipedema. Liposuction offers a proven method for removing diseased fat while preserving lymphatic function—helping patients feel more comfortable and confident in their daily lives.
At Lipedema MD in West Long Branch, New Jersey, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Boris Volshteyn and Dr. Rudolf Thompson perform advanced liposuction procedures tailored to each patient’s stage of disease, anatomy, and goals. With decades of experience in lipedema-specific care, our team understands how to safely approach these complex cases and deliver meaningful results.
What Is Lipedema Liposuction?
Lipedema liposuction is not a cosmetic procedure. It’s a medical approach to removing the fibrotic fat that causes pain, swelling, and limited mobility. This technique targets the legs, arms, or torso to reduce bulk, improve proportion, and relieve symptoms. While it doesn’t reverse the underlying condition, it can significantly improve quality of life.
Lipedema Liposuction Techniques
We use different liposuction modalities based on patient needs, fat density, and treatment area:
Tumescent Liposuction
A foundational technique in all forms of liposuction, this involves infusing a solution of saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine into the tissues to minimize bleeding, ease fat removal, and reduce pain.
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL)
A vibrating cannula helps break up fat with less trauma to surrounding tissues. This method allows for greater precision, reduced swelling, and a faster recovery.
Water-Assisted Liposuction (WAL)
This approach uses a jet of fluid to dislodge fat while gently suctioning it away. It can be helpful in select cases, though it’s less commonly used for high-volume lipedema liposuction.
VASER (Ultrasound-Assisted) Liposuction
Ultrasound energy helps loosen fibrotic fat, making it easier to remove. It may also support mild skin tightening in some patients and is especially helpful in earlier stages of the disease.
Lymph-Sparing Technique
Regardless of the method, we use precise, lymphatic-sparing techniques to avoid damaging vessels and optimize healing.
Lipedema Liposuction by Area
Arms
Treating the arms can restore mobility, relieve heaviness, and dramatically improve upper body balance. Compression garments often become easier to wear and more effective post-procedure.
Torso
Liposuction to the torso—especially the back, hips, and abdomen—can help improve posture, reduce tightness, and alleviate pressure on the spine and joints.
Legs
The most common treatment area, leg liposuction reduces bulk in the thighs, knees, and calves, helping patients walk more comfortably and feel less fatigued.
What to Expect During Surgery
Lipedema liposuction typically lasts 2–4 hours depending on the number of areas treated. Fat removal may be limited to 5 liters in an outpatient setting, though hospital-based procedures can safely accommodate larger volumes. Patients remain under close observation and receive DVT prevention and antibiotics to minimize risks.
Recovery and Pain Management
Most patients experience moderate discomfort for several days after surgery. Compression garments and mechanical lymphatic pumps are key to managing swelling and promoting healing. Because of the lymphatic dysfunction present in lipedema, swelling can persist longer than in typical liposuction cases.
Compression and Long-Term Care
Compression garments are worn long-term to support tissue healing and reduce recurrence. Devices like LymphaPress or Flexitouch may also be recommended after the first week post-op. Follow-up surgeries are spaced approximately three months apart.
When Will I See Results?
Swelling immediately after surgery may obscure your results. Over time, the reduction in volume and improvement in contour become more noticeable, with many patients reporting relief from pain, stiffness, and limited mobility within the first few months.
Why Choose Lipedema MD for Liposuction?
Lipedema MD is a destination practice for patients seeking specialized surgical care. Dr. Boris Volshteyn and Dr. Rudolph Thompson are board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in advanced liposuction methods and lymphatic preservation. They approach each case with a deep understanding of lipedema’s challenges and complexities—performing surgeries in accredited facilities, using refined lymph-sparing techniques, and supporting patients through every phase of treatment.
Our team goes beyond technical skill. We offer full-spectrum support with insurance navigation, preoperative planning, and long-term follow-up so patients can feel confident and cared for from start to finish.
A Smarter Approach to Surgical Relief
If you’re struggling with painful fat and mobility issues caused by lipedema, liposuction may offer the relief you need. Lipedema MD in West Long Branch, NJ, specializes in advanced, lymph-sparing procedures designed to improve function and comfort. Call (732) 641-3350 to schedule your consultation.
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