Recognizing and treating lipedema – When fat cells grow abnormally

Individual assistance at InGold Aesthetics in Bern and Zug

Heavy, painful legs despite exercise and a healthy diet?  Many women in Switzerland experience exactly this – often for years, without a clear diagnosis. If legs or arms appear increasingly voluminous despite physical activity, pressure pain occurs, and bruising occurs easily, the cause could  be lipedema  .

This  chronic fat distribution disorder , which almost exclusively affects women, cannot be influenced by exercise and diet. It is accompanied by pain, swelling, and significant suffering – both physical and emotional.

As a specialized clinic for plastic and aesthetic surgery , InGold Aesthetics in Bern and Zug offers  modern, medically sound solutions for lipedema treatment in Switzerland.

What is lipedema – and how does it develop?

Lipedema is a  hormonally influenced fat distribution disorder in which pathologically altered fatty tissue accumulates primarily in the legs, hips, and sometimes the arms. The condition often manifests during periods of hormonal change—such as  puberty, pregnancy, or menopause  —and progresses slowly but steadily if left untreated.

Typical symptoms:

• Disproportionate increase in adipose tissue (e.g., slim upper body, heavy legs)
• Pressure sensitivity and pain
• Frequent hematomas without a discernible cause
• Swelling, especially in the evening or in warm weather
• Emotional stress due to limitations in everyday life and body image

Lipedema stages: How severe is the disease?

Lipedema is divided into three stages:

• Stage I:  Soft fatty tissue, smooth skin surface
• Stage II:  Nodular thickenings, irregular skin
• Stage III:  Large fat deposits, significant increase in volume and skin changes

Regardless of the stage, quality of life can be severely affected – the earlier treatment begins, the better.

Treatment options for lipedema

Conservative therapy: Conservative measures serve to alleviate the symptoms, but cannot remove the diseased fatty tissue:

1. Compression clothing (flat knit)
2. Manual lymphatic drainage
3. Exercise (e.g. aquafitness, Nordic walking, cycling)
4. Nutritional support and weight management

Surgical therapy – liposuction

Liposuction  is currently the only method that permanently removes diseased fatty tissue. At  InGold Aesthetics,  we rely on particularly  gentle techniques that are precise and leave minimal scarring . 

• Water-jet assisted liposuction (WAL)
• Tumescent technique
• Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL)  of firm tissue

Goals of liposuction:

• Pain reduction and pressure relief
• Harmonizing the body silhouette
• Improvement of mobility and everyday functioning
• Reduction in the need for compression clothing
• Strengthening self-confidence and quality of life

After liposuction: What do I need to be aware of?

At InGold Aesthetics you receive a  tailor-made aftercare concept that promotes healing and long-term success:

• Wear compression garments for at least 6–8 weeks
• Manual lymphatic drainage and rest during the first few days
• Early mobilization and moderate exercise
• Support with nutrition and skincare
• Individual follow-up examinations by our specialists

Cost coverage – Who pays for lipedema treatment in Switzerland?

Liposuction for lipedema is  currently only covered by statutory health insurance in Switzerland in exceptional cases  . Prerequisites include documented conservative therapy of at least six months, a specialist diagnosis, and an advanced stage of the disease.

We actively support you with  documentation, application processes, and communication with your health insurance company . For self-paying patients, we create  fair and transparent offers , individually tailored to your situation.

Why choose InGold Aesthetics for your lipedema treatment?

• Specialized doctors for aesthetic and plastic surgery
• State-of-the-art, gentle liposuction techniques
• Local anesthesia, twilight sedation or general anesthesia – depending on preference and indication.
• Personal, discreet service
• High-quality aftercare
• Locations in  Bern and Zug  – central and discreet

FAQ – Lipedema Treatment Switzerland

How do I find the right clinic for lipedema treatment? Look for experience, specialization, and holistic care – like at InGold Aesthetics.

Which stages can be treated? All stages – with particularly good results when treatment begins early.

How long does recovery take after surgery? The first week is for rest; after 6–8 weeks, a full recovery is usually achieved.

FAQ – Liposuction for Lipedema in Switzerland

Can I have multiple areas treated at the same time? Yes, depending on the extent and stage of the treatment, it will be planned individually.

Is the procedure painful? Thanks to modern anesthesia and technology, the treatment is largely painless.

How long do I need to wear compression garments? Usually for six to eight weeks – we will advise you individually.

FAQ – Lipedema Clinic Switzerland

What sets InGold Aesthetics apart? Our combination of medical precision, aesthetic standards, and empathetic care.

Do I need a doctor’s referral? Not necessarily – an appointment can be arranged directly (depending on the insurance plan).

How many treatments are necessary? Usually 1–3 sessions, depending on the extent of the illness.

FAQ – Lipoedema Cost Coverage Switzerland

When does health insurance cover liposuction? In cases of severe lipedema from stage II onwards with documented prior treatment.

How much does it cost if you pay out of pocket? From CHF 4,500 per session – depending on the technique and scope.

Is compression clothing reimbursed? In many cases, yes – depending on the insurance company.

Conclusion: Don’t let lipedema hold you back any longer.

Lipedema is a serious condition – but you are not helpless against it. At  InGold Aesthetics in Bern and Zug,  we support you with empathy and professionalism on your journey to greater well-being, ease, and quality of life.

Schedule a free consultation appointment now – we will take our time for you.