Categories: Body AcceptanceFitness and CookingLipedema

The Stages of Lipedema

Lipedema is a disease that slowly progresses with time. Each person progresses at their own rate, and it can take ten or more years to move from stage 1 to stage 3 or 4. Early-stage diagnosis is ideal, so it’s important to understand the symptoms associated with each stage.

Stage 1

Lipedema starts with smooth skin that may feel normal on the surface, but hard lumps are starting to form beneath the top layers of skin. Those lumps are nodules formed by enlarged deposits of subcutaneous fat. The nodules are referred to as lipomas.

Other symptoms of the disease may or may not start to present at this stage.

Stage 1 Lipedema Symptoms:

Stage 2

Stage 2 is diagnosed when the surface skin transitions from smooth to a dimpled, lumpy appearance. Many people believe they are developing cellulite at this point, so they may not seek medical treatment if they aren’t also experiencing pain or obvious bruising.

One key difference between lipedema and cellulite is swelling. Cellulite doesn’t come with any swelling or cause pain.

Stage 2 Lipedema Symptoms:

Stage 3

Stage 3 is diagnosed when large lipomas develop, creating extrusions of fat extending from the body in affected areas. These oversized collections of hardened subcutaneous fat are the result of increased inflammation and reduced circulation of blood and lymph fluids due to the thickening and hardening of tissues.

At this stage, most people will notice the change in body shape and skin appearance. Pain and bruising can become more substantial in this stage as well.

Stage 3 Lipedema Symptoms:

Stage 4

Stage 4 is declared when a diagnosis of lymphedema is delivered. Lymphedema is characterized by a damaged lymphatic system that can no longer process lymph drainage efficiently. That leads to fluid building up inside the body and worsening lipedema symptoms.