Lipedema surgery is a significant step in treatment, and each stage—before, during, and after surgery—plays an important role in a patient’s overall outcome.
Lipedema surgery represents an important milestone in a patient’s care journey. The Advanced Lipedema Treatment Program at The Roxbury Institute recognizes the physical and emotional impact of this condition and the significance of moving forward with surgical treatment, which for many patients is not only a personal choice but also a medical necessity.
Our role is to combine leading-edge surgical expertise with a deep commitment to patient well-being, providing comprehensive care grounded in ongoing research and delivered by a multidisciplinary team specializing in lipedema. Every aspect of the process, from the initial consultation to long-term follow-up, is approached with precision, safety, and empathy. This overview is designed to share what patients can expect before, during, and after surgery, reflecting our dedication to delivering both exceptional outcomes and a supportive treatment experience.
Preparing for lipedema surgery is a collaborative process between the patient and the care team. At the Advanced Lipedema Treatment Program at The Roxbury Institute, we provide detailed pre-operative guidance to ensure that every medical, logistical, and supportive element is in place well before surgery day.
Because lipedema surgery is distinct from cosmetic liposuction, it requires advanced training, highly specialized techniques, and a deep understanding of the disorder. Many patients come to us after months or years of trying conservative measures such as compression garments, anti-inflammatory diets, or gentle exercise, only to find that these approaches have not provided the relief they need. Surgical treatment offers the opportunity to address the underlying fat deposits and significantly improve quality of life; these results can be further supported when combined with conservative approaches such as compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and gentle, low-impact activity before and after surgery.
Our team works closely with each patient to prepare for surgery, from completing necessary medical evaluations to ensuring compression garments are fitted and post-operative care plans are in place. This level of preparation helps create the conditions for a safe procedure and a smooth, well-supported recovery.
Key considerations before surgery include:
Choose a surgeon who not only meets the highest standards of technical expertise but also provides compassionate, clear communication from consultation through recovery. Extensive experience with lipedema surgery and a proven track record of safe, effective outcomes are essential.
At the Advanced Lipedema Treatment Program at The Roxbury Institute, Dr. David Amron, Founder and Medical Director of The Roxbury Institute, and Dr. Karen Herbst, Ph.D., M.D., Head of Research and Director of Diagnostic and Preventative Medicine at The Roxbury Institute, are internationally recognized leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of lipedema. Dr. Amron has developed and refined specialized surgical techniques that remove diseased fat while preserving the lymphatic system, improving patient comfort, mobility, and long-term outcomes. Dr. Herbst, a board-certified endocrinologist, is one of the world’s foremost authorities on lipedema, with research and clinical work that have advanced both the medical understanding and treatment of the condition.
Together, they lead a multidisciplinary team dedicated exclusively to lipedema care. Patients are treated in a state-of-the-art facility where safety, precision, and comfort are top priorities. From the first consultation to the final follow-up, our team remains a consistent and trusted point of communication, ensuring that every patient feels informed, supported, and cared for at every stage of their surgical journey.
Organizing documentation, including insurance information, financing applications, and required medical test results, well in advance can help prevent last-minute delays. Having all logistics in place allows patients to focus on the healing process rather than administrative tasks.
Pre-operative assessments, such as blood tests and a review of current medications or supplements, are important for identifying and managing potential surgical risks, including anemia or clotting disorders.
If you smoke, stopping as far in advance of surgery as possible is critical for healing. Quitting permanently also offers significant benefits for long-term health.
A nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet supports tissue repair, immune function, and overall health. Adequate protein from lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, and legumes is especially important for post-surgical healing.
Low-impact exercise and light resistance training can help maintain muscle tone, protect joint health, and improve stamina before surgery, all of which can support recovery.
Wearing properly fitted compression garments prior to surgery prepares tissues for post-operative lymphatic drainage and helps support the body’s new contours after the procedure.
Arrange for help with daily activities, childcare, and transportation during recovery. Emotional readiness is as important as physical preparation, and having a reliable support network can make a meaningful difference in the healing process.
Understanding the potential risks, expected recovery timeline, and anticipated results is essential for both emotional and physical well-being. Every patient’s journey is unique, and outcomes vary based on the severity of the condition, the surgical plan, and individual healing patterns.
For many patients, the day of surgery represents a turning point in their lipedema care. At the Advanced Lipedema Treatment Program at The Roxbury Institute, procedures are performed using The ALT Method, a proprietary lymphatic-sparing technique developed specifically for the safe and effective treatment of fat disorders such as lipedema and lipo-lymphedema.
The ALT Method utilizes tumescent local anesthesia, often with minimal sedation. This approach allows for the precise removal of fibrotic fat while preserving delicate lymphatic structures, helping to minimize surgical risks and promote a smoother recovery.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our surgical team and guided through the pre-operative process. The treatment areas will be marked, and local anesthesia will be administered to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. The surgery is performed in a state-of-the-art surgical suite, using advanced techniques to remove diseased fat while protecting lymphatic pathways.
Following surgery, compression garments are applied to support lymphatic flow, reduce swelling, and help contour the treated areas. Our team will review your post-operative instructions in detail before you are discharged.
When performed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, The ALT Method can significantly reduce pain and swelling, restore mobility, and improve quality of life for patients with advanced lipedema and lipo-lymphedema.
Lipedema Surgery Recovery Timeline: Best Post-Operative Practices for Lipedema Surgery
Recovery after lipedema surgery is an active process, and following your surgeon’s instructions closely is essential to achieving the best possible outcome. At the Advanced Lipedema Treatment Program at The Roxbury Institute, our team provides detailed, individualized post-operative care plans and remains in close contact throughout your recovery to answer questions and make adjustments as needed.
In most cases, patients are encouraged to begin light walking shortly after surgery to promote circulation and support healthy lymphatic flow. Early movement helps reduce the risk of complications, aids in healing, and can positively influence the recovery timeline.
Compression therapy is a key part of post-operative care. You will be fitted for medical-grade compression garments, which should be worn as directed — typically around the clock, except for bathing, during the initial weeks after surgery. Compression helps manage swelling, supports lymphatic drainage, and assists in shaping your body’s new contours.
Additional recovery guidelines may include:
Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, though strenuous activity should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon. Balancing gentle movement with adequate rest supports a smooth recovery and helps ensure long-term benefits from your procedure.
Lipedema surgery is a significant step in managing this chronic condition, and understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help patients make informed decisions about their care. While there are many misconceptions about both the disorder and its treatment, the following points reflect the expertise and approach of Advanced Lipedema Treatment at The Roxbury Institute:
At the Advanced Lipedema Treatment Program at The Roxbury Institute, our mission is to provide world-class surgical care alongside the education, resources, and follow-up support patients need for long-term success. If you have been diagnosed with lipedema and are considering surgical treatment, we invite you to schedule a consultation to explore the treatment options best suited to your needs.
