Merryn's Lipedema Surgery

I have a condition called lipedema . Lipedema is a long term (chronic) condition of fat and connective tissue which builds up in the legs, hips, buttocks and sometimes the arms. The built up fat, which is resistant to exercise and diet, is painful and heavy. My lower half and arms are all affected. They kind of feel like beanbags- which is the nodules of fat.

I am less active than I wish to be, due to my legs and arms feeling heavy-it's a lot of effort to move them sometimes!

I struggle to find trousers that fit and they are often uncomfortable, especially at the end of the day when my legs are swollen. I have lost around 20kg over the last 10 years and still have to wear the same size trousers due to my legs, which shows just how resistant and extreme it can be!

Unfortunately the NHS does not offer surgery for lipedema. I am trying to get them to prescribe compression wear, which is one method of helping control the associated pain and fluid retention.

Getting surgery with the specialist team 'Lipemedical' would mean I will have less pain and heaviness, less fluid retention and finally be able to buy clothes that actually fit me and feel comfortable in myself both physically and mentally.

I would need 2-3 surgeries on my legs, and 1 on my arms to get the best results. Each surgery is £5k and takes place in Madrid. This requires staying 10 days for recovery until I am able to fly back to the UK.