Lipoedema is a chronic disease that mainly affects women and is characterized by a painful fat distribution disorder. The right compression plays a central role in lipoedema treatment and can significantly improve your quality of life. Whether flat knit or round knit, stockings or tights – the choice of compression garments is large and many women are faced with the question of which is the right one.
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about compression for lipoedema, the differences between flat-knit and circular-knit compression underwear and practical tips for everyday life.
Compression is a fundamental component in the treatment of lipoedema, as it has several positive effects on the affected tissue. The targeted pressure improves lymphatic drainage and reduces the accumulation of fluid in the tissue. This leads to a noticeable alleviation of typical symptoms such as a feeling of tightness and pressure pain.
Compression also supports the return flow from the veins and lymph vessels – even at rest, 50% more fluid flows back out of the legs. Compression therapy is particularly effective in combination with exercise, as the muscles then also work against the compression material, thus increasing decongestion.
Even if compression cannot cure lipoedema, it makes a decisive contribution to alleviating the symptoms of lipoedema and improving the quality of life of those affected.
Flat knit and circular knit products differ in terms of their manufacture and area of application. While circular knit products provide milder compression and are used in particular for venous disorders (varicose veins), flat knit products allow more precise adjustment to individual needs, which is particularly important for lipoedema. Flat knit compression is always made to measure in order to achieve the best possible compression for you.
After lipoedema surgery, especially in the first few weeks of healing, flat knit is particularly valuable as it provides targeted compression in the various affected areas such as the thighs, hips and calves. This precise distribution of pressure not only promotes the removal of swelling and fluid, but also stabilizes the newly formed tissue and supports healing. Flat knit products are therefore ideal for securing the post-operative result in the long term by reducing the formation of haematomas and lymphatic congestion and optimizing blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.
At the LipoClinic, we therefore rely on flat knitting to offer our patients a particularly effective and individually tailored therapy.
In addition to compression stockings, compression of the arms is also an important part of lipoedema treatment. Special compression sleeves, also known as boleros, exert targeted pressure on the tissue and support lymph drainage. You can obtain these from us in conventional sizes after the arm operation.
Compression therapy for the arms is often carried out in combination with manual lymphatic drainage to enhance and prolong the effects of the treatment. Modern compression sleeves are not only medically effective, but are also available in different colors and designs, which makes daily use of the therapy easier. After an operation, however, the use of round knit boleros is possible. As the removal of swelling from the arms is much easier and quicker, a circular knit garment is sufficient in most cases.
The daily routine with compression for lipoedema can be challenging at first, but can be managed well with the right strategies. The best time to put on the compression is directly after getting up in the morning, when the swelling is still minimal. Take advantage of this moment, as this is when the compression is easiest to put on.
Practical tips for dressing and undressing:
Proper care is essential for all-day comfort. Ideally, you should wash your compression garments every day or at least every other day. This maintains the elasticity and extends the life of the materials.
For optimum comfort in everyday wear:
Compression is particularly important during sporting activities, as the combination of movement and compression also supports decongestion in lipoedema. Choose breathable materials and make sure you drink enough fluids. If your circumference changes due to weight loss or after liposuction, you are entitled to a new pair of flat knit trousers. Do not hesitate to contact your trusted medical supply store.
Remember: optimally fitting compression is the key to successful treatment for lipoedema.
Compression garments and fashionable style do not have to be mutually exclusive. Many manufacturers now offer a wide range of colors, patterns and designs that make it possible to integrate compression therapy into everyday life in style. Choose compression stockings in trendy colors or with modern patterns that match your wardrobe. This allows you to make your compression not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing.
For special occasions, there are elegant compression stockings that are made with fine fabrics and inconspicuous seams so that they can be worn discreetly under festive clothing. When choosing clothing, make sure that it is not too tight to avoid pressure points and increase comfort. Soft, flowing fabrics and casual cuts are particularly suitable for concealing compression and adding fashionable accents at the same time.
Accessories such as boots that can be worn over compression stockings or fashionable scarves and shawls that cover compression sleeves offer additional ways to look stylish and confident. Be inspired by current fashion trends and discover how versatile and chic compression garments can be. Not only will you help to improve your health, but you will also feel fashionable.
At LipoClinic Dr. Heck, we understand the complex challenges of living with lipoedema. As the world’s leading clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of lipoedema, we rely on a holistic therapeutic approach in which compression plays a central role.
Our team will not only support you in choosing the right compression for lipoedema, but will also provide you with advice and assistance afterwards. Our approach is based on years of experience in the treatment of lipoedema and a deep understanding of the physical and psychological aspects of fat distribution disorders.
Get in touch with us and make an appointment for a consultation at LipoClinic Dr. Heck today!
Medi: The new S2k guideline on lipedema. (https://www.medi.de/arzt/therapietipps/lipoedemtherapie-lymphoedemtherapie/leitlinie-lipoedem/)
Dr. Thomas Witte is Medical Director of LipoClinic Dr. Heck and a specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery. With decades of surgical experience and a deep understanding of the individual needs of lipoedema patients, he is one of the leading experts in this field. His focus is on holistic, safe and empathetic care – always with the aim of restoring quality of life.
Medical Director
Specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery
Specialist in surgery and hand surgeon
