Stages
and types
Lipedema is a chronic, progressive fat distribution disorder. It is classified into three stages and four types.
The severity is classified by the treating doctor using the appearance of the skin and palpation.
The three stages of lipedema
The four types of lipedema
While staging lipedema considers the appearance of the skin and the tissue, which parts of the body are affected becomes relevant when classifying the types of lipedema.
Type 1: The subcutaneous fat accumulates mainly around the buttocks and hips. The result is the ‘riding breeches’ look.
Type 2: Lipedema extends to the knees. More fat accumulates on the insides of the knees.
Type 3: The disease extends from the hips to the ankles. The feet are not affected.
Type 4: The lipedema now also affects the arms. Wrists and hands are not affected.