Lipedema and postoperative care
Introduction: Liposuction has become one of the main surgical interventions for the treatment of lipedema, being associated with a reduction in clinical symptoms and improvement in patients’ quality of life. Postoperative management is recognized as a key factor for maintaining surgical outcomes and preventing complications. Objective: To review and synthesize strategies used in the postoperative care of liposuction for patients with lipedema, emphasizing the role of compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage in functional recovery and symptom control. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted, considering publications from the past ten years in international scientific databases. Articles addressing postoperative interventions following liposuction for lipedema were included, encompassing physiotherapy protocols, compression therapy, lymphatic drainage, mobilization, and skin care. Studies that did not detail postoperative management or focused on other pathologies were excluded. Results and Discussion: Analysis of the literature indicates that integrated postoperative protocols comprising early use of compression garments or bandages, manual and mechanical lymphatic drainage, graded exercises, and skin care significantly reduce edema, pain, fibrosis, and postoperative complications. The gradual progression from passive to active mobilization, combined with adjustable compression, enhances functional recovery and promotes fluid reabsorption, reducing dependence on conservative therapies. Conclusion: Although there is no absolute consensus on the ideal postoperative protocol, current evidence demonstrates that the integration of compression therapy and manual lymphatic drainage is the most effective strategy for postoperative care in patients undergoing liposuction for lipedema. Individualized, multidisciplinary protocols are essential to ensure lasting results, symptom relief, and improved quality of life, serving as a reference for clinical practice and future research.
