Lipedema in Abu Dhabi
Expert surgical care for lipedema — a misunderstood fat disorder — provided by Dr. Bravo at Elyzee Hospital.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema is a chronic, progressive fat disorder that primarily affects women. It causes an abnormal, symmetrical accumulation of fat in the legs, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms — while sparing the hands and feet. The condition is often painful and resistant to diet or exercise, making it frustrating and physically disabling for many patients.
Although it is commonly misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema, lipoedema has distinctive characteristics, including:
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Symmetric enlargement of the lower limbs (and/or upper arms)
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Fat that is painful to touch, especially when walking or standing
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Frequent bruising without obvious trauma
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A feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected limbs
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Development of a cuff or ledge at the ankles or wrists
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Emotional distress, reduced mobility, and progressive body disproportion
Lipoedema typically worsens over time, especially with hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy, menopause), and cannot be reversed with traditional weight loss methods.
How Is Lipoedema Treated?
There is no known cure, but liposuction is the most effective long-term treatment. Conservative therapies — such as manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments, anti-inflammatory diet, and physical therapy — can help reduce discomfort and slow progression, but they do not reduce the abnormal fat.
Dr. Bravo offers surgical treatment tailored to each patient, using lymphatic-sparing techniques such as Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) targeting debulking of the affected areas while preserving lymphatic structures
Goals of Lipoedema Surgery
This is not only a cosmetic procedure — it is a functional intervention that can profoundly improve daily living.
Reduce limb volume
Alleviate pain, pressure, and heaviness
Improve limb mobility and posture
Slow or halt disease progression
Enhance quality of life and psychological well-being
Dr. Miguel Gómez Bravo
A World-Class
Education & Career
Based in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Miguel Gómez Bravo is an internationally trained, European Board-Certified plastic surgeon specializing in advanced body contouring and regenerative aesthetic surgery. He combines cutting-edge techniques to deliver safe, natural, and consistent results.
Ideal Candidates
You may be a candidate for lipoedema surgery if you:
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Have a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of lipoedema
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Experience pain, fatigue, or mobility limitations related to limb swelling
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Have good general health and no uncontrolled comorbidities
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Have realistic expectations and are committed to postop care (e.g., compression garments, physical therapy)
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Are not in an active inflammatory or decompensated lymphatic phase
Dr. Bravo performs a thorough clinical and imaging-based evaluation to tailor the surgical plan to each patient.
