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ChatGPT Image Aug 20, 2026, 09_38_24 PM.

Lipedema Assessment 

What to Expect...

A supportive, thorough assessment to help you understand your symptoms

If you have been wondering whether you may have lipedema, or you have already been diagnosed and are looking for support, your first appointment at Restore Lymphoedema Care is an opportunity to have your concerns heard and your symptoms properly assessed.

I understand that seeking help for changes in your body can feel daunting. Your assessment takes place in a private, supportive and non-judgemental environment, with plenty of time to ask questions and discuss your concerns.

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Before your appointment

You will receive a series of assessments to complete and return.

It can be helpful to think about when your symptoms started and how they have changed over time. You may also wish to bring any relevant medical reports, previous assessments or information about treatments you have tried.

Consider making a note of:
 

  • Areas where you experience pain, tenderness or heaviness

  • Whether you bruise easily

  • Changes in the size or shape of your legs or arms

  • Whether swelling changes throughout the day

  • Any difficulties with mobility or physical activity

  • What makes your symptoms better or worse

  • Previous diagnoses or investigations

  • Any compression garments or other treatments you currently use

  • What you would most like help with

What happens during your assessment?

1. We talk about your symptoms
We begin with a detailed conversation about what you have been experiencing. I will ask about your symptoms, medical history, family history where relevant, previous treatments and how your symptoms affect your everyday life. This is also your opportunity to tell me what you are concerned about and what you would like to achieve from your assessment.

2. Clinical assessment
I will then carry out a clinical assessment of your legs and/or arms.
This may include looking at:

  • The distribution and pattern of adipose tissue

  • Symmetry between your limbs

  • Tissue texture and characteristics

  • Pain and tenderness

  • Easy bruising

  • Swelling and fluid changes

  • Skin and tissue condition

  • Mobility and functional impact
     

A bioimpedance spectroscopy scan and body measurements will also be taken where appropriate to provide a baseline for future monitoring. Lipedema is primarily assessed clinically. There is currently no single blood test or scan that confirms lipedema, so your history and physical assessment are important parts of understanding your presentation.

3. Considering other causes
Not all leg or arm enlargement is caused by lipedema, and some people have more than one condition affecting their limbs.
As part of your assessment, I will consider whether lymphoedema, chronic venous disease or other factors may be contributing to your symptoms. If further medical assessment or investigation is appropriate, I will discuss this with you and recommend referral to the appropriate healthcare professional.

4. We discuss your results
At the end of your assessment, we will talk through any immediate findings and what this means. You will have time to ask questions and discuss any concerns. If your presentation is consistent with lipedema, we can talk about appropriate management options and what may be helpful for you.

What happens after the assessment?

I will consolidate the outcome of the findings of your assessment and create a management plan, individualised according to your symptoms, needs and goals.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include:

Compression advice - Assessment and guidance around compression where this is appropriate for your symptoms.
Manual lymphatic drainage - Gentle manual lymphatic drainage may be recommended where there is associated lymphatic congestion or swelling.
Self-management education - Practical information to help you understand your symptoms and manage them between appointments.
Movement and mobility support - Discussion around maintaining movement and finding activities that are comfortable and achievable for you.
Ongoing monitoring -Follow-up assessments can help monitor changes in your symptoms and adjust your management plan as your needs change.
Referral and collaboration - Where appropriate, I can recommend involvement from other healthcare professionals as part of your care.

Will I need to undress?

For a thorough assessment, I may need to examine your legs and/or arms. I will explain what is required before the assessment and only expose the area being assessed. Your privacy and dignity will always be respected. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, please let me know. Your assessment should feel safe and respectful.

How long does the assessment take?
Your assessment could last up to 90 minutes. It is designed to allow enough time for a detailed history, clinical assessment and discussion of your management options. The exact time required will depend on your individual circumstances and whether you are attending for an initial assessment or follow-up appointment.

What should I expect to leave with?
The most important outcome of your appointment is a clearer understanding of what may be contributing to your symptoms and what you can do next. You will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand the findings of your assessment and develop an appropriate plan for managing your symptoms. 
 

You deserve to have your symptoms understood.
If you are experiencing painful, heavy or disproportionately enlarged legs or arms, easy bruising or persistent discomfort and are wondering whether you may have lipedema, an assessment can be an important first step. 
Book your lipedema assessment with Restore Lymphoedema Care today.
Book Here
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