Recommendation ID
IPG721/01
Question

Evidence on the safety of liposuction for chronic lipoedema is inadequate but raises concerns of major adverse events such as fluid imbalance, fat embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and toxicity from local anaesthetic agents. Evidence on the efficacy is also inadequate, based mainly on retrospective studies with methodological limitations. Therefore, this procedure should only be used in the context of research. Find out what only in research means on the NICE interventional procedures guidance page.

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Further research should report:

  • patient selection, including age, effects of hormonal changes (which should include
    effects seen during puberty and menopause) and the severity and site of disease
  • details of the number and duration of procedures, the liposuction technique used
    (including the type of anaesthesia and fluid balance during the procedure), and any
    procedure-related complications
  • long-term outcomes, including weight and body mass index changes
  • patient-reported outcomes, including quality of life.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance
Liposuction for chronic lipoedema
Number
IPG721
Date issued
March 2022

Other details

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research? No  
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?   No  
Last Reviewed 31/03/2022