Individual research recommendation details

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