Lipoedema and Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Lipoedema is a chronic, progressive condition characterised by disproportionate fat accumulation in the lower extremities, often misdiagnosed due to symptom overlap with obesity. Weight management is a key component of lipoedema treatment, yet the role of bariatric surgery remains unclear. This systematic review evaluates the impact of bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) on lipoedema symptoms, weight loss outcomes, and the need for further interventions. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus and the Cochrane Library was conducted up to January 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Studies reporting on patients with lipoedema (or equivalent diagnoses) who underwent BMS were included. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist for case reports and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) tool for case series. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria (five case reports, two cohort studies), comprising 51 patients. All underwent BMS, primarily sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. One study (n = 31) reported a significant reduction in thigh volume and weight loss comparable to controls. The remaining studies found persistent or worsened lower body disproportionality and no improvement in pain. Postoperative lipoedema diagnoses were common, raising concerns over diagnostic accuracy. Overall weight loss averaged 33.9% total weight loss. Bariatric and metabolic surgery achieves meaningful weight reduction in patients with lipoedema and obesity but does not consistently improve core lipoedema symptoms. Its role remains adjunctive rather than primary. Preoperative identification and documentation of lipoedema features are recommended, with a postoperative plan for adjunct conservative therapies and selective consideration of lymph-sparing liposuction where symptoms persist. Larger prospective studies using standardised definitions and outcome measures are needed to clarify its therapeutic value in this population.