The legs (or affected area) may appear symmetrically swollen, often causing discomfort or pain. You might notice a disproportion between the upper and lower body, with a relatively narrow waist contrasted by a larger hip or buttock area. A common indicator of lipoedema is the “bracelet” or “anklet” effect, as the hands and feet typically remain unaffected. Additionally, the affected areas may bruise easily, with skin that has an uneven, dimpled appearance and have a soft, fluffy texture. There is no definitive test for lipoedema; instead, diagnosis is based on a combination of symptoms identified by a specialist in the field of oedema management.
