I have a chronic condition called Lipodema and I need 3 surgeries to keep my mobility in the coming years. I turn 60 next year and look forward to retirement with my husband. I have tried to manage this condition for years with wearing tight compression garments everyday and having treatment that I pay for myself every month to keep the fluid in my legs moving. This is called MLD and is private treatment. This surgery is not available on the nhs as it is classed as cosmetic. To the ladies that have this condition it is not cosmetic it is life limiting as everyday is a struggle with mobility, pain and dressing. This condition does not reduce with diet or exercise and has been proved. This has also been recognised as a chronic disease by the world health organisation. I have a 10 year old grandson and have never been able to kneel on the floor to play with him. It restricts my walking, sitting, sleeping, exercise. I have over the years tried all forms of exercise and diet but gave up as muscle strength in someone with Lipodema is 30% less so is very hard with very little result. Also Lipodema does not respond to weight loss.
I have decided to embark on these surgeries to get back my self esteem and mobility as I head into my 60s.