Vaser Liposuction
Targets excess fat that may be difficult to lose through diet and exercise alone. ⓘ
Wondering if Australia’s Medicare system covers liposuction for lipedema (lipoedema)? Despite the fact it’s thought to affect 1 in 9 Australian females1https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/lipoedema, Medicare does not cover liposuction to treat lipoedema. In this article, we’re covering what you need to know about lipoedema, and how you can treat this condition in Australia.
What is Lipoedema?
Lipoedema is a condition characterised by the unusual accumulation of fatty tissue, typically in the legs. It can develop during significant hormonal shifts such as puberty, pregnancy, IVF treatments, and menopause2https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573066/. The severity and symptoms of lipoedema can vary widely among individuals, meaning not everyone experiences the condition in the same way.
Does Medicare Cover Liposuction for Lipoedema?
In April 2018, the World Health Organisation officially recognised lipoedema as a disease. However, as of 2024, the Australian Federal Government has yet to do the same. As such, Medicare does not cover liposuction for the purposes of treating lipoedema.
Liposuction is often needed to treat lipoedema, which in severe cases can greatly impact a person’s mobility. Australians with lipoedema currently have to find their own treatment, as most health insurance providers will not cover liposuction for lipoedema either.
Does Medicare Cover Liposuction for Other Conditions?
Medicare offers benefits for liposuction under specific conditions, primarily for:
- Treating post-traumatic pseudolipoma
- Certain medical conditions like Barraquer-Simons syndrome, lymphoedema, or macrodystrophia lipomatosa
- To reduce a buffalo hump due to an endocrine disorder or medication
Liposuction for one regional area is covered under item 455853https://www9.health.gov.au/mbs/fullDisplay.cfm?type=item&q=45585&qt=item, with a requirement for documented clinical need through photos or imaging.
Lipoedema Treatment Options
Lipoedema treatment options include a range of therapies aimed at managing symptoms and improving quality of life:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage: A gentle massage technique that helps move excess fluid back into the circulatory system.
- Compression Therapy: Wearing specially designed garments to improve fluid flow and reduce swelling.
- Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can help reduce symptoms and improve mobility.
- Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight can help manage the condition’s progression.
- Liposuction: Surgical removal of fatty tissue to reduce volume in affected areas, used in more advanced cases.
- Surgical Options: In severe cases, procedures like lymph node transfer or excisional surgeries might be considered.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.
Keep in mind results will vary from person to person.
Can Liposuction Cure Lipoedema?
With current knowledge about the condition, lipoedema cannot be completely eradicated, but its impact can be significantly reduced through various treatments, including liposuction.
Liposuction for lipoedema is a medical intervention aimed at alleviating the condition’s symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life.
Managing lipoedema effectively requires a serious approach, considering both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition.
How to Tell if You Have Lipoedema
Identifying lipoedema involves looking for characteristic symptoms: disproportionate fat accumulation, typically in the legs, that doesn’t improve with diet or exercise; pain or tenderness in the affected areas; a feeling of heaviness; and easy bruising.
Unlike typical fat distribution, lipoedema fat is symmetrical and often spares the feet, creating a “bracelet” effect above the ankles. If you notice these signs, consulting a healthcare provider who specialises in lipoedema is crucial for a proper diagnosis and to discuss potential treatment options.
Medicare Cover Lipoedema FAQs
Is liposuction covered by Medicare for lipoedema?
As of 2024, Medicare does not cover liposuction for lipoedema. It covers liposuction for certain conditions, such as treating post-traumatic pseudolipoma, Barraquer-Simons syndrome, lymphoedema, or macrodystrophia lipomatosa, or to reduce a buffalo hump due to an endocrine disorder or medication.
How much does lipoedema surgery cost in Australia?
The cost of liposuction to treat lipoedema varies, but as a general rule, most patients need a minimum of 2 surgeries (depending on how far advanced the condition is). This means surgery could cost anywhere from $11,000 to $15,000 and beyond.
Why is lipoedema not covered by insurance?
Medicare and health insurance currently do not cover lipoedema treatments, viewing them as cosmetic rather than medically necessary. However, there’s growing advocacy for coverage due to lipoedema’s potential to severely impair mobility and affect quality of life, highlighting the need for recognition of its medical significance.
References:
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