Holistic treatment of lipedema at PANTEA® in Munich
Weight gain despite exercise and a healthy diet, rapid hematoma formation, pain-sensitive arms and legs? These can all be signs of lipoedema. Up to 10 % of all women in the DACH region are affected.
The clinical picture of lipoedema is still largely unknown. The result is misdiagnosis or incorrect treatment. Many sufferers go through years of odysseys until the right therapy is applied. If lipoedema is not diagnosed and treated correctly, there is a risk of lipolymphoedema, which cannot be cured. This makes it all the more important to put yourself in the hands of experts at an early stage.
Typical areas for liposuction for lipoedema are the inner and outer thighs, the upper arms ("angular arms"), the abdomen, the hips and the chin ("double chin"). Other areas of the body can include the calves, knees and buttocks.
In good hands with PANTEA
As a leading center for lipedema surgery with more than 700 operations per year, we ensure the professional diagnosis and treatment of your lipedema. We pursue a holistic approach.
Our renowned private practice for plastic and aesthetic surgery offers you all available treatment options. We accompany you from conservative treatments to aesthetic medical liposuctions. Our quality standard - the PANTEA® method, which all PANTEA specialists use - ensures the gentlest and most effective liposuction (PAL method) of the highest possible volume of liposuctioned fatty tissue (up to 10% of body fat / operation) with the best possible aesthetic results.
We are the only leading center for lipedema surgery that offers "Vaser® liposuction for lipedema" as an optional combination technique for the best possible medical and aesthetic treatment.
For the best possible aesthetic result , we also offer optional modern, tissue-sparing procedures such as Renuvion® (plasma energy) and QUANTUM® RF (radio frequency) as a combination procedure. Alternatively, we also offer surgical skin tightening for above-average excess skin.
We support patients not only before and during therapy, but also afterwards as a trusted companion.



Your lipoedema experts at PANTEA
At PANTEA®, you can expect a whole team of highly qualified specialists who have been working intensively with lipoedema for many years. We perform more than 700 procedures every year.
All treating physicians work according to the scientifically researched "PANTEA® method".

Dr. Katty Castrellon
Our interdisciplinary approach combines the comprehensive knowledge of plastic aesthetic surgery with aesthetic medicine and gynecology. This unique combination enables us to achieve the best possible treatment results for our patients.
The focus is on you
As former lipoedema patients and medical experts, we know all your worries and fears.
Every lipoedema is different and so is every patient. We look after you sensitively and take plenty of time for your treatment.
Arrange a consultation with us now:
+49 (0) 89 - 38 38 08 66
What is lipedema?
Lipoedema is a chronic, progressive, symmetrical fat distribution disorder on the upper and lower extremities that mainly affects women. In addition to visible fat deposits, many sufferers also experience pain, tenderness, a tendency to hematoma and an unpleasant feeling of tightness.
Lipoedema often occurs during hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy or the menopause. The fatty tissue can often not be reduced by exercise or dieting.
Symptoms of lipoedema
- symmetrical increase in fatty tissue in the area of the legs (and possibly the arms)
- Chronic pain
- Swelling of the legs
- Sensitivity to pressure and a feeling of tension in the affected areas
- Contourless, columnar-looking legs (and possibly also arms) with relatively slender hands and feet
- Disproportion of the extremities to the trunk
- Increased tendency to hematomas (bruises)
- Feeling of coldness in the affected areas
- Accompanying cellulite



IMPORTANT: If lipoedema is not treated early and appropriately, it can develop into lipolymphoedema over the course of 15 to 20 years. Lipolymphedema is resistant to therapy and requires much more complex treatment.
Let us improve your beauty and health
Arrange a consultation with us now:
+49 (0) 89 - 38 38 08 66
New standards in lipedema therapy
The specialists at PANTEA® are leaders in research and therapy. Our practice founder, Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp, was herself affected by lipedema.
Together with her dedicated team
- she is dedicated to scientific research into the disease
- she has perfected the "PANTEA® method", according to which all treatments at PANTEA® are carried out
- Together with other lipedema experts, she established the "Munich Lipedema Score (MLS)". This covers all symptoms and facilitates the diagnosis of lipoedema
- nutritional supplements are being developed for use in conservative therapy and follow-up treatment
Treatment methods
We are one of the leading centers for lipedema surgery in Germany and perform more than 700 operations every year based on a uniform quality standard. Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp is one of the most experienced and recognized lipoedema experts in the world. She is herself affected by lipoedema and has published her in-depth practical and scientific knowledge in numerous specialist books. We have our own research team with 2 emeritus university professors and publish regularly in scientific journals.
Typical areas for liposuction for lipoedema are the inner and outer thighs, the upper arms ("angular arms"), the abdomen, the hips and the chin ("double chin"). Other areas of the body can include the calves, knees and buttocks.
The prerequisite for medically indicated liposuction for lipoedema is a confirmed diagnosis of lipoedema by a specialist in dermatology or internal medicine with an additional qualification in phlebology.
Based on our extensive experience, we have developed our "PANTEA® method" according to Dr. med. Anna-Theresa Lipp as a uniform surgical standard, which ensures that we guarantee the highest possible medical and aesthetic quality standard for every operation. All our doctors are intensively trained according to the "PANTEA® method". The PANTEA® method ensures the gentlest and most effective liposuction of the highest possible volume of liposuctioned fat tissue (up to 10% of body fat / operation) with the best possible aesthetic results.
Our holistic therapeutic approach begins with conservative measures. As a specialized center for lipoedema surgery, PANTEA® also offers surgical treatment by means of liposuction for your lipoedema (PAL liposuction).
For the gentlest possible liposuction and optimal body definition and contouring, we are the only specialist center for lipoedema surgery in Germany to offer "Vaser® liposuction for lipoedema" as an optional combination technique. Vaser® technology uses ultrasound to liquefy the fat cells before PAL liposuction . This protects the nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue and reduces pain as well as healing and downtime . It also enables more precise definition and contouring of body parts.
For optimal aesthetic results, we offer intraoperative skin tightening as an optional combination procedure following liposuction using modern, tissue-sparing procedures such as Renuvion® (plasma energy) and QUANTUM® RF (radio frequency) to. These technologies improve the quality of the skin from the inside out and ensure the best possible overall aesthetic result - without additional incisions or scars.
Alternatively , a surgical skin tightening procedure (e.g. abdominoplasty, upper arm lift, thigh lift, breast lift, etc.) may be recommended for larger areas of excess skin .
*The personal contribution to the treatment costs can be tax-deductible as an extraordinary burden in accordance with §33 EStG if an official medical certificate or a certificate from the medical service of the health insurance companies is available before the treatment.
Therapy procedure with PANTEA
Medical treatment comprises several steps: from diagnosis through to completion of treatment.
1.
The first step at PANTEA® is a detailed consultation. Our doctors will take time for you, answer your questions and carry out a photo documentation, a 3D body scan with avatar as well as an ultrasound and physical examination.
2.
Depending on the findings, we will work with you to determine an individual treatment plan. We will either opt for conservative treatment of lipoedema or liposuction (surgical liposuction). When recommending liposuction for lipoedema, we will discuss all the options in order to achieve the best possible medical and aesthetic result.
3.
In the case of conservative lipoedema treatment, we discuss the topics of diet, nutritional supplements, exercise & sport, manual lymphatic drainage and wearing compression garments. You will receive a lot of help from us regarding the treatment.
In the case of liposuction for lipoedema, we decide on the most suitable surgical method for the individual patient during the consultation, taking all technologies into account to achieve the best possible medical and aesthetic result.
4.
If conservative treatments are not sufficiently successful or are not suitable for you, surgical treatment of lipoedema is possible.
During medical liposuction, the diseased fatty tissue is permanently removed. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia using our effective, gentle "PANTEA® method". Patients can usually leave the clinic the very next day.
5.
Liposuction can lead to excess skin that does not completely disappear during the healing process. If appropriate, at PANTEA® we optionally offer the particularly gentle and contouring "Vaser® liposuction for lipoedema" in conjunction with the PAL method as well as intraoperative skin tightening with Renuvion® (plasma energy) or QUANTUM® RF (radio frequency) as a combination technique. Surgical skin tightening is also possible if there is a lot of excess skin.
6.
After the operation, our patients receive a "post-op kit". This contains useful aids, high-quality nutritional supplements and nutriceuticals as well as the "Liporello" with important tips and tricks for the post-operative phase and dealing with lipoedema.
We also offer personal care as part of our holistic concept. Of course, we are always available to answer our patients' questions after the operation.
7.
We recommend that you take approx. 1 to 2 weeks off after liposuction. Aftercare includes wearing compression garments day and night for 6 weeks and then during the day for a further 6 weeks. To regenerate the tissue, we recommend regular manual lymphatic drainage.
8.
Follow-up appointments are made at fixed times after the operation, depending on the healing process. In addition, appointments can be arranged at any time in the event of uncertainties or questions after the operation.
9.
After approx. 6 weeks you can resume light sport. We also recommend a sustainable change in diet and offer nutritional support as well as specific dietary supplements and nutriceuticals.
We also provide helpful tips, which you can also find in our numerous specialist books.
Would you like to exchange ideas in person?
The PANTEA® team of doctors will be happy to answer any questions you may have during a personal consultation.
Make an appointment for an initial consultation:
+49 (0) 89 - 38 38 08 66

Before the treatment
After the treatment
Your advantages with PANTEA
Please contact me for a consultation appointment
Questions about lipedema treatment
The "PANTEA® method" was developed by Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp and her team of specialists. All PANTEA® procedures are carried out according to this medical approach.
This is a standardized, very effective and particularly lymph-friendly and established liposuction technique (PAL = power assisted liposuction). For particularly gentle operations with rapid healing phases, we offer the option of "Vaser® liposuction for lipoedema" in conjunction with the PAL method. In general, the highest possible, medically acceptable amount of fatty tissue is gently removed.
The advantages:
- the abnormal lipoedema fat is removed radically and at the same time gently and in a medically acceptable volume
- attention is paid not only to the medical side, but also to the best aesthetic result
- Pain is relieved and the shape of the arms and legs is optimized
Every specialist at PANTEA® is trained for months according to this treatment approach and undergoes numerous operations under the guidance of Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp before performing independent procedures.
For optimal aesthetic results, we combine liposuction with intraoperative skin tightening using Renuvion® (plasma energy) or QUANTUM® RF (radiofrequency) as a combination technique.
The result: the treatment results of all PANTEA® specialists always meet the highest quality standards.
The doctors at PANTEA® have been researching the causes and treatment options for lipoedema for years together with two university professors and a research team from our partner universities. The exact triggers of the disease are still unclear.
Current research findings suggest that genetic factors play a role in the development of lipoedema, as affected women often report other family members with the condition.
Since lipoedema usually occurs in phases of hormonal change (e.g. puberty, pregnancy, menopause etc.) and often develops progressively, it is assumed that hormonal changes influence the development of lipoedema.
However, it is important to note that hormones are not solely responsible for lipoedema. Although there is often an imbalance in certain hormone regulatory circuits in lipoedema, this is not detectable in all lipoedema patients.
The lymphatic system plays an important role in the body, as it transports dead cells, protein and fat cells, bacteria and metabolic products, and removes fluid from the tissue to maintain fluid balance in the body.
It is assumed that another cause of lipoedema is that the lymph vessels lose their transport capacity, which leads to a build-up of fat- and protein-rich substances. As a result, fewer and fewer fat cells can be removed.
Lipoedema is not caused by a lack of exercise or a poor diet. However, lipoedema is often associated with being overweight. This in itself is not a trigger for the disease, but can worsen the symptoms.
Although there is no cure for lipoedema, there are forms of treatment available to relieve the pain and discomfort of those affected in everyday life. In addition to improving symptoms, treatment also aims to prevent complications such as the development of secondary lymphoedema or orthopaedic malpositions.
For many patients, conservative treatment of lipoedema is the first option before surgery.
If conservative treatment measures (e.g. manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments, dietary changes, possibly in conjunction with nutritional support with specific dietary supplements and nutrients, exercise and sport, etc.) have been exhausted and have not achieved sufficient improvement in symptoms or findings, an individual treatment plan will be drawn up in a consultation at PANTEA.
We pursue a holistic therapy concept and accompany our patients from conservative therapy through to surgery.
Liposuction for lipoedema is the surgical removal of abnormal fatty tissue. This leads to a long-term reduction of the diseased subcutaneous fatty tissue. Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp and her team of specialists have developed the "PANTEA® method" for this purpose. This is a standardized, very effective and particularly lymph-friendly and established liposuction technique (PAL = power assisted liposuction), which can be used to gently remove the highest possible, medically acceptable amounts of fatty tissue.
Each PANTEA® specialist undergoes months of intensive training in the application of this method in a large number of operations to ensure that the treatment results of our patients with each specialist meet the highest possible quality standards of PANTEA®.
With PANTEA® we combine our standardized PANTEA® method with state-of-the-art technologies to ensure the best possible medical and aesthetic surgical results.
We use two different methods with the PANTEA® method to effectively remove fat deposits. On the one hand, there is the tumescent technique, which we use for smaller areas and also perform in our outpatient surgery under local anesthesia (possibly in conjunction with twilight sleep). A special saline solution is mixed with a local anesthetic and then the mixture is injected into the tissue to be treated. The fat cells absorb this liquid and can then be suctioned out through tiny incisions in the skin using a special suction tube. Vibration liposuction (PAL = "power assisted liposuction") is also available for the suction of larger areas under general anesthesia in our clinic. Here, fine cannulas are inserted into the body, which "shake out" the fat cells, so to speak, and suck them out.
We often combine these two techniques in order to achieve the best possible result - especially when large amounts of fat are to be suctioned out. This protects the surrounding nerves and lymph channels. For smaller procedures, it may be possible to limit ourselves to one type of liposuction, but we decide this on a case-by-case basis.
As part of our PANTEA® method, we use the most innovative technologies. The Vaser® pre-treatment liquefies the fat cells using ultrasound technology. This technology is very gentle on the tissue, which reduces pain and accelerates the healing phase. Vaser® technology also enables optimal body contouring and body definition for the best possible results. With Vaser® liposuction, we then remove the excess liquefied fat using PAL technology ("power assisted liposuction"). Intraoperative skin tightening with QuantumRF® or Renuvion® is the ideal complement for the best possible aesthetic results.
In the best case scenario, liposuction can lead to lifelong results and thus to an increase in quality of life. This can be achieved in particular if patients maintain a healthy and balanced diet and sufficient exercise before and after liposuction.
Liposuction for lipoedema involves the long-term surgical removal of abnormal fat. Our aim is always to use our standardized "PANTEA® method" to remove the maximum medically acceptable volume of lipoedema fat as gently as possible while achieving the best possible aesthetic result.
All PANTEA® specialists follow our standardized holistic treatment approach and have learned the "PANTEA® method" through intensive collaboration with Dr. med. Anna-Theresa Lipp in a large number of joint operations. This ensures that the treatment results of all our PANTEA® specialists always meet our highest possible quality standards.
In our private practice for plastic & aesthetic surgery and our center for lipedema surgery in Munich, we not only accompany our patients before and during treatment, but also support them after treatment in their pain-free life with a new quality of life as a trusted companion.
Lipoedema is a chronic, progressive, symmetrical fat distribution disorder. This means that the disease can worsen significantly over time without treatment.
If lipoedema is not treated, it often leads to so-called lipolymphedema after 15 to 20 years, which is virtually resistant to treatment.
If lipoedema is treated incorrectly, it can lead to complications or corrective surgery. As part of liposuction for lipoedema using the PANTEA method, up to 10% of the body weight is regularly and radically removed from all affected areas. Once the fat has been completely removed, it cannot grow back and the pain is usually gone. If lipoedema is removed incorrectly or incompletely by inexperienced doctors, the abnormal fat is not removed and the pain continues. According to the S2k guideline "Liposuction" of the DGPRÄC, only a maximum of 3.0-3.5 liters of pure fat may be removed in an outpatient liposuction procedure. For most lipoedema patients, even in stage 1, this amount is by no means sufficient to completely remove the abnormal fat from the affected areas in one operation. The result is a large number of necessary operations to remove all the abnormal fatty tissue from the affected areas with the associated downtime and numerous self-pay corrective operations by experienced plastic aesthetic surgeons such as PANTEA.
You should make sure that you are only treated by experienced lipoedema experts. Only specialists who have demonstrably performed a large number of liposuctions for lipoedema are reputable. Ask to see the before and after pictures and ask around in forums to find the right expert for you.
As the causes of lipoedema have not yet been researched, there is unfortunately currently no therapeutic approach to completely cure the disease.
With holistic therapy, however, the chances of alleviating or even virtually eliminating the symptoms are very good.
Conservative therapy has a short-term effect and is a symptomatic therapy. It can therefore alleviate pain and other complaints, but cannot permanently eliminate them.
Liposuction is the surgical removal of abnormal fat cells. Liposuction does not provide a complete cure, but it can achieve a lasting long-term improvement in symptoms.
What patients say about us:
Now, after a total of 4 months post-operative tummy tuck, the wonderful result is becoming apparent. Another very open consultation and recommendation. Both Dr. Wetzel and Dr. Dozan operate very carefully and focus on healthy wound healing.
Especially on the abdomen with a scar of more than 30 cm should not be underestimated. Competitors who perform liposuction at the same time as a tummy tuck can take a leaf out of their book here. Step by step is definitely the better choice.
Around 4 months after the operation there is no discomfort, the scar heals inconspicuously and thanks to the recommendation for scar care it is also soft, without hardening scar tissue.
In short: A clear recommendation for Drs. Wetzel and Dozan! Tummy tucks are not so common, especially in men, but the correction of the mons pubis was far better than the preliminary consultation had suggested!!!
Personally, it was important to me to go to a woman with this topic because I feel more comfortable personally.
Since I do not correspond to the ideal measurements of a woman but am a little curvier, I was worried that my concerns would not be taken seriously and that I might even be advised against it. But Dr. Wetzel immediately allayed my concerns and gave me the feeling that as a curvy woman I could have aesthetic procedures just as easily.
With her empathetic, honest and humane manner, she made me feel very comfortable from the very first minute and I felt understood and taken seriously right from the start. She is an incredibly competent, professional and at the same time very friendly doctor.
As I was too insecure in the first step, I only decided to have a breast lift in April 23.
Afterwards, however, my breasts had too little fullness and I had a breast augmentation with implants in December 23.
I also received excellent and competent advice on the size and manufacturer of the implants, with 2 to 3 sample photos that I brought with me of what I wanted my breasts to look like.
She took enough time at each appointment to explain everything to me clearly and in detail. And after 4 weeks I am now completely satisfied and happy with the result.
Everything went very well, from the information, to the planning of the operations, to the aftercare.
I have always found Dr. Wetzel to be very friendly, calm, emphatic and human. She radiates such calm that I felt very comfortable and in good hands with her. With Dr. Wetzel, everything just fits.
The entire practice team should not be forgotten here either. The team was always easy to reach or called back quickly. Everyone was always friendly and helpful, no matter what concerns I had.
I was looked after very lovingly and professionally both in the practice and in the Iatros Clinic.
I can really recommend Dr. Wetzel and the Pantea practice to anyone with a clear conscience.
I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Wetzel and the Pantea team!
The result is as I had hoped and the pre- and post-operative care is really great. I could and can ask all my questions.
I have 2 more liposuctions coming up and then finally an arm lift because my upper arms are now quite empty.
I can really only recommend the practice....😘😊❤️
But the clinic where the operation is performed is also totally pleasant - within the scope of the possibilities after such an operation. I still felt that I was in good hands here too...:-)
M. KB
I have been suffering from stage 2 lipoedema for 10 years. The discovery of this disease came about in an unexpected and enlightening way. Here is my story:
In my youth and during my pregnancies, I noticed that my body was changing, which is normal in itself. But my legs looked different from my friends' - they were stronger and had unusual stability. I didn't think anything of it at first, but over time the changes became more and more obvious.
The real problems started during the menopause. My legs changed dramatically, accompanied by severe pain that stretched from my ankles to my knees. By this time, my leg no longer had a natural shape. I tried everything to relieve the pain and find out what was wrong with my legs. I consulted various doctors and specialists, but no one could give me a clear diagnosis. In the evenings, I massaged my legs with a hedgehog ball in the hope that it would relieve the pain.
It wasn't until May of this year, when my daughter suggested I visit the Pantea Clinic in Munich on the recommendation of a colleague, that I found a ray of hope. I had no great expectations when I went to the clinic, but was rather hopeless.
At the clinic, I was looked after by Dr. Simone Hermanns, a young and empathetic doctor who spoke to me at eye level. She asked me numerous questions and carried out a thorough examination. Finally, she made the decisive diagnosis: I have stage 2 lipoedema. It was a shock for me, because at that time I had hardly any knowledge about this condition. However, Dr. Hermanns patiently explained everything I needed to know in detail.
The good news was that although lipoedema cannot be cured, there are ways to significantly improve quality of life. Specially made compression garments and pants can help you live pain-free. However, permanent improvement requires an operation to remove the diseased fatty tissue. Dr. Hermanns also explained to me how the diseased fat affects circulation and stability in the knees and joints. These explanations helped me to better understand the causes of my pain and discomfort.
I immediately decided to have the operation. At 59, I couldn't and didn't want to wait any longer. On June 22, the first operation was performed on the front of my legs. Seven liters of diseased fat were removed. I noticed a significant improvement soon after the operation. The pain on the front of my legs had disappeared.
On October 5, the second operation was performed on the back of my legs. The results were promising and I am sure they will be just as positive as the first operation. My mobility has already improved significantly and the pain is history. I no longer have to hide from others and no longer feel guilty about my legs.
I would like to thank Dr. Simone Hermanns from the bottom of my heart. Her expert advice, support and perfect operations have made a lasting improvement to my life. Although I was in a state of shock at the beginning, I was able to trust her and she guided me compassionately and expertly. I can move better, am no longer in pain and can finally go through life with confidence.
which I was relieved of during the preliminary consultation and also during the treatment by the doctor Mrs. Ehrl.
I was given type and professional advice!
What can I say?
I will repeat the treatment at any time.
Looks really great and natural!
Absolutely recommendable!
Many thanks to Mrs. Ehrl! 🙂
I can wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Lipp and the Pantea practice.
You get an all-round feel-good package.
The whole practice team is friendly and always available to answer any questions.
My surgery results exceeded my expectations.
I already feel very comfortable in my body, I'm fitter, pain-free and the circumference has reduced dramatically.
I'm looking forward to my recovery year and I'm excited to see what else is possible with sport.
My quality of life has improved by 100%.
Dr. Lipp + team thank you very much for the great care and the fantastic result.
The almost 3 hour drive there and back was always worth it to me, from the first consultation to the post-op care.
The new practice is also very classy and chic again, but you never have the feeling of being "looked down upon", as if you were in a "Schicki Micki clinic", but always a warm cooperation at eye level from all sides.♥️
(Also, of course, a big thank you to Dr. Hermanns and the team)
In the summer of 2022 I went to the consultation for the first time because of my lipoedema. The holistic treatment approach and the initial examination/consultation with Dr. Hermanns convinced me that PANTEA would be the right practice for me.
In April 2023 I had the last of 3 liposuctions. Dr. Hermanns has always accompanied me fully on my journey before, during and after. With her emphatic, respectful and honest manner, she is the ideal doctor for me and I am incredibly grateful to her for everything.
Dr. Hermanns has operated with both Dr. Mirko Dozan (2x) and Dr. Lipp (1x) and I can't think of any better doctors/surgeons. Everyone is very empathetic and the surgical result is more than I would have expected 🙂
Many thanks to Dr Lipp and Ms Ehrl
It is such a relief to finally be taken seriously as a lipoedema patient. After 2 operations, not only has my body and the associated pain changed, but my whole lifestyle has suddenly become healthier and more active. And I owe it all to Dr. Lipp and her entire team.
Dr. Lipp and Dr. Hermanns are my live savers, thanks to them I no longer have any pain and finally have slim legs. I was able to come to them with all my questions and always felt understood and seen. Simply great people with a big portion of professionalism, I am so happy because I can continue to work with them professionally. ❤️ A huge thank you for the new attitude to life ❤️
Due to her research, she is very familiar with the conditions of this disease.
I have been operated on twice by Dr. Lipp so far. Her colleagues and the practice team are also very nice.
Dr. Hermanns has also been able to give me lots of helpful tips.
I am very happy to have gone down this path with Dr. Lipp. And I hope she can help many more patients to lead a pain-free life.