Lipedema becomes covered by health insurance – diagnosis with 3D scanner atPANTEA® in Munich
We are a private practice and one of the leading centers for lipedema surgery in the German-speaking world. Every year, we perform more than 700 operations according to a uniform quality standard —the PANTEA® method. Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp is one of the world's most renowned lipedema experts; as someone who has experienced the condition herself, she combines comprehensive practical and scientific expertise.
During the initial consultation, we will examine whether you are affected by lipedema. If necessary, you will receive a diagnosis, detailed advice, and important tips for undergoing the six-month conservative therapy, as well as recommendations for diagnostic specialists in our network who are approved by health insurance providers .
We use one of the most modern and precise 3D scanners to document our treatment results. This allows us to quickly, accurately, and tamper-proof record numerous body parameters (e.g., BMI, weight, height, body fat percentage, circumferences, waist-height ratio) before and after lipedema treatment. This data creates transparency and enables clear digital documentation at the beginning and end of the six-month conservative therapy. This allows you to provide your statutory health insurance company with tamper-proof and accurate proof that you meet the criteria for coverage of the costs of liposuction for lipedema.
Liposuction for lipedema will be covered by health insurance for all stages starting in 2026. What do I need to know?
Many women are familiar with the feeling of heavy, painful legs —and are often hastily classified as "overweight." However , these symptoms can be caused by a serious chronic condition: lipedema. According to studies , up to 3.8 million women (10%) in Germany are affected by this condition.
On July 17, 2025, based on the LIPLEG study, the Joint Federal Committee (G-BA) decided that outpatient liposuction for lipedema should be included in the catalog of services covered by statutory health insurance (GKV) as a standard benefit for stages I-III (previously only stage III) from the first quarter of 2026. This decision is an importantstep forward in the care of lipedema patients.
Note: The following information is based on the current status of the G-BA decision from November 2025 and may change once all criteria have been finalized. Details on the requirements for GKV cost coverage can be found in the FAQs below.
- In order for statutory health insurance to cover the costs of liposuction for lipedema, strict criteria must be met and fully documented in the patient's file at the beginning and end of the six-month conservative therapy in accordance with the G-BA's quality assurance guidelines.
- The diagnosis lipedema must be made by a specialist approved by the statutory health insurance system (e.g., specialist in internal medicine/angiology, specialist with additional qualification in phlebology, specialist in dermatology, specialist in physical and rehabilitative medicine) in order for the costs to be covered by statutory health insurance.
In Germany, there are only a few specialized medical practices such as PANTEA® that have extensive experience in the diagnosis and conservative and surgical treatment of lipedema.
- An initial diagnosis at PANTEA® using a 3D scan can bea very important first step. Even though we, as a private medical practice, are not authorized to make diagnoses covered by health insurance, our preliminary diagnosis , including tamper-proof measurements , can help patients obtain a diagnosis more quickly from a specialist approved by health insurance (possibly from our cooperation network).
- During the initial consultation at PANTEA®, patients receive expert advice and, if necessary, a diagnosis and 3D scan, as well as importantrecommendations on how to optimally implement conservative therapy in order to increase the likelihood that all statutory health insurance criteria will be met after completing the six-month conservative therapy.
- If all requirements are met after six months of conservative therapy,a certified specialist surgeon approved by health insurance companies (e.g., specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery, specialist in surgery, specialist in dermatology performing surgery, etc.) must confirm the findings and provide a medically justified indication for liposuction in cases of lipedema . Surgeons only need to have relatively little experience ( e.g., a total of only 50 surgeries performed independently or even only 20 surgeries in the last 2 years under the supervision of an experienced qualified physician). The PANTEA® team successfully performs more than 50-70 lipedema surgeries every month.
Tip: In order to be able to assess whether the operating specialist with health insurance approval has sufficient experience in professional, medically correct, and at the same time aesthetically appealing treatment, patients should always inquire about the number of liposuction procedures performed for lipedema per year (at least 50 operations per year should be a minimum requirement) and ask to see real before and after pictures and read patient feedback on well-known platforms (e.g., Jameda, Google, lipedema forums, Instagram, Facebook, etc.).
- There are binding surgical guidelines for the operation, which must be followed by certified surgeons who are approved by health insurance companies (see FAQ for details).
- The statutory health insurance currently only covers liposuction of the legs and, if indicated, the arms. Other areas such as the abdomen, back, buttocks, chest, or face are excluded. Corrective surgery in areas that have already undergone surgery is also not covered by statutory health insurance .
- As things stand at present ,statutory health insurance coverage for stage I and II lipedema patients is limited to outpatient surgery with local anesthesia of the affected areas and a maximum liposuction volume of up to 3 liters per operation.
Tip: For lipedema patients who are dissatisfied with the medical and/or aesthetic results of their previous treatment, we offer a consultation for corrective treatment. In many cases, a significant improvement in the treatment results can be achieved.
- If you do not meet the strict criteria for coverage by statutory health insurance, or if you are unable to find an experienced specialist with health insurance approval and available capacity whom you trust, or if you would prefer to have surgery performed by the experienced lipedema experts at PANTEA® despite coverage by statutory health insurance, we would be happy to perform liposuction for lipedema for you as a self-pay patient.
Tip: The costs of self-pay treatments may be tax-deductibleas extraordinary expenses in accordance with §33 EStG (German Income Tax Act), provided that a medical certificate from a public health officer is available before the start of treatment. Tax recognition depends on the individual tax office.
Based on our many years of experience, we have developed the "PANTEA® method" according to Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp as a uniform surgical standard. The aim is to ensure the highest possible medical and aesthetic quality standards. All our doctors receive intensive training in this method.
The PANTEA® method combines liposuction of large volumes of fat (up to approx. 10% of body fat per procedure, depending on individual circumstances) with the best possible aesthetic results, while preserving as much tissue as possible.
With the PANTEA® method , we use vibration-assisted liposuction (PAL – Power Assisted Liposuction) and combine this optionally with Vaser® technology as a pre-treatment for the gentlest possible surgery and a quick healing phase.
For intraoperative skin tightening during liposuction, we also offer optional modern, tissue-sparing procedures such as Renuvion® (plasma energy) and QUANTUM® RF (radiofrequency) as a combination procedure.
In good hands with PANTEA®
As one of the leading centers for lipedema surgery and aesthetic surgery, we successfully perform over 700 liposuction procedures every year. We always take care to achieve not only the best possible medical but also the best possible aesthetic result. Our renowned private practice for plastic and aesthetic surgery also offers you all available treatment options in the field of breast surgery, skin-tightening and body-shaping surgery and aesthetic liposuction at the highest quality level.
We take care of your well-being with our holistic approach, from the initial consultation to aftercare following an operation.
Our aim is for you to feel completely comfortable in your body again and experience a better quality of life, attractiveness and health.
For the best possible medical and aesthetic results, we are at your side as your trusted companion not only before and during treatment, but also afterwards.
Your experts for liposuction for lipedema (Vaser® liposuction) at PANTEA®
AtPANTEA®, you can expect to meet a whole team of highly qualified specialists who have been intensively involved in treatments in the field of plastic and aesthetic surgery for many years. We successfully perform more than 700 procedures every year. We have our own research team with two emeritus university professors and publish regularly in scientific journals.
Dr. med. Anna-Theresa Lipp
Dr. med. Simone Hermanns
Dr. med. Bettina Geßner
Sarah Kaulfersch
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 specialists in plastic and aesthetic surgery and medical experts, we know all your worries and fears.
Every patient's wishes are different and so is every patient. We look after you holistically and empathetically and take plenty of time for your treatment.
Arrange a consultation with us now:
+49 (0) 89 - 38 38 08 66
Your experts for lipedema surgery in Munich introduce themselves
Let us improve your beauty and health
Arrange a consultation with us now:
+49 (0) 89 - 38 38 08 66
Treatment methods
Thanks to our broad range of knowledge and many years of experience in lipoedema treatment, we are familiar with all common liposuction methods (PAL, WAL, TLA) in detail and have access to all state-of-the-art liposuction technologies established on the market.
At PANTEA, we use two proven methods for the effective and gentle removal of fat deposits: the tumescent technique and vibration-assisted liposuction (PAL - Power Assisted Liposuction).
We perform both procedures exclusively under general anesthesia in our inpatient clinic to ensure maximum safety and the best possible comfort for our patients. This combination allows the tissue to be treated more evenly while protecting nerves and lymphatic channels. In this way, the largest possible amount of diseased fatty tissue can be suctioned out.
In the tumescent technique, a special saline solution with a locally effective anesthetic is injected into the tissue to be treated. The fat cells absorb this liquid and can then be gently suctioned out using fine cannulas.
We use PAL technology for all areas. This involves the use of vibrating, fine cannulas that mechanically loosen the fatty tissue through rapid forward and backward movements and simultaneously suction it away. This procedure enables particularly effective and tissue-sparing removal of fat cells - even in fibrotic or sensitive tissue, as is often the case with lipoedema.
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). 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 .
Outpatient liposuction: We also use the tumescent technique for smaller areas as part of outpatient aesthetic liposuction in our outpatient surgery in twilight sleep and combine this with intraoperative skin tightening using BodyTite® or FaceTite® technology. These techniques are particularly suitable for smaller areas on the abdomen (partial areas), flanks, saddlebags, double chin or knees and, if necessary, the upper arms. The possible upper limit is around 3,000 ml of fatty tissue per session. We decide which combination of techniques is suitable on a case-by-case basis.
Gold standard of liposuction for lipedema
Leading center for lipedema surgery and aesthetic surgery. More than 700 operations per year.
Vaser® liposuction
Step 1: Liquefaction of the fat cells using ultrasound
PANTEA® method of liposuction for lipedema
Step 2: Liposuction using the PANTEA Method® for the best possible medical and aesthetic surgical results - from experience with the Method®.
Intraoperative skin tightening with QuantumRF®
Step 3: State-of-the-art skin tightening technology with radiofrequency for the best possible aesthetic results. OR
Intraoperative skin tightening with Renuvion®
Step 3: State-of-the-art skin tightening technology with radiofrequency + helium plasma for the best possible aesthetic results.
Therapy procedure with PANTEA®
Medical treatment comprises several steps: from diagnosis through to completion of treatment.
1.
The first step atPANTEA® is a detailed consultation. Our doctors take time for you, answer your questions, and carry out photo documentation, a 3D body scan with avatar, as well as an ultrasound and physical examination.
In addition, together with the "before" 3D body scan, you will receive all the relevant information you need to start your 6-month conservative therapy and, if necessary, get an appointment with a diagnosing specialist approved by your health insurance company more quickly.
In the case of conservative lipedema therapy , we discuss topics such as nutrition, dietary supplements, exercise and sports, manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments, and "weight loss injections." We provide you with a wide range of support services related to therapy and recommendations for diagnostic specialists who are approved by health insurance companies and who can also provide you with prescriptions from our network.
2.
If, after completing the 6-month conservative therapy, you return to PANTEA®, , you will receive an "after" 3D scan, which can serve as tamper-proof evidence of fulfillment of the criteria/requirements for cost coverage by statutory health insurance.
If you meet the strict criteria for coverage by statutory health insurance, you can go to a specialist approved for surgery for the indication "liposuction for lipedema" and have the operation performed at the expense of your health insurance.
If you do not meet the strict criteria for statutory health insurance coverage after six months of conservative therapy, or if you are unable to find an experienced specialist with health insurance approval and available capacity whom you trust, or if, despite statutory health insurance coverage, you would prefer to have surgery performed by the experienced lipedema experts at PANTEA®, we would be happy to advise you on liposuction for lipedema as a self-payer.
3.
If you decide to undergo further treatment at PANTEA, we will work with you to develop an individual treatment plan based on the findings.
When recommending liposuction for lipedema, we discuss all the options available to ensure that your treatment wishes are fulfilled in the best possible way, both medically and aesthetically. During the follow-up consultation, we will decide together on the most suitable surgical method for you , taking into account all available technologies to achieve the best possible medical and aesthetic results.
4.
Medical liposuction involves the permanent removal of diseased fatty tissue. 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 recede during the healing process and is not aesthetically pleasing.
To ensure that the treatment results are not only medically optimal but also aesthetically pleasing, we combine liposuction for lipedema using the PAL method with the particularly gentle and contouring "Vaser® technology" andintraoperative skin tightening with Renuvion® ( plasma energy) or QUANTUM® RF ( radio frequency) as a combination technique , if necessary .
If there is a significant amount of excess skin, surgical skin tightening is also possible.
6.
After the operation , our patients receive a "post-op kit." It contains useful aids, high-quality dietary supplements, and nutraceuticals, as well as the "Liporello" with important tips and tricks for the post-op phase and dealing with lipedema.
We also offer personal care as part of our holistic approach. Naturally, we are available to answer any questions our patients may have after their surgery.
7.
We recommend that you take approximately 1 to 2 weeks off work after liposuction or obtain a sick note from a doctor registered with your health insurance provider . Aftercare includes wearing compression garments day and night for 6 weeks and then during the day for another 6 weeks. To regenerate the tissue, we recommend regular manual lymphatic drainage.
8.
Follow-up appointments take place at fixed times after the operation, depending on the healing process. In addition, video call appointments can be arranged at any time in case of uncertainties or questions after the operation.
9.
After about six weeks, you can resume light exercise. We also recommend a sustainable change in diet and offer nutritional counseling as well as specific dietary supplements and nutraceuticals.
In addition, we provide helpful tips, which you can also find in our numerous reference books by Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp.
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
Blood-thinning medication (e.g. aspirin or similar) should no longer be taken one week before the operation.
If you are a smoker, please stop smoking three weeks before the operation.
Make sure you drink enough fluids in the days before the procedure.
Please organize the transfer home in advance. An accompanying person is required for this.
After the treatment
Please stop smoking for at least 3 weeks after the operation.
Compression garments are required for 6 weeks day and night and then recommended for a further 6 weeks during the day.
Regular manual lymphatic drainage: 2-3 treatments per week for approx. 6-8 weeks are optimal, followed by 1-2 treatments per week as required during the healing year.
A healthy diet, supported by specific nutritional supplements and regular exercise, are crucial for the long-term success of the therapy.
Your advantages with PANTEA®
All surgical procedures are performed personally by the specialists
Extensive experience with more than 700 operations per year
Premium concept in a modern private practice in Munich with high-quality facilities, the latest medical equipment and its own outpatient procedure room
Surgery and inpatient stay at the premium private clinic Iatros in the center of Munich with modern single and double rooms
Application of the effective "PANTEA® method" for optimal gentle suction with beautiful aesthetic results at the same time
From woman to woman - personal advice and gentle treatment at eye level
Family business with a young and dynamic team
Please contact me for a consultation appointment
Questions about aesthetic liposuction (liposuction)
The "PANTEA® method" was developed by Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp and her team of specialists. All procedures atPANTEA® are performed according to this proven 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.
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.
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.
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.
After the operation, you can expect swelling and a feeling of tightness in the suctioned areas. The body needs a few days to recover and remove the remaining fluid from the tissue. After aesthetic liposuction with PANTEA®, it is important to wear compression garments consistently for 6 weeks to reduce swelling and stabilize the tissue. We recommend lymphatic drainage to support this. The incisions are very small and are usually completely healed after 10-14 days. There is no reason why you should not start going for walks just a few days after the operation, and after two weeks you can slowly start exercising again.
Most patients are socially acceptable again after 1-2 weeks, with the final result becoming apparent after around 3 months. Follow-up appointments and careful aftercare ensure a smooth healing process.
Note: Structured aftercare with regular check-ups and consistent compression treatment is also essential for outpatient procedures.
Aesthetic liposuction can be used to treat specific problem areas, which usually leads to an increase in mobility, quality of life and self-esteem.
The results of aesthetic liposuction with PANTEA® are permanent in the areas of the body that have been liposuctioned, as the liposuctioned fat cells do not grow back. Nevertheless, a stable lifestyle (balanced diet, exercise, weight control) is crucial, as fat deposits can otherwise grow in areas of the body that have not been treated. This is the only way to ensure that the results achieved remain visible in the long term. Overall, the treatment aims to permanently improve the appearance and optimize the body contour in the long term.
Note: Lasting results can also be achieved with outpatient procedures - provided that individual indications and professional aftercare are provided.
As with any surgical procedure, liposuction also involves certain risks, which we can discuss with you in advance and reduce to a minimum thanks to our gentle methods and many years of experience.
As with any surgical procedure, liposuction can lead to swelling, hematomas, temporary numbness or minor skin irregularities. Rare risks are infections, scarring or circulatory reactions. We recommend that you keep your legs elevated and regularly cool the treated areas.
The length of time you will be unable to work depends on the area treated and the amount of fat cells removed by liposuction. You should refrain from sports and sauna visits for a few days up to 3 weeks (depending on the findings and extent). We recommend that you wear the compression garments provided by us around the clock for 6 weeks (possibly another 6 weeks during the day) to avoid complications and to support your body during recovery.
However, thanks to modern, tissue-sparing techniques and careful aftercare, the risk of complications is very low. PANTEA® attaches great importance to individual advice, safe procedures and optimal results.
Stage III lipedema patients can already undergo liposuction under certain conditions as a service covered by statutory health insurance.
- A confirmed diagnosis of lipedema must be made by a licensed specialist registered with a health insurance provider: specialist in internal medicine and angiology, specialist with additional qualification in phlebology, specialist in physical and rehabilitative medicine, specialist in dermatology.
- It must be a disproportionate, symmetrical increase in fatty tissue that only affects the extremities (arms and legs).
- There must be pressure or touch pain in the soft tissue of the affected extremities.
- No weight gain during the 6 months of conservative therapy prior to the surgical indication being made by a qualified physician from the disciplines listed below.
- Die BMI-Grenzen dürfen nicht überschritten werden: >35 Kg/m² ist die Liposuktion unzulässig; die Liposuktion ist bei >= 32 bis <= 35 Kg/m² nur dann Zulässig, wenn das Übergewicht maßgeblich durch die lipödemtypische Fetteinlagerungen an Armen und Beinen bedingt ist.
- Davon ist auszugehen, wenn der altersabhängige Grenzwerte in Bezug auf die Waist-Height-Ratio (WHrR = das Verhältnis zwischen Taillen- und Körpergröße) z.B. bei < = 40 Lebensjahre: 0,5; > = 41 bis < = 49 Lebensjahre: Anstieg um 0,01 je Lebensjahr und bei > = 50 Lebensjahre: 0,6 nicht überschritten wird.
- No relief of symptoms despite undergoing a medically prescribed 6-month conservative therapy (e.g., compression garments, lymphatic drainage, exercise therapy, dietary changes).
- Regular wearing of flat-knit compression garments (with proof of use)
- prescribed and documented manual lymphatic drainage
- accompanying exercise therapy
- A healthy, stable lifestyle (e.g., food diary, activity logs)
Special feature of compression therapy:
- In future, flat-knit compression garments will primarily be prescribed for patients with lipolymphoedema.
- If there is "only" lipedema without an additional lymphatic component, compression therapy is increasingly being used in a restrictive manner. This can lead to real gaps in care—especially for patients in the early stages or without secondary lymphedema.
- No weight gain during the 6 months of conservative therapy prior to the surgical indication being made by a qualified physician from the disciplines listed below.
- Die BMI-Grenzen dürfen nicht überschritten werden: >35 Kg/m² ist die Liposuktion unzulässig; die Liposuktion ist bei >= 32 bis <= 35 Kg/m² nur dann Zulässig, wenn das Übergewicht maßgeblich durch die lipödemtypische Fetteinlagerungen an Armen und Beinen bedingt ist.
- Davon ist auszugehen, wenn der altersabhängige Grenzwerte in Bezug auf die Waist-Height-Ratio (WHrR = das Verhältnis zwischen Taillen- und Körpergröße) z.B. bei < = 40 Lebensjahre: 0,5; > = 41 bis < = 49 Lebensjahre: Anstieg um 0,01 je Lebensjahr und bei > = 50 Lebensjahre: 0,6 nicht überschritten wird.
- The new regulation on the coverage of liposuction costs for lipedema applies in principle to all three stages (I–III). Nevertheless, the scope of services covered by statutory health insurance funds is clearly limited:
- Currently, only liposuction on the legs and—if medically indicated—on the arms is covered.
- Other areas of the body such as the abdomen, back, buttocks, chest, or face are not currently covered by health insurance. This significantly impairs the overall aesthetic result.
- In addition, as things stand today, cost coverage in stages I and II is generally limited to outpatient procedures with a limited suction volume—usually a maximum of around 3 liters per operation. Unfortunately, this means that a large number of outpatient surgeries are necessary compared to inpatient surgeries in order to remove the entire amount of pathological lipedema fat holistically in all areas so that it cannot reappear in the areas where it was removed.
- First, a specialist—for example, in internal medicine/angiology or phlebology—makes the lipedema diagnosis.
- After completing the six-month conservative therapy, a second specialist may confirm the diagnosis and determine the indication for liposuction.
- Only when both experts independently come to the same conclusion can liposuction be prescribed as a service covered by statutory health insurance.
To ensure that the costs are covered by statutory health insurance, the diagnosisof lipedema must be made by a specialist approved by the health insurance fund in the following disciplines:
- Specialist in dermatology
- Specialist in internal medicine and angiology
- Specialist physician with additional qualification in phlebology
- Specialist in physical and rehabilitative medicine
If all criteria are met after six months of conservative therapy, one of the following specialists approved by health insurance providers must confirm this and issue a medically justified indication for liposuction in cases of lipedema:
- Specialists in plastic and aesthetic surgery (this is the only one of the specialist disciplines mentioned in which liposuction is part of the intensive specialist training)
- Specialists in surgery (for specialists in general surgery, liposuction is not a mandatory part of specialist training)
- Specialists in dermatology who perform surgery (this is only a "minor" surgical specialty, in which liposuction is not a mandatory part of specialist training)
Other than the above-mentioned specialist disciplines, who already performed liposuction independently in accordance with the guideline prior to this G-BA decision coming into force and can demonstrate this on the basis of a total of at least 50 operations (or at least 20 cases under the supervision of an experienced physician within the last 2 years) (liposuction was never part of the specialist training for these specialists either)
- Tumescent LA and WAL (water-assisted liposuction) or PAL (power-assisted liposuction) for several consecutive partial procedures.
- More than 3,000 ml of pure fatty tissue per partial procedure may only be suctioned if a postoperative observation period of at least 12 hours is guaranteed.
- Das entfernte Fettvolumen pro OP muss <= 10% des Körpergewichts in Litern betragen.
- Areas that have already undergone liposuction may not be treated again at the expense of statutory health insurance.
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Statutory health insurance only covers medically necessary liposuction on the legs and, if necessary, arms, as well as the associated basic services.
These usually include:
- the actual liposuction in the approved areas (legs and, if necessary, arms)
- the anesthesia
- monitoring following outpatient surgery, if medically necessary
- standardized follow-up care
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- Skin tightening surgery after liposuction
- Corrective procedures in areas that have already undergone surgery
- Purely aesthetic procedures or treatments on other areas of the body (e.g., abdomen, buttocks, back)
- For many patients, the BMI and waist-hip ratio thresholds are difficult to achieve (especially in stage III). Unfortunately, this means that many will not be eligible for statutory health insurance benefits.
- There are far too few specialists approved by health insurance companies in Germany to diagnose the large number of potential patients—especially since only a few have extensive experience in diagnosing lipedema. The result is a long wait for diagnosis.
- There are far too few specialists approved by health insurance companies in Germany to competently operate on the large number of potential patients—especially since only a few of the aforementioned specialist disciplines are trained and experienced in liposuction for lipedema. The result is a long waiting time for liposuction for lipedema and the risk of liposuction being performed by an inexperienced doctor, which leads to an increasing need for corrective surgery by experienced lipedema surgeons after liposuction (not covered by health insurance).
- Since the G-BA stipulates that only outpatient liposuction for lipedema should be covered as a standard service, a maximum aspiration volume of up to 3,000 ml per operation may not be exceeded, as a 12-hour observation period is not provided for and may not be performed in the case of outpatient operations.
- Since each patient has a specific amount of pathological lipedema fat on their body, which often accounts for > 10-30% of body weight, this restriction to a maximum of 3,000 ml of pure fat tissue removed per outpatient surgery means that the number of outpatient surgeries required to remove the entire amount of pathological lipedema fat is significantly higher. It can be assumed that a stage II patient will require at least 4-6 outpatient surgeries to radically remove the entire amount of pathological lipedema fat from all affected areas.
According to current guidelines, liposuction in areas of the body that have already been treated is not usually covered again. This means that areas that have already been operated on as part of a health insurance benefit cannot normally be billed again for liposuction through statutory health insurance. Such corrective procedures are then performed as self-pay services.
In Germany, patients are generally free to choose their doctor and clinic. However, if you wish to have the costs covered by statutory health insurance, liposuction for lipedema is currently only available in approved contract clinics—not in privately run specialist clinics.
In our professional opinion, the scope of services currently provided by statutory health insurance for lipedema surgery is not sufficient to ensure truly high-quality, tissue-preserving, and holistic treatment—as is standard at PANTEA®. Many of our patients report significant differences in terms of surgical method, quality of results, and aftercare following GKV-financed procedures compared to their experience with us. We treat a large number of lipedema patients with corrective surgery and regret that optimal medical and aesthetic results are unfortunately not possible on the basis of the EBM codes reimbursed by health insurance companies.
As it is currently not possible to reliably predict whether your personal situation will actually be covered by statutory health insurance, we advise against hastily canceling appointments that have already been made with us. We are monitoring all developments very closely and will, of course, inform you as soon as there are any relevant changes to your treatment options.
1. We are one of the leading lipedema centers
- Our team of doctors specializes in treating patients with lipedema.
- A specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery is always part of the surgical team during our operations.
- Consultation and treatment from woman to woman on equal terms – warm, personal, and competent
- We successfully perform more than 700 liposuction procedures every year and are one of the leading centers for lipedema surgery in the German-speaking world.
- Thorough PANTEA® training: at least 100 supervised surgeries before operating independently
- Standardized PANTEA® method by Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp, MD
- At least 150 liposuction procedures per doctor per year, inpatient, under general anesthesia
- Use of state-of-the-art medical technology such as Vaser® liposuction and intraoperative skin tightening with Quantum-RF® or Renuvion®
- We are the only private lipedema center that actively conducts research and regularly publishes research findings on lipedema in relevant journals and presents them at conferences.
- More than 7 reference books on lipedema by Dr. Anna-Theresa Lipp, who herself was affected by lipedema.
2. Optimal medical and aesthetic results
With PANTEA®, depending on the findings, additional areas can also be treated, such as the abdomen, back, buttocks, waist/transition, face, double chin, and, in some cases, the chest. This is the only way to achieve a more harmonious overall aesthetic appearance and avoid disproportions.
3. Individual consultation for conservative 6-month therapy with 3D body scan
- 3D scan with all relevant body measurements for tamper-proof "before" / "after" documentation
- Comprehensive advice on all criteria/requirements that must be met in order to be eligible for coverage by statutory health insurance after 6 months of conservative therapy
- Advice on taking premium dietary supplements specifically for lipedema from DR. LIPP®
- Access to our network of specialists with/without health insurance accreditation who are recognized by the statutory health insurance system for the diagnosis of lipedema (this, together with our initial diagnosis and 3D scan, may result in faster appointments and, if necessary, a prescription for the "weight loss injection").
- Follow-up appointment after 6 months of conservative therapy for the "after" 3D body scan
4. Individual surgical planning for sustainable, medically and aesthetically optimal results
- Tailored treatment plan for each patient
- Focus on complaints, tissue profile, and life situation
- Goal: Relief of symptoms AND the most harmonious aesthetic result possible
- Few, but comprehensive procedures with suction volumes of up to 10% of body weight per operation (resulting in significantly fewer operations and downtime than with outpatient operations with a maximum of 3 liters per operation).
4. Comprehensive care & aftercare
- Post-operative support from our LIPODOULA service (your surgeons + 1 former patient)
- Manual lymphatic drainage the day after surgery
- Post-op kit with structured information on compression, nutrition, exercise, and aftercare, as well as premium nutritional supplements from DR. LIPP®.
- Premium compression garment is applied during surgery
- If necessary: intraoperative skin tightening (e.g., QuantumRF® or Renuvion® or surgical tightening)
5. Predictable processes & dedicated contact persons
- Clear, predictable timeframes instead of long waiting periods
- Continuous care from your lipedema experts
- No "doctor hopping" from the initial consultation to the final follow-up care
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.
