The April 2026 Lipedema Patient Roundtable focused on one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of living with lipedema: adapting as your needs evolve, without guilt or shame. Panelists shared personal experiences of recognizing when conservative therapies were no longer enough, when surgery became the right choice, or when non-surgical management remained the best path. The overarching message was clear: there is no single “right way” to manage lipedema.
Special guest Hiba Hamati, Board Member of the American Lipedema Association (ALA), shared insights from her experiences undergoing multiple surgeries. She emphasized the importance of working with providers who support patients through changes in their care, rather than making them feel confined to one approach. Panelists also spoke candidly about the guilt that can come with changing doctors, adjusting treatment plans, or choosing surgery after years of trying to avoid it—reminding viewers that prioritizing your needs is not selfish, but essential.
The discussion explored a wide range of conservative therapies for managing lipedema. Some participants reported meaningful improvements through dietary changes, particularly reducing sugar and starches, while others found relief with compression, pneumatic pumps, swimming, and daily self-care routines. A key takeaway was that conservative therapies remain lifelong tools, whether or not surgery is part of a patient’s journey. Rather than trying to do everything, patients may benefit from focusing on strategies that have the greatest impact with the least burden.
Panelists also addressed the significant emotional and mental health toll of lipedema. Chronic pain, mobility challenges, social stigma, and years of medical gaslighting can take a lasting emotional toll. Many described feelings of isolation, shame, and depression, underscoring the importance of community, compassion, and shared understanding. Sometimes, simply hearing “I’m struggling too” can be a powerful part of healing.
The evening concluded with a tribute to the late Pattie Cornute, a beloved advocate and founding anchor of the Lipedema Patient Roundtable. The ALA announced the inaugural “All or Something Award,” sponsored by Lympha Press, to honor individuals who embody Pattie’s spirit of advocacy, grace, and support. Inspired by her belief that “all or something is enough,” the award celebrates the small, meaningful steps people take each day to care for themselves and others. Nominations are open through May 15, with finalists and the winner to be announced in early June.
The panel closed with a powerful reminder that while lipedema is a lifelong journey, no one has to navigate it alone. The Lympha Press Lipedema Patient Roundtable continues to provide a supportive community each third Wednesday of the month.
Thanks to our special guest and anchor panelists:
- Jenny Beaujean (@Jenny_Beajean)
- Siouxie Boshoff (@lipedema.living)
- Angelique Charles (@TheLippyButterfly)
- Cara Garrett (@PaleGingerPear)
- Hiba Hamati (@the.lipediva)
- Linda Anne Kahn (@lindaannekahn)
- Brenda Viola (@BrendaViola_ViciCommunications)
To find out more about pneumatic compression therapy that’s easy to live with, visit www.lymphapress.com.
This Roundtable was originally recorded live on April 15, 2026, and has been edited for time. The views and opinions expressed in this Patient Roundtable are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Lympha Press.
This video is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition or treatment.