Body image and related factors in patients with lower extremity lymphedema and lipedema: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: Chronic edema in the lower extremities leads to significant negative effects on the quality of life, body image perception, satisfaction, self-confidence, and self-esteem of affected individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate body image, quality of life, and related factors in patients with chronic lower extremity edema due to lymphedema and lipedema. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 14 lymphedema and 12 lipedema patients receiving treatment at the lymphedema unit. Individuals aged 18-65 years with a confirmed diagnosis were enrolled; those with active infections, malignancies, or systemic diseases were excluded. Body image, dysfunctional thoughts about appearance, and quality of life were evaluated using the Body Cathexis Scale, Beliefs About Appearance Scale, and Lymphedema Quality of Life scale. Circumference measurements of the lower extremities were taken before and after 20 sessions of manual lymphatic drainage therapy. Quantitative data were analyzed to compare the two groups and assess correlations between clinical and psychosocial parameters. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed between the lymphedema and lipedema groups in terms of age, body mass index, or pre-treatment Body Cathexis Scale, Beliefs About Appearance Scale, and Lymphedema Quality of Life scale scores (p>0.05). After 20 sessions of manual lymphatic drainage therapy, both groups showed reductions in limb circumference measurements (p<0.05). Reductions in limb size were moderately associated with improvements in Body Cathexis Scale and Lymphedema Quality of Life scale scores (p<0.05). Post-treatment improvements in body image and quality of life scores were observed in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights that patients with lower extremity lymphedema and lipedema experience significant body image disturbances and reduced quality of life. Manual lymphatic drainage therapy improves limb circumference, body image, and quality of life.