Body Image and Related Factors in Patients with Lower Extremity Lymphoedema and Lipedema

Abstract

Chronic edema in the lower extremities leads to significant negative effects on quality of life(QOL), body image perception, satisfaction, self-confidence, and self-esteem of affected individuals. This study aims to evaluate body image, QOL, and related factors in the lower extremity edema.This cross-sectional study includes 14 lymphedema, 12 lipedema patients receiving manual lymphatic drainage(MLD) treatment between December 1–30, 2023. Body image, dysfunctional thoughts about appearance, and QOL were evaluated using the Body Cathexis Scale (BCS), Beliefs About Appearance Scale (BAAS), and Lymphedema Quality of Life (LYMQOL). Circumference measurements of the lower extremities were taken before and after 20 sessions MLD. The mean age was 57.27 ± 11.5. No significant differences were found between the lymphedema and lipedema groups in terms of age, BMI, or pre-treatment BCS, BAAS, and LYMQOL scores (p > 0.05). Improvements in BCS and LYMQOL scores were significantly correlated with reductions in limb circumferences (p < 0.05). Post-treatment, both groups experienced significant improvements in body image and QOL scores, with no significant differences between the groups. It highlights that patients with lower extremity lymphedema and lipedema experience significant body image disturbances and reduced QOL. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial not only for physical healt but also for enhancing social and mental well-being.