Carla Keech first noticed her legs were larger than other girls at age 10. Her swollen legs were caused by lipoedema, a condition characterized by abnormal fat buildup under the skin. She underwent life-changing surgery that shrunk the size of her legs, dramatically improving her mobility and confidence.
TV presenter Josie Gibson also underwent surgery for lipoedema, including liposuction and an arm lift (brachioplasty). A week after the procedure, Gibson reported feeling 'really good,' noting that the recovery was smoother than expected.
Lipoedema occurs most commonly in the legs, hips, bottom, and sometimes arms. The condition can cause pain, tenderness, easy bruising, and a disproportionate body shape that does not respond to conventional diet or exercise. It is more common in women and rarely affects men. Lipoedema is not the same as obesity, and many patients struggle for years before receiving a correct diagnosis.