What to expect from your consultation
We understand the challenges of living with lipoedema and lymphoedema and are here to help you feel more comfortable and confident
What to expect from your consultation
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or a bit anxious before your first appointment – especially if you don’t know what to expect. You might be wondering what will happen, who you’ll see, or whether you’ll be asked to do anything uncomfortable.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what happens before, during and after your appointment, so you know exactly what to expect.
Before your appointment
Once you’ve booked, you’ll get an email confirming everything. A member of the team will also give you a call nearer the time of your consultation to confirm that you’re still able to attend.
We’ll help you feel ready
- If you’re coming in, we’ll explain how to get here, how to prepare, and what to bring
- If you’re having a phone consultation, there’s nothing you need to do except find a quiet place where you can talk openly
I can’t believe that as soon as I walked in, I thought this is it, this is the right people here.
During your consultation
You’ll be seen by one of our specialist practitioners – an expert who knows this field inside out and will take the time to understand what’s going on.
We’ll start by asking: what do you want to achieve?
Maybe it’s getting through the day with less discomfort. Maybe it’s fitting into a favourite outfit again. We’ll work with whatever your goal is – helping you understand your condition and how to manage it in the long term.
If your appointment is by phone
- We’ll talk through your symptoms, history and any previous treatment
- You’ll get tailored advice and guidance
- There’s no examination, but we’ll be able to offer clear next steps
If you’re coming in person
- We’ll carry out a clinical assessment – including your skin, limb shape and swelling
- We’ll take measurements if compression hosiery is needed
- We’ll talk through your treatment options and start to build a plan
There are no invasive tests, no needles, and no bloods
Just practical, professional support focused on helping you manage your condition.
Who will I be seen by?
You’ll be seen by one of our advanced lymphoedema or lipoedema specialist therapists. Every member of the team is trained to carry out a full assessment and create a plan that’s tailored to you. You can find out more about the clinical team in our Meet the Team section.
After your consultation
You’ll leave with a clear plan and practical advice for managing your condition.
What we’ll give you
- A written summary of your appointment
- Advice on compression garments (often made to measure and prescribed via your GP)
- Exercises and guidance to support your care at home
- Suggestions for a review appointment and any treatments which may be beneficial,
Follow-up appointments
For some people, one consultation is enough. For others, it’s the start of a longer process. If you need ongoing support, we’ll talk you through the options and cost of any follow-up appointments with Accelerate.
What you might be offered:
Review appointment – £180 (up to 1 hour)
A follow-up appointment to review how you’re getting on with your personalised plan. We’ll reassess your symptoms, adjust your compression if needed, and help you stay on track. Typically this will be offered after 3 months of your first appointment unless you feel you need an earlier appointment.
Biomechanics assessment – £180 (up to 1 hour)
An expert assessment focused on how you move. We look at your posture and walking pattern to see if these may be affecting your swelling, pain or mobility. This will be discussed with you at your first appointment if the clinician seeing you feels its appropriate for you.
Podiatry assessment/treatment – £110 (up to 40 minutes)
Specialist foot and lower limb care, including pressure relief and support for foot-related issues that may affect mobility or swelling. As above, this will be discussed at your first appointment if appropriate.
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) – £180 (up to 1 hour)
A gentle, hands-on therapy that supports the movement of lymph fluid. Often used alongside compression to help reduce swelling and improve comfort. As above, this will be offered after your first appointment if appropriate.
Questions and concerns
We understand that you might be feeling anxious – especially if you’ve had frustrating experiences in the past. These are some of the most common questions people ask us.
Will I be listened to?
Yes. Our whole approach is based on listening and working with you. You’ll be central to every decision.
Will it hurt?
No. Nothing about the consultation is invasive or painful.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, absolutely. If it helps to have someone with you, they’re very welcome.
What is the clinic like?
Bright, open and welcoming. We work in airy, professional spaces designed to help you feel at ease. You’ll be seen in a private room by a clinician who will listen, explain things clearly, and make sure you feel safe and supported.
Will it make a difference?
We hope so – and many of our patients tell us it already has. You can read their feedback on Trustpilot
Our patients say it best
We’re proud of the care we give, but it means more when our patients say so too. Take a look at our five-star Trustpilot reviews.