Stage 1. When you pinch the skin on your thigh between your thumb and forefinger and apply gentle pressure, small dimples appear on the skin, which disappear immediately when you release the skin. At this stage, fluid accumulates in the lymphatic vessels. 

Stage 2. The skin feels thicker and firmer to the touch; unevenness and bumps are visible without squeezing. 

Stage 3. Skin irregularities are visible to the naked eye, and pressing on the skin causes pain