Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that refines body contours by removing localized fat deposits. It addresses specific areas where fat has accumulated and resisted diet and exercise. Understanding which type of fat liposuction targets is important for setting realistic expectations.
The Two Primary Types of Body Fat
The human body stores fat in different ways, with two main types being most relevant to body aesthetics and health: subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat located directly beneath the skin. It is the visible, pinchable fat that often accumulates in areas like the abdomen, thighs, and hips, contributing to localized bulges that can be resistant to traditional weight loss methods.
Visceral fat, conversely, is situated deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat is not visible externally and is metabolically active, releasing substances that can contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance. High levels of visceral fat are associated with increased risks for various health issues, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
How Liposuction Targets Subcutaneous Fat
Liposuction targets and removes subcutaneous fat, which is accessible due to its superficial location just below the skin. The procedure involves small incisions, inserting a thin tube called a cannula, and using suction to physically remove fat cells.
This permanently reduces the number of fat cells in treated regions, leading to a more sculpted contour. While removed fat cells are permanently removed, remaining fat cells can still expand with weight gain. Therefore, maintaining a stable weight after liposuction is important for preserving results.
Common Treatment Areas for Liposuction
Liposuction is frequently applied to areas where subcutaneous fat tends to accumulate stubbornly. These areas often include the abdomen, flanks (often called “love handles”), and the inner and outer thighs. Many individuals find these pockets of fat difficult to reduce through diet and exercise alone.
Other common treatment zones include the buttocks, arms, back, chin, and neck. Liposuction allows addressing these localized fat deposits, helping to create a more harmonious body shape by reducing volume in specific regions. This makes it a popular option for body contouring rather than overall weight reduction.
What Liposuction Does Not Address
Liposuction is a body contouring procedure, not a solution for significant weight loss or obesity. The amount of fat removed is modest, focusing on reshaping specific areas rather than reducing overall body weight. Individuals close to their ideal weight with stubborn fat pockets are the best candidates.
Liposuction does not remove visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs and is associated with metabolic health risks. The procedure also does not effectively treat cellulite, dimpled skin, or tighten loose skin. Addressing excess skin often requires additional procedures, such as a tummy tuck, which may be performed with or separate from liposuction.