Visceral FAT and VASER

As the majority of my work consists of body contouring I see many patients that spend many months and even years in the gym trying to get rid of unwanted fat.  This is often combined with healthy diet and lifestyle. 

Occasionally patients have only recently changed their lifestyle and attitude towards exercise and become really frustrated when they see no change in their shape or contour.  In many cases seeing a nutritionist (here is an excellent one by the way) can be of great value in tweaking your diet and eating routine.  Most can also assess your food intolerances which may be contributing to the sensation of bloatedness and give you advice on combinations of foods.  Money well worth spent.

If fat has accumulated over a few years then its most likely visceral fat.  An excess of visceral fat is known as central obesity, the "pot belly" or "beer belly" effect, in which the abdomen protrudes excessively (see picture). 

This body type is also known as "apple shaped‚" as opposed to "pear shaped‚" in which fat is deposited on the hips and buttocks (more commonly seen in women). 

This is not in the superficial layer under the skin but fat that has been deposited around your organs (see figure below).

 With any form of VASER, liposuction or fat removal this can only be performed in the subcutaneous fat layer. One cannot enter the abdominal cavity under the muscle.

This fat content unfortunately only responds to weight loss and changes in diet and lifestyle. And yes, it responds VERY SLOWLY and this is why many patients become so frustrated.  When treating patients with significant amount of visceral it is imperative that they agree to make lifestyle modifications and diet changes.  Subcutaneous fat removal can help and may speed up the loss of visceral fat, but only in conjunction with the above.

Visceral fat has many health implications. There is a strong connection to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.  Central obesity plays an important role in the impairment of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism shown in high-carbohydrate diets.  Diet modifications and lifestyle CHANGES ARE THIS VITAL.

More male patients have now also sought the help for contouring - see Daily Mail online

In summary, results are achievable, however, it is not easy and requires a combination of angles of attack.  See what exercises are worth considering.....