Can Liposuction Remove Internal Fat?
When it comes to body shaping and regional slimming, one of the first aesthetic procedures that comes to mind is liposuction. Liposuction offers an attractive option especially for those who want to get rid of stubborn fat that does not go away with diet and exercise. However, there is a frequently asked question at this point: Can liposuction also remove internal fat, that is, visceral fat accumulated around the organs?
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is the process of removing excess fat tissue accumulated in certain areas of the body with the help of a vacuum. It is usually applied in areas such as the abdomen, waist, hips, thighs, arms, back and under the chin. Liposuction is not a method of losing weight, but an aesthetic surgical procedure aimed at correcting body contours and getting rid of regional excesses. During this procedure, the subcutaneous fat tissue under the skin is broken down with special cannulas and vacuumed out of the body.
What is the Difference Between Internal Fat and External Fat?
There are two main types of fat in our body:
The first is “subcutaneous fat” that accumulates under the skin and can be touched. These fats are generally the ones that create aesthetic concerns, define body lines and can be removed with liposuction.
The second is the “visceral fat” or “inner fat” as it is known among the public, which accumulates in the abdominal cavity around the internal organs. Visceral fats are located around the liver, intestines and other internal organs and cannot be touched. These fats are riskier in terms of health and are associated with serious diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Which Fats Does Liposuction Remove?
The liposuction procedure only targets subcutaneous fats under the skin. In other words, fats accumulated between the skin and the muscle layer in areas such as the abdomen, waist and hips can be removed with liposuction. However, visceral fats located around the internal organs cannot be removed with liposuction. Because these fats are located under the abdominal muscles, between the organs and cannot be reached surgically. During the liposuction procedure, the surgeon only intervenes in the fat tissue under the skin; reaching the internal fats is both technically impossible and extremely risky in terms of health.
What is the Way to Get Rid of Internal Fat?
The only way to get rid of visceral fat is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep and stress management are the most effective methods for reducing visceral fat. Aerobic exercises (such as walking, running, cycling, swimming) and resistance training in particular help burn visceral fat. In addition, staying away from processed foods, sugary drinks and trans fats plays an important role in reducing visceral fat.
Who is Liposuction Suitable For?
Liposuction is suitable for people who are close to their ideal weight but have stubborn fat accumulation in certain areas. It is not performed for weight loss; it is preferred for body shaping and contour correction. In addition, people with good skin elasticity, good general health and realistic expectations are ideal candidates for liposuction. Lifestyle changes are primarily recommended for people with excessive visceral fat, i.e., those with a swollen and hard abdominal area.
What to Consider After Liposuction?
After liposuction, it is very important to gain healthy eating and regular exercise habits so that the removed fat does not accumulate again. Otherwise, the body may start storing fat in other areas. Also, since liposuction does not affect internal fat, the risk of cardiovascular health and metabolic diseases may continue. Therefore, people who have liposuction should also maintain a healthy lifestyle.
