Does Liposuction Remove Visceral Fat?

If you’re considering body contouring to achieve a slimmer, healthier shape, it’s important to understand what types of fat can be removed. Liposuction does not remove visceral fat. This procedure targets subcutaneous fat located beneath the skin. Visceral fat, which surrounds your internal organs, must be reduced through lifestyle changes or medical weight loss strategies.

Liposuction remains one of the most popular procedures for sculpting and refining your figure. However, if your primary concern is reducing the deeper, more dangerous visceral fat, other approaches will be necessary. This article explains the differences between visceral and subcutaneous fat, how liposuction works, and the most effective ways to achieve long-term improvements in both your appearance and your health.

Table Of Contents

Understanding Body Fat: Visceral vs Subcutaneous

Body fat isn’t all the same.

What Is Visceral Fat?

Visceral fat is the deep, “hidden” fat that wraps around your internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. It’s not visible from the outside and cannot be pinched between your fingers. Visceral fat is metabolically active and can significantly impact your overall health.

What Is Subcutaneous Fat?

Subcutaneous fat is the soft, pinchable fat located just beneath your skin. This is the fat that accumulates in areas like your abdomen, thighs, arms, and hips. While subcutaneous fat can affect your appearance, it is generally less harmful than visceral fat.

Key Differences Between Visceral and Subcutaneous Fat

Location: Visceral fat is located deep inside the abdomen, while subcutaneous fat sits just under the skin.
Appearance: Subcutaneous fat is visible and can be pinched, whereas visceral fat cannot. Visceral fat also releases hormones and inflammatory substances that can disrupt metabolism, increase insulin resistance, and promote chronic inflammation throughout the body

Liposuction and Fat Removal

What Does Liposuction Do?

Liposuction is a surgical technique that physically removes fat cells from targeted areas of the body. Its primary purpose is to sculpt and contour by eliminating localized pockets of subcutaneous fat.

Does Liposuction Remove Visceral Fat?

The answer is no. Liposuction only targets subcutaneous fat, not visceral fat. The fat removed during liposuction is the kind you can pinch—found just under the skin, not deep within the abdominal cavity.

Why Visceral Fat Cannot Be Removed With Liposuction

Visceral fat is located inside the abdominal cavity, surrounding vital organs. Because of its position deep within the body, it cannot be safely accessed or removed with liposuction.

Managing and Reducing Visceral Fat

Since liposuction is designed only for cosmetic corrections, how can visceral fat be reduced? The most effective methods are non-surgical and focus on overall health. Here are the main options:

Lifestyle Changes for Visceral Fat Reduction

Regular Exercise: Engaging in consistent aerobic activity (such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming) helps burn calories and specifically targets belly fat, including visceral fat.
A Healthy and Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, while avoiding processed sugars and saturated fats, can help reduce visceral fat stores over time.
Reduced Stress: Chronic stress can increase levels of cortisol, a hormone that encourages visceral fat accumulation. Mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and adequate sleep can help manage stress.

Medical Interventions for Visceral Fat

Some patients may benefit from medical weight loss options, such as gastric balloon therapy. These approaches support overall fat loss, including visceral fat, through appetite reduction and lifestyle coaching. Alternative methods include prescription weight loss medications (under medical supervision), behavioral therapy structured programs, and virtual support, such as remote coaching and programs.

Candidates for Liposuction

Liposuction removes subcutaneous fat from specific areas of the body to create smoother, more attractive contours. It is not a weight loss procedure but rather a body-shaping technique. Good candidates are individuals who are close to their ideal body weight but have stubborn areas of subcutaneous fat resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction is not suitable for those seeking to lose large amounts of weight or reduce visceral fat.

Skin elasticity is a key factor for optimal results. Younger patients or those with healthy, resilient skin typically experience better contouring after liposuction. Patients with reduced skin elasticity may benefit from combining liposuction with skin tightening procedures to achieve smoother, firmer results.

Benefits and Limitations of Liposuction

Immediate and noticeable reduction of localized fat deposits
Enhanced body contours and improved proportions
Boosted self-confidence and body image
Liposuction does not treat obesity or improve overall health metrics
Cannot remove or reduce visceral fat
Results may be limited if skin elasticity is poor or if significant weight is regained after the procedure

Recovery and Maintaining Results After Liposuction

Patients usually experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort after the procedure. Most people can resume light activities within a few days and return to normal routines after several weeks.

Maintaining a stable weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise helps preserve your new body contours. Regular check-ins on your weight, body composition, and lifestyle habits are essential for long-term success. Consider periodic support from medical weight loss specialists to stay on track

Start Your Journey

While liposuction offers a powerful solution for removing stubborn subcutaneous fat, it cannot remove visceral fat or replace the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. If you’re looking to sculpt your body and feel more confident, explore our surgical options or speak to Dr. Giselle or Dr. Kim about medical weight loss support. Take the first step toward your transformation with Exert BodySculpt.

Conclusion

Liposuction is highly effective for removing unwanted subcutaneous fat, but it cannot remove visceral fat. For optimal health and long-lasting results, combine body contouring procedures with a commitment to regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management. Understanding the difference between visceral and subcutaneous fat empowers you to make informed choices for your body and overall well-being.