Localized fat
Causes, differences with overweight and treatments to improve the body contour
Localized fat is a deposit of adipose tissue resistant to diet and exercise. Learn about its causes, how it is diagnosed and the available medical treatments, such as cryolipolysis or liposuction, to improve the body contour safely and naturally.
What is localized fat?
Localized fat is the accumulation of adipose tissue in certain areas of the body that persists despite maintaining an adequate weight, following a balanced diet or performing physical exercise.
It must not be confused with overweight or obesity. Many people with a normal body mass index present localized fat deposits due to genetic or hormonal factors.
Localized fat constitutes one of the most frequent reasons for consultation in body aesthetic medicine.
Why does it appear?
The distribution of body fat depends on multiple factors.
Genetics. It is the main determinant. Each person has a different predisposition to accumulate fat in certain areas of the body.
Hormonal factors. Hormones influence the distribution of body fat. Women tend to accumulate fat in the hips, thighs and buttocks; men more frequently present fat in the abdomen and flanks. Hormonal changes, such as menopause, also modify this distribution.
Ageing. With age, muscle mass decreases and metabolism changes, favouring the accumulation of fat in certain areas.
Lifestyle. A sedentary lifestyle and a hypercaloric diet favour the overall increase in body fat, although they are not the only explanation for localized fat.
Where does it appear most frequently?
The most usual areas are:
- Abdomen.
- Flanks.
- Hips.
- Thighs.
- Buttocks.
- Inner side of the knees.
- Arms.
- Back.
- Double chin.
Localized fat or cellulite?
Although they can coexist, they are different problems.
Localized fat consists of an increase in adipose tissue. Aesthetic cellulite is an alteration of the structure of the subcutaneous tissue that produces the characteristic 'orange-peel skin' appearance.
Each one requires a specific treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
The diagnosis is made by means of a medical assessment. During the consultation, the distribution of body fat, the quality of the skin, the presence of laxity, the associated cellulite, the muscle mass, the body weight and the expectations of the patient are analysed.
The objective is to determine whether the treatment should aim to reduce fat, improve firmness or combine both strategies.
What treatments exist?
The treatment will depend on the amount of fat and the characteristics of each patient.
Diet and exercise. They always constitute the basis of the treatment. A balanced diet, a caloric deficit when necessary, strength training and cardiovascular exercise are recommended. These measures improve body composition and general health.
Cryolipolysis. It uses controlled cold to reduce certain deposits of localized fat. It is indicated in selected patients and does not replace weight loss.
Body radiofrequency. It can improve the firmness of the skin when there is associated laxity. It does not eliminate significant amounts of fat.
Electromagnetic muscle stimulation technologies. Some devices make it possible to intensely stimulate the musculature and complement body remodelling programmes.
Liposuction. It continues to be the most effective treatment to eliminate significant deposits of localized fat. It must be performed by an experienced surgeon and does not constitute a treatment for obesity.
Other procedures. There are other technologies intended for body remodelling whose indication will depend on each patient and the available scientific evidence.
What results can be expected?
The objectives of the treatment are to reduce localized fat deposits, improve the body contour, achieve a more harmonious silhouette and maintain natural results.
The best results are obtained when the medical treatment is accompanied by healthy habits.
Can it be prevented?
Genetic predisposition cannot be modified. However, these measures help reduce the risk of fat accumulation: maintain a stable weight, follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, sleep adequately and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
When to consult?
It is advisable to consult when there are fat deposits that do not improve with diet and exercise, you want to improve the body contour, you present localized fat together with laxity or cellulite, or you want to know which treatment can be most appropriate for your case.
Myths and facts
- Myth: Localized fat can be eliminated by doing exercises for that area. Fact: It is not possible to reduce fat from a specific area through specific exercises. Fat loss occurs globally.
- Myth: Cryolipolysis is used to lose weight. Fact: No. It is indicated for localized fat deposits, not to treat overweight or obesity.
- Myth: Liposuction helps lose weight. Fact: Its objective is to remodel the body contour, not to significantly reduce weight.
- Myth: Slim people do not have localized fat. Fact: Many people with a normal weight present resistant fat deposits.
- Myth: Treatments replace a healthy life. Fact: The best results are always achieved by combining medical procedures with a balanced diet and exercise.
The essential points to remember
- Localized fat is not synonymous with overweight.
- Genetics plays a fundamental role in its appearance.
- A healthy diet and exercise are the basis of the treatment.
- There are medical procedures that help improve the body contour in selected patients.
- Cryolipolysis and liposuction have different indications.
- Medical assessment makes it possible to choose the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
Frequently asked questions
Does localized fat disappear with diet?
It can decrease, but some deposits persist due to genetic predisposition.
What is the best treatment?
It depends on the volume of fat, the quality of the skin and the objectives of the patient.
Is cryolipolysis painful?
It generally produces mild and transient discomfort during the application.
Are the results immediate?
No. Most treatments show a progressive improvement over the following weeks or months.
Can I treat several areas?
Yes. The therapeutic plan is adapted individually.
Are the results permanent?
The eliminated fat cells do not regenerate, but weight gain can make the remaining ones grow.
Is exercise still necessary?
Yes. It is fundamental to maintain the results and improve body composition.
Does localized fat produce cellulite?
Not necessarily, although both alterations can coexist.
Does liposuction leave scars?
The incisions are usually very small and discreet.
Who is a good candidate for these treatments?
People with a relatively stable weight, good general health and localized fat deposits who want to improve their body contour.
Need personalised guidance?
This guide is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. For an assessment tailored to your case, you may request a consultation.
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