Subcutaneous Fat Removal is Key, Visceral Fat Management is Essential

Winter, with its cold weather, naturally increases energy consumption and basal metabolic rate, making it an ideal season for weight loss. However, in modern society, advancements in heating technology have made winter a season where gaining weight is more common.

Spending more time indoors in the warmth leads to increased snacking and reduced physical activity. The ability to hide one's body shape under winter clothes also makes people less conscious of their figure, often resulting in weight gain. Abdominal fat, in particular, tends to accumulate easily, causing the belly to fold and sag even when stationary, leading to greater concern.

For those struggling to lose abdominal fat, liposuction can be a viable option. Liposuction is a surgical procedure that directly removes fat, but it's important to note that the abdomen consists of both subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Only subcutaneous fat can be removed surgically. Therefore, it's crucial to assess which areas of the abdomen have more fat, the skin's elasticity, and the specific benefits expected from liposuction before deciding on the surgical approach.

Even after removing subcutaneous fat through liposuction, if visceral fat is also excessively developed, the abdominal wall may still protrude, leading to dissatisfaction with the results. Managing visceral fat is possible only through diet, making it important to continue overall body management even after liposuction.

Dr. Seo Yongseung of Lesarts Plastic Surgery advises, “When considering liposuction for abdominal obesity, it is essential to accurately analyze the overall size, amount of fat, fat distribution, and the purpose of liposuction to develop a suitable surgical plan. After the procedure, it is crucial to manage visceral fat and focus on overall fat reduction. Depending on the case, post-operative care to enhance skin elasticity should also be integrated into a systematic approach. The surgeon’s extensive experience and skill are important factors to consider when selecting a hospital.”