What is Subcutaneous Fat and how to get rid of it?
Updated: Aug 24
Subcutaneous Fat is the layer of fat cells between your skin and muscle. It is often called stubborn fat and can normally be pinched or squeezed by your hands and fingers.
It is different that Visceral Fat which is the fat surrounding your organs and the two area area separated by your muscle tissue.
While Subcutaneous Fat is normally harmless, it has a large impact on how people look and feel in their own bodies and its prominence is what motivates many people to start or ramp up their diet and exercise routines.
Why is Subcutaneous Fat stubborn?
When is diet and exercise plan is implemented, Visceral Fat is burned first, then the subcutaneous fat second. As you continue, your overall weight and dimensions may decrease, but that pinchable layer of subcutaneous fat can be the last to be burned, which causes it to be stubborn to burn.
Some Popular Ways to Get Rid of Subcutaneous Fat?
Lifestyle changes*
Try curbing carbs instead of fats
Think eating plan, not diet
Keep moving
Lift weights
Become a label reader (know what you're eating)
Move away from processed foods
Focus on the way your clothes fit more than reading a scale
Hang out with health-focused friends
Weight Loss Drugs/injections**
Semaglutide is only approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy
Studies show 50% of people lose 15% of body weight and 33% lost 20%
Studies show weight returns if you stop taking the drug
Partner with a qualified physician for risks, benefits and ongoing monitoring
Bariatric surgery***
BMI of 35 or greater, check your BMI from the CDC HERE
Other attempts at lifestyle changes have been unsuccessful
Numerous risks and complications to discuss with your physician
Hi-Definition Liposuction (Funsculpting)
Permanently removes fat from target area
No surgery required (minimally invasive-in clinic procedure)
Lower cost and shorter downtime than other forms of surgical fat removal
Benefits and risks should be discussed with a qualified physician
For people trying to get rid of stubborn subcutaneous fat, they should research options and discuss with their physician to evaluate the risks and benefits involved.
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