American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 
Theresa
6 years ago
Answered

How do you know if your stomach fat is visceral or over the muscle?

How do you know if your stomach fat is visceral or over the muscle, as far as being a good candidate for liposuction?

Procedure: Liposuction
Location: Hudson, OH

Replies 3

Gary Culbertson
ASPS Surgeon
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Great Question!! As a patients Weight or Body Mass Index (BMI) & Waist Size or Girth Increase the possibility of increasing the size of their visceral fat also increases. This can most accurately be determined by an MRI with weighted images/ contrast but also by body fat measurements. To determine if your fat is above the muscle (subcutaneous), below (visceral) or significantly located in both positions consider seeking the advise of an expert. Any member of the ASPS could make this determination with an examination & testing if you desire. Best,

Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS

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Shashidhar Kusuma
ASPS Surgeon

Yes, a great question. A pinch test of the skin and fat, an experienced surgeon's examination, BMI measurement, caliper based body fat measurement, CT and or MRI are all good ways to determine the difference.

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Jon Ver Halen

Hello and thank you for your excellent question. In general, if you suck in your belly, and pinch your skin, that will define your subcutaneous fat (i.e., what you can pinch), versus visceral fat (i.e., around the organs). It is best to answer your question during a face-to-face evaluation, when you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and you can have a physical examination to evaluate for that procedure. I recommend that you find a board-certified, or board-eligible plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of similar patients whom have had this procedure. If you have any questions, call our office for assistance. Good luck!

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