The Futility of Liposuction

Not all fat has the same metabolic effects. All enlarged fat cells produce toxic substances but the visceral fat, fat which surrounds the intestines, affects the liver because its blood flow goes directly through the liver via the portal circulation. Cosmetic removal of subcutaneous fat does not affect toxic visceral fat. Only reduction in energy balance can reduce visceral fat. That means less calories in or more calories out. Daily vigilance in lifestyle choices is the only way.

Note that the "apron" has been removed by liposuction but the intestine remains surrounded by visceral fat (lighter colour in the MRI scans on the right.