Localised fat

At our centres in Madrid, at Serrano 166 and in La Moraleja

Specialists in

Treatments to eliminate localised fat

Localised fat represents a significant aesthetic challenge for many patients. In some cases, despite maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise, it is difficult to eliminate stubborn adipose deposits. Cellulite, accumulation on the flanks, and other localised deposits are common visible signs of this condition. At the Grupo Pedro Jaén Body Aesthetics Unit, we offer body treatments designed to significantly improve this condition.

Specialists in localised fat treatments in Madrid (Spain). Clinics at Calle Serrano and La Moraleja.

Recognised reference clinics in Spain

What sets us apart

Advanced techniques tailored to each patient

At the Grupo Pedro Jaén Body Aesthetics Unit, we use advanced treatments to remodel the body contour, addressing persistent adipose deposits. These procedures are indicated for individuals who, despite leading a healthy lifestyle, wish to contour their figure in specific areas. Using innovative techniques, we reduce the number of adipocytes in targeted zones, achieving a more harmonious silhouette and long-lasting results, always with a personalised approach that respects the individual needs of each patient.

Localised fat

Further information about this condition and our specialists

What it is, where it appears and available treatments

A guide to understanding localised fat

Localised fat, together with cellulite, skin laxity and excess weight, is one of the main factors that alter body contour aesthetics. Although localised fat is often confused with cellulite, they are in fact different conditions, even though they may coexist in the same patient.

The accumulation of fat in a specific anatomical area is known as localised fat or localised lipodystrophy. It is caused by an increase in both the number and size of adipocytes—fat cells located in the deep hypodermis (the innermost layers of the skin).

In patients who are overweight or obese, localised fat may improve with weight loss. However, it is not a condition exclusively associated with excess weight. In fact, it can affect individuals with a healthy weight, and even very slim people who exercise regularly and follow a balanced diet.

Information on localised fat: abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, flanks and other areas

Where it appears and types of localised fat

The areas of the body most prone to the accumulation of localised fat deposits are the abdomen, thighs and buttocks, although it can also occur in the arms and trunk. The main causes of localised fat accumulation are genetic and hormonal factors. While it can affect both sexes, it is significantly more common in women.

Depending on the distribution of fat deposits, we usually distinguish between the following types:

Central or abdominal adiposity

Fat accumulates mainly in the abdomen and flanks, resulting in an apple-shaped body contour. This pattern is more common in postmenopausal women and in men. In addition to its aesthetic impact, this type of lipodystrophy may be associated with negative cardiovascular health implications.

Peripheral adiposity

This type of localised fat is typically seen in women, although it may also occur in a small percentage of men. Fat accumulates predominantly in the hips and buttocks, giving the body a pear-shaped contour.

“In most cases, the best results are achieved by combining different therapeutic options and acting at an early stage.”

Treatments for localised fat

Some of the main treatments used to reduce or eliminate localised fat include the following

Non-surgical treatments

Mesotherapy

This treatment involves the subcutaneous injection of lipolytic and draining agents tailored to each patient’s needs. At Grupo Pedro Jaén, we usually perform deep mesotherapy, which allows the active substances to be delivered more precisely into the deeper layers of the skin, improving their effectiveness. This technique is well tolerated, not painful and does not cause bruising.

Carboxytherapy

Carboxytherapy consists of the injection of medical-grade carbon dioxide beneath the skin to improve tissue oxygenation and nutrition. It is particularly useful for patients who present localised fat in combination with cellulite. More information about carboxytherapy.

Cryolipolysis

A non-invasive body treatment designed to eliminate localised fat deposits in areas such as the abdomen, flanks, back, inner thighs, subgluteal region and outer thighs (saddlebags) by destroying adipocytes through controlled cooling. Cryolipolysis has become one of the most effective non-surgical options for reducing unwanted fat and achieving a more harmonious, contoured silhouette. More information about cryolipolysis.

Shock wave therapy

This technology uses high-energy acoustic pressure waves delivered through a specialised handpiece. The waves penetrate deeply into the tissue, breaking down fat nodules so they can be naturally eliminated through the body’s physiological pathways. It is particularly suitable for treating localised fat in the abdomen, buttocks, thighs and arms.

Radiofrequency

A device-based treatment that targets skin laxity and localised fat by inducing controlled heat in the deeper layers of the skin. It has a lipolytic effect and improves skin texture by stimulating collagen and elastin production.

Combined wood therapy

Wood therapy involves stimulating the treatment areas using specially designed wooden instruments of different shapes and sizes, adapted to different areas of the body and face. Its main advantage is that it enables deeper massage than manual techniques alone. Depending on the patient’s needs, it may be combined with radiofrequency or endermology (mechanical lipolytic massage).

Diode laser

Diode laser treatment is an advanced lipolysis system for eliminating fat deposits that do not respond to other non-invasive body treatments or persist despite exercise and a healthy diet. Its mechanism of action is based on increasing the temperature of the treated area to destroy adipocytes, allowing the excess fat to be eliminated through the lymphatic system.

Liposuction

A conventional surgical procedure that removes localised fat by aspiration using cannulas of different diameters, depending on the treatment area. This procedure is performed within our Plastic Surgery Unit.

Clinic specialising in localised fat treatments in Madrid (Spain)

More information

Below you will find the authorship and references for the information provided on this page:

Authorship and references

The content of this page has been prepared by the Communication Department and the Medical Team of Grupo Pedro Jaén, in line with our editorial commitment to ensuring the accuracy and up-to-date nature of the information provided.

References on treatments for localised fat:

1. Ingargiola MJ, Motakef S, Chung MT, Vasconez HC, Sasaki GH. Cryolipolysis for fat reduction and body contouring: safety and efficacy of current treatment paradigms. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015 Jun;135(6):1581-1590. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000001236. PMID: 26017594; PMCID: PMC4444424.

2. Sasaki GH. Reply: Cryolipolysis for Fat Reduction and Body Contouring: Safety and Efficacy of Current Treatment Paradigms. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2016 Mar;137(3):640e-641e. doi: 10.1097/01.prs.0000479983.49996.c0. PMID: 26910712.

3. Derrick CD, Shridharani SM, Broyles JM. The Safety and Efficacy of Cryolipolysis: A Systematic Review of Available Literature. Aesthet Surg J. 2015 Sep;35(7):830-6. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjv039. Epub 2015 Jun 2. PMID: 26038367.

4. Park JH, Wee SY, Chang J, Hong S, Lee JH, Cho KW, Choi CY. Carboxytherapy-Induced Fat loss is Associated with VEGF-Mediated Vascularization. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2018 Dec;42(6):1681-1688. doi: 10.1007/s00266-018-1222-y. Epub 2018 Sep 7. PMID: 30194505.

5. Lee GS. Quality survey on efficacy of carboxytherapy for localized lipolysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2016 Dec;15(4):484-492. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12242. Epub 2016 Jun 21. PMID: 27325211.

6. Jayasinghe S, Guillot T, Bissoon L, Greenway F. Mesotherapy for local fat reduction. Obes Rev. 2013 Oct;14(10):780-91. doi: 10.1111/obr.12049. Epub 2013 Jun 25. PMID: 23800269.

7. Chen DL, Cohen JL, Green JB. Injectable agents affecting subcutaneous fats. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2015 Sep;34(3):134-7. doi: 10.12788/j.sder.2015.0166. PMID: 26566569.

8. Stein MJ, Theodorou S, Chia CT. Two-stage Radiofrequency-assisted Lipoabdominoplasty. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2022 Apr 25;10(4):e4212. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000004212. PMID: 35494885; PMCID: PMC9038494.

9. Theodorou S, Chia C. Radiofrequency-assisted Liposuction for Arm Contouring: Technique under Local Anesthesia. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2013 Sep 10;1(5):e37. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0b013e3182a58c80. PMID: 25289231; PMCID: PMC4174202.

10. Chia CT, Theodorou SJ, Hoyos AE, Pitman GH. Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction Compared with Aggressive Superficial, Subdermal Liposuction of the Arms: A Bilateral Quantitative Comparison. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2015 Aug 10;3(7):e459. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000000429. PMID: 26301148; PMCID: PMC4527633.

11. Theodorou SJ, Paresi RJ, Chia CT. Radiofrequency-assisted liposuction device for body contouring: 97 patients under local anesthesia. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2012 Aug;36(4):767-79. doi: 10.1007/s00266-011-9846-1. Epub 2012 Mar 31. PMID: 22466060.

12. Hurwitz D, Smith D. Treatment of overweight patients by radiofrequency-assisted liposuction (RFAL) for aesthetic reshaping and skin tightening. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2012 Feb;36(1):62-71. doi: 10.1007/s00266-011-9783-z. Epub 2011 Jul 13. PMID: 21751063.

13. Wat H, Wu DC, Goldman MP. Noninvasive Body Contouring: A Male Perspective. Dermatol Clin. 2018 Jan;36(1):49-55. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2017.09.007. PMID: 29108545.

14. Modena DAO, da Silva CN, Grecco C, Guidi RM, Moreira RG, Coelho AA, Sant’Ana E, de Souza JR. Extracorporeal shockwave: mechanisms of action and physiological aspects for cellulite, body shaping, and localized fat-Systematic review. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2017 Oct;19(6):314-319. doi: 10.1080/14764172.2017.1334928. Epub 2017 Jun 7. PMID: 28590827.

15. Ferraro GA, De Francesco F, Cataldo C, Rossano F, Nicoletti G, D’Andrea F. Synergistic effects of cryolipolysis and shock waves for noninvasive body contouring. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2012 Jun;36(3):666-79. doi: 10.1007/s00266-011-9832-7. Epub 2011 Nov 1. PMID: 22042359.

16. Fontes AR, Martins ASM, Costa BSPD, Noites A, Marques L. Comparison of the effects of shock waves versus radiofrequency on abdominal lipolysis: A randomized clinical trial. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Sep;21(9):3821-3831. doi: 10.1111/jocd.14690. Epub 2022 Mar 7. PMID: 35255184.

17. Abboud S, Hachem JP. Heat Shock Lipolysis: Radiofrequency Combined with Cryolipolysis for the Reduction of Localized Subcutaneous Fat. Dermatol Res Pract. 2020 Feb 7;2020:4093907. doi: 10.1155/2020/4093907. PMID: 32089673; PMCID: PMC7029295.

18. Alexiades M, Munavalli GS. Single Treatment Protocol With Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency for Treatment of Body Skin Laxity and Fat Deposits. Lasers Surg Med. 2021 Oct;53(8):1026-1031. doi: 10.1002/lsm.23397. Epub 2021 Mar 25. PMID: 33764552; PMCID: PMC8518615.

19. Shridharani SM, Broyles JM, Matarasso A. Liposuction devices: technology update. Med Devices (Auckl). 2014 Jul 21;7:241-51. doi: 10.2147/MDER.S47322. PMID: 25093000; PMCID: PMC4114741.

20. Kislevitz M, Wamsley C, Kang A, Kilmer S, Hoopman J, Barillas J, Kenkel JM. Clinical Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of a 1060-nm Diode Laser for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction of the Abdomen. Aesthet Surg J. 2021 Sep 14;41(10):1155-1165. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjaa418. PMID: 33647960; PMCID: PMC8438592.

21. Bass LS, Doherty ST. Safety and Efficacy of a Non-Invasive 1060 nm Diode Laser for Fat Reduction of the Abdomen. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018 Jan 1;17(1):106-112. PMID: 29320595.

22. Moon IJ, Choi JW, Jung CJ, Kim S, Park E, Won CH. Efficacy and safety of a novel combined 1060-nm and 635-nm laser device for non-invasive reduction of abdominal and submental fat. Lasers Med Sci. 2022 Feb;37(1):505-512. doi: 10.1007/s10103-021-03288-z. Epub 2021 Apr 2. PMID: 33797649.

Where we see patients?

Clinics in Madrid

Grupo Pedro Jaén is a medical group founded more than three decades ago with the aim of providing medical, surgical and aesthetic solutions related to skin health and appearance. Led by Dr Pedro Jaén, the group brings together top-level specialists in each area, maintains a strong commitment to training and medical research, and operates several clinics in Madrid, offering care of the highest quality and excellence.

Exterior of the Grupo Pedro Jaén clinic on Calle Serrano

Calle Serrano 166

This centre currently offers services in body aesthetic medicine, endocrinology, nutrition, complementary aesthetic medicine and post-surgical aesthetic treatments.

Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 21:00 / Sat: 09:00 - 14:00

Calle Serrano 166, El Viso neighbourhood, Chamartín district, 28002 Madrid

Grupo Pedro Jaén - La Moraleja

La Moraleja

Located in Plaza de La Moraleja, this exclusive centre allows Grupo Pedro Jaén to bring its medical and aesthetic services closer to patients across the entire northern area of Madrid.

Mon - Thu: 09:30 - 20:00 / Fri: 09:30 - 18:00

Calle de la Estafeta 8, ground floor, La Moraleja, 28109 Alcobendas, Madrid, Spain

Related units and pages

Facial aesthetics

Minimally invasive treatments to improve facial appearance with harmonious and natural-looking results.

Body aesthetics

A personalised approach combining different treatment strategies to address the main body-related concerns.

Male aesthetics

Surgical and aesthetic treatments fully adapted to male facial and body anatomy.

Scars

Fully personalised treatments tailored to the type and specific characteristics of each scar.

Plastic surgery

Treatment of facial and body aesthetic and functional concerns that require a surgical solution.

Complementary aesthetics

Cosmetic and aesthetic treatments that address beauty from a clinical perspective to achieve optimal results.

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