Tampa

Defining Fat: How To Get The Best Body Contouring And Weight Loss Results

Creator: Jeffrey Atlas
Published: 2024-06-07T08:00:00-04:00
Keywords: body contouring Tampa, weight loss Tampa, types of body fat, multimodal body contouring, liposuction alternatives, body sculpting Florida, GLP-1 weight loss

Written By: Jeffrey Atlas, PA-C, Health Content Writer

Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Gopal Grandhige, MD, FACS, Board-Certified Surgeon

Last Reviewed: June 5, 2024

Body contouring combines surgical and non-surgical methods to reshape the body by targeting three distinct types of fat: visceral fat (stored around internal organs), deep subcutaneous fat (between skin and muscle), and superficial fat (just beneath the skin’s surface). According to board-certified surgeon Dr. Gopal Grandhige, achieving optimal body contouring results requires a comprehensive multimodal approach that addresses each fat layer through GLP-1 medications, nutrition coaching, fitness training, and surgical procedures, rather than relying on liposuction alone.

The most effective body contouring strategy treats fat removal as part of overall health improvement. Patients who combine lifestyle modifications with surgical interventions achieve more natural, sustainable results compared to those pursuing surgery-only approaches. Understanding which type of fat contributes to your body shape, whether it’s visceral fat causing abdominal protrusion, deep fat creating pinchable areas, or superficial fat affecting contours, is essential for selecting the right treatment plan and setting realistic expectations for body transformation outcomes.

What is fat and what does it do?

Fats are essential nutrients found in food that the body utilizes to construct cell membranes, nerve tissue in the brain and body, and hormones. The body relies on fat as a source of energy. When fats consumed are not used for energy or as building materials, they are stored in the body’s fat cells.

The elements of fat removal

One key aspect of a comprehensive approach to body contouring is understanding the three layers of fat and their impact on body shape. Visceral, deep, and superficial fat contribute to the body’s overall appearance, and surgery alone is not enough to address these layers.

“If I just address it with liposuction, you will often end up with like a fake appearance because a lot of guys hold fat behind their muscle, and it’s not pinchable fat, so therefore, you’re not getting that great body contour,” Dr. Grandhige explains. These are the three primary forms in which fat is classified:

Visceral fat: stored deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines.
– Example: Imagine a person who has a protruding belly, but most of the fat is hidden internally around their organs. That hidden fat is visceral fat.

Deep fat: adipose tissue beneath the skin (subcutaneous fat) but not as deep as visceral fat. It lies between the skin and the muscles.
– When you pinch the skin on your thighs or arms, the layer of fat you feel is deep fat.

Superficial fat: the outermost layer of subcutaneous fat lying just beneath the skin. It contributes to body shape and contours.
– The fat that gives a soft curve to your cheeks or adds plumpness to your lips is superficial.

Taking a multimodal approach to weight loss

To achieve optimal results in overweight or obese patients, a multimodal approach to body contouring is necessary. This involves combining GLP-1 medications, nutrition and fitness coaching, and surgery.

“Whenever we treat the person fully, we do mindset, nutrition, fitness coaching, and the surgery. That’s the only way you’re going to get the kind of results you really want,” says Dr. Grandhige.

The benefits of combining these modalities are numerous. By addressing the underlying causes of excess fat, patients can achieve a more natural and sustainable result.

“We consistently have amazing results. But it’s because we’re not just simply saying, ‘We’re gonna suck the fat out, and you’re gonna look perfect,'” says Dr. Grandhige. “We’re telling the patient, ‘You need to do this over here, which is lose 20 pounds, you need to do this over there, which is build up this muscle group, maybe build up your core, and then tie that to healthy nutrition and tie that to our procedures.'”

Common misconceptions about surgical body contouring

One of the most common misconceptions about body contouring is that it’s as simple as looking at before-and-after photos, choosing what you want, swiping your card, and suddenly, you look like that photo.

Dr. Grandhige’s approach involves understanding body contouring from all angles. But, many stories circulate online about people who spend significant amounts on surgery or programs, only to regain the weight later.

He acknowledges this, “The doctor made off with some money, and three years later, you don’t look any different.” Achieving optimal results requires understanding the entire process, managing expectations, and “bridging the gap between what the patient wants and why they want it,” and committing to long-term lifestyle changes.

Dr. Grandhige’s understanding of anatomy and physiology in the context of body contouring leads to much more durable outcomes. It’s about empowering patients with tools, knowledge, and a comprehensive approach.

“I’m not in the business of shortcuts. I’m giving people tools. And when we use tools, I think tools get you from point A to point B and your goal much quicker,” he says.

Choosing the right body contouring specialist

Choosing the right body contouring specialist is also crucial to achieving optimal results. The biggest thing you need to look for is finding a specialist who takes a comprehensive approach.

“In order to contour a body, you must understand all parts of the body, inside and out, from the internal organs, the musculature, and the fat to the skin,” Grandhige explains. “As a board-certified general surgeon and bariatric surgeon who’s very familiar with both the inside and the outside, I’m equipped to be a true body contouring specialist in every sense of the word.”

When choosing a specialist, he recommends asking questions and researching to ensure the specialist takes a comprehensive approach.

“My suggestions range from a very clear, ‘I need you to lose weight and get your fitness up’ to ‘We are partners in this together, to get you to where you want to be,’” he says. “I tell patients I can get them results, but at the end of the day, we all have to do our parts in this.”

The takeaway

In conclusion, body contouring is not just about liposuction and butt lifts. There are many ways to skin a cat. A comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of excess fat through counseling, nutrition coaching, fitness training, medication, and surgery is necessary to achieve optimal results and long-lasting happiness.

Patients can achieve a more natural and sustainable result by choosing the right specialist and taking the time to understand the process.

There’s never been a better time to get serious about your health and lifestyle. Please schedule a consultation with our team at Formation to discuss the best way to reveal the real you.

Conclusion

Achieving optimal body contouring results extends far beyond the operating room, it requires understanding the three distinct fat layers (visceral, deep subcutaneous, and superficial) and how each contributes to your body’s shape and overall health. Dr. Gopal Grandhige’s comprehensive multimodal approach demonstrates that sustainable body transformation happens when surgical precision meets lifestyle modification through GLP-1 medications, nutrition coaching, fitness training, and mindset work. Surgery alone cannot address visceral fat stored around internal organs or prevent remaining fat cells from enlarging, which is why the most successful patients embrace body contouring as one component of a holistic health journey rather than a standalone quick fix.

The key to avoiding the common pitfall of temporary results lies in selecting a body contouring specialist who understands anatomy from the inside out, someone who can assess not just pinchable fat but also the deeper layers that contribute to your body’s contours and who partners with you to address underlying causes of excess fat. When you commit to the multimodal approach of losing weight through nutrition, building muscle through targeted fitness, and enhancing definition through surgical sculpting, you create durable outcomes that reflect genuine health transformation. Body contouring isn’t about shortcuts or mimicking someone else’s before-and-after photos; it’s about empowering yourself with the tools, knowledge, and comprehensive support system needed to reveal and maintain the best version of yourself for years to come.

FAQs

What are the three types of fat that affect body contouring results?

The three types are visceral fat (stored around internal organs causing abdominal protrusion), deep subcutaneous fat (pinchable fat between skin and muscle), and superficial fat (just beneath skin affecting body contours). Understanding which type contributes to your body shape is essential for selecting the right treatment approach and setting realistic expectations.

Why can't liposuction alone achieve optimal body contouring results?

Liposuction only addresses subcutaneous fat layers but cannot remove visceral fat behind muscles or prevent remaining fat cells from enlarging without lifestyle changes. A comprehensive approach combining surgery with nutrition, fitness, and medication produces more natural, sustainable results than surgery-only methods.

What is a multimodal approach to body contouring?

A multimodal approach combines GLP-1 medications, nutrition coaching, fitness training, mindset work, and surgical procedures to address all fat layers and underlying causes of excess fat. This comprehensive strategy treats body contouring as part of overall health improvement rather than an isolated cosmetic fix.

How do I choose the right body contouring specialist?

Look for a board-certified surgeon with expertise in both general and bariatric surgery who understands internal organs, musculature, fat layers, and skin, not just cosmetic techniques. The best specialists take a comprehensive approach, acting as partners who address your fitness, nutrition, and surgical needs together.

What role do GLP-1 medications play in body contouring?

GLP-1 medications help patients lose weight before surgery and maintain results afterward by addressing hormonal and metabolic factors that contribute to fat storage. When combined with nutrition, fitness, and surgical sculpting, these medications support the multimodal approach needed for sustainable body transformation.

formationtampa

388 24,142

Everyone’s anatomy and aesthetic goals are unique—which is why a personalized assessment is key.

Ready to see if Renuvion is the right fit for your transformation?

DM us or give us a call at (813) 922-2920 to schedule your consultation.

#renuvion #jplasma #skintightening #skingoals

9 0

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18077575898379906

Everyone’s anatomy and aesthetic goals are unique—which is why a personalized assessment is key.Ready to see if Renuvion is the right fit for your transformation?DM us or give us a call at (813) 922-2920 to schedule your consultation.#renuvion #jplasma #skintightening #skingoals

...

9 0

Tampa, we have a secret… and ELLE Magazine just confirmed it. 😉✨

Say hello to Picofy by InMode—officially named the Best Glass Skin Laser by ELLE! And the best part? We are the ONLY clinic in Tampa that has it.

If you’ve been dreaming of that effortless, glowing glass skin with zero downtime, this is your sign.

Why we’re obsessed with Picofy:
🌟 Painless treatments (yes, really!)
🌟 Safe & effective for ALL skin tones
🌟 Ultimate skin rejuvenation, pigment reduction, and glow

Ready to upgrade your skincare routine?

Drop a 🪞 in the comments or head to the link in our bio to book your consultation!

You can also stop by for our open house this Thursday, July 30 to check it out in person!!✨🥂

24 0

Open post by formationtampa with ID 17926134942379532

Tampa, we have a secret… and ELLE Magazine just confirmed it. 😉✨Say hello to Picofy by InMode—officially named the Best Glass Skin Laser by ELLE! And the best part? We are the ONLY clinic in Tampa that has it.If you’ve been dreaming of that effortless, glowing glass skin with zero downtime, this is your sign.Why we’re obsessed with Picofy:🌟 Painless treatments (yes, really!)🌟 Safe & effective for ALL skin tones🌟 Ultimate skin rejuvenation, pigment reduction, and glowReady to upgrade your skincare routine? Drop a 🪞 in the comments or head to the link in our bio to book your consultation! You can also stop by for our open house this Thursday, July 30 to check it out in person!!✨🥂

24 0

“I just want to look like me, but fitter.” — Mission accomplished. 🙌

Here is an incredible 3-month update for our patient following a circumferential body lift with liposculpting.

By addressing excess skin 360 degrees around the beltline while strategically sculpting the chest, shoulders, and abdomen, we achieved a smooth, athletic frame without sacrificing a natural appearance. He looks leaner, stronger, and completely redefined.

Ready to start your journey? DM us or click the link in our bio to book your consultation.

#tampa #360lift #plasticsurgeryclinic

7 0

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18138087409576441

“I just want to look like me, but fitter.” — Mission accomplished. 🙌Here is an incredible 3-month update for our patient following a circumferential body lift with liposculpting.By addressing excess skin 360 degrees around the beltline while strategically sculpting the chest, shoulders, and abdomen, we achieved a smooth, athletic frame without sacrificing a natural appearance. He looks leaner, stronger, and completely redefined.Ready to start your journey? DM us or click the link in our bio to book your consultation.#tampa #360lift #plasticsurgeryclinic

7 0

RSVP (link in bio) and get a raffle entry.

‼️get another raffle ticket for every three friends you tag. Unlimited entries. You can essentially guarantee a prize !

We’re going ALL OUT for our July 30th Party, and our raffle lineup this year is unmatched. 🥳

Every ticket you get puts you in the running for some serious glow-ups and top-tier treatments!

Take a look at what you could win:
1️⃣ 3-Pack Picofy Laser Facials✨($3,375 value)
2️⃣ COMPLETE Tattoo Removal — Unlimited sessions until it’s gone! 🚫🎨 ($4,340 value)
3️⃣ 100 Units of Botox 💉 ($1,500 value)
4️⃣ Full Syringe of Filler ( @juvederm ) 💋 ($900 value)
5️⃣ $500 Gift Card toward Peptides 🧬
6️⃣ FULL Permanent Makeup Brow Set (Nano/Powder/Combo)👁️✨ ($1,000 value) @bladingbybrent
7️⃣ Epicutis Gift Bag packed with luxury skincare 🛍️

*Exclusive Event-Only Discounts just for showing up!* 💸

Which prize are you claiming? Drop the number in the comments below! 👇💬

📅 When: July 30th
📍 Where: Formation (1315 S Howard Ave, Tampa)
⏰ Time: 5:30pm

Tag your party bestie who needs to enter with you! 👯‍♀️👇
Edited · 2d

43 4

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18224879878323879

RSVP (link in bio) and get a raffle entry. ‼️get another raffle ticket for every three friends you tag. Unlimited entries. You can essentially guarantee a prize ! We’re going ALL OUT for our July 30th Party, and our raffle lineup this year is unmatched. 🥳Every ticket you get puts you in the running for some serious glow-ups and top-tier treatments!Take a look at what you could win:1️⃣ 3-Pack Picofy Laser Facials✨($3,375 value)2️⃣ COMPLETE Tattoo Removal — Unlimited sessions until it’s gone! 🚫🎨 ($4,340 value)3️⃣ 100 Units of Botox 💉 ($1,500 value)4️⃣ Full Syringe of Filler ( @juvederm ) 💋 ($900 value)5️⃣ $500 Gift Card toward Peptides 🧬6️⃣ FULL Permanent Makeup Brow Set (Nano/Powder/Combo)👁️✨ ($1,000 value) @bladingbybrent 7️⃣ Epicutis Gift Bag packed with luxury skincare 🛍️*Exclusive Event-Only Discounts just for showing up!* 💸Which prize are you claiming? Drop the number in the comments below! 👇💬📅 When: July 30th📍 Where: Formation (1315 S Howard Ave, Tampa)⏰ Time: 5:30pmTag your party bestie who needs to enter with you! 👯‍♀️👇Edited · 2d

43 4

1 Month Post-Op Transformation! 💥

Fixing previous surgical outcomes requires precision, expertise, and a tailored approach.

Here’s how Dr. Grandhige transformed this patient’s core and chest:

The Challenge:
Previous tummy tuck left uneven abdominal fat distribution
High scar placement creating a visible “shelf” effect

The Solution:
HD Liposculpture to refine and sculpt a athletic, masculine core and chest
Scar Revision to eliminate the shelf-like appearance and create a smoother profile

Keep in mind, at just 1 month post-op, swelling is still settling and we are nowhere near final results! Can’t wait to see this shape mature over the next few months. 🔥

💬 Questions about revision procedures? Drop them in the comments or send us a DM!

7 1

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18007528352956745

1 Month Post-Op Transformation! 💥Fixing previous surgical outcomes requires precision, expertise, and a tailored approach. Here’s how Dr. Grandhige transformed this patient’s core and chest:The Challenge:Previous tummy tuck left uneven abdominal fat distributionHigh scar placement creating a visible “shelf” effectThe Solution:HD Liposculpture to refine and sculpt a athletic, masculine core and chestScar Revision to eliminate the shelf-like appearance and create a smoother profileKeep in mind, at just 1 month post-op, swelling is still settling and we are nowhere near final results! Can’t wait to see this shape mature over the next few months. 🔥💬 Questions about revision procedures? Drop them in the comments or send us a DM!

7 1

Trust the process. 🤍

This beautiful tummy tuck transformation is only 1 month post-op!

What makes this journey even more special is where it began. Two years ago, this patient came to us wanting change but wasn’t quite ready for the operating table. Instead of rushing, we partnered with her for the long haul. Through the strategic use of GLP-1 therapy, dedicated nutrition guidance, and mindset coaching, she completely transformed her health to get to where she is today.

While she is already looking incredible, it’s important to remember that residual swelling and inflammation are completely normal at this stage. Healing takes time, but the foundation for an amazing result is officially set!
We are so incredibly honored to be a part of every patient`s unique journey, and we are committed to being with you every single step of the way.

Drop a ❤️ to wish her a continued smooth recovery!

#TummyTuckJourney #PlasticSurgeryResults #BodyTransformation

13 1

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18102296162132133

Trust the process. 🤍This beautiful tummy tuck transformation is only 1 month post-op!What makes this journey even more special is where it began. Two years ago, this patient came to us wanting change but wasn’t quite ready for the operating table. Instead of rushing, we partnered with her for the long haul. Through the strategic use of GLP-1 therapy, dedicated nutrition guidance, and mindset coaching, she completely transformed her health to get to where she is today.While she is already looking incredible, it’s important to remember that residual swelling and inflammation are completely normal at this stage. Healing takes time, but the foundation for an amazing result is officially set!We are so incredibly honored to be a part of every patient's unique journey, and we are committed to being with you every single step of the way.Drop a ❤️ to wish her a continued smooth recovery!#TummyTuckJourney #PlasticSurgeryResults #BodyTransformation

13 1

Thinking about breaking up with your ink? 💔

Here is exactly why Formation should be your go-to for tattoo removal:

1️⃣ We use PICOFY: Our advanced picosecond laser treats all ink colors. No stubborn blues or greens left behind. 🎨
2️⃣ Fewer Sessions: Your time is valuable. Our laser targets ink more efficiently, meaning you get results in fewer visits than traditional lasers. ⏱️
3️⃣ Practically Painless: No, seriously. We can inject lidocaine under the skin to completely numb the area. Say goodbye to the “rubber band snap” feeling! 💉✨
4️⃣ Safe for ALL Skin Types: Our laser is highly precise and safe for every beautiful skin tone, minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation. 🤎🖤🏼

Bonus reasons to choose Formation:

✨ Certified Laser Experts: We don’t do “one-size-fits-all.” Your treatment plan is completely customized to your skin, ink depth, and goals.

✨ Fading vs. Full Removal: Whether you want a clean slate or just want to fade a piece enough for a flawless cover-up, we’ve got you covered.

Stop living with a tattoo you’ve outgrown. Tap the link in our bio to book your free consultation today! 📲

#TattooRemoval #PicoLaser #PainlessTattooRemoval #InkRegret #FormationTattooRemoval

13 0

Open post by formationtampa with ID 17881856466457923

Thinking about breaking up with your ink? 💔 Here is exactly why Formation should be your go-to for tattoo removal:1️⃣ We use PICOFY: Our advanced picosecond laser treats all ink colors. No stubborn blues or greens left behind. 🎨2️⃣ Fewer Sessions: Your time is valuable. Our laser targets ink more efficiently, meaning you get results in fewer visits than traditional lasers. ⏱️3️⃣ Practically Painless: No, seriously. We can inject lidocaine under the skin to completely numb the area. Say goodbye to the “rubber band snap” feeling! 💉✨4️⃣ Safe for ALL Skin Types: Our laser is highly precise and safe for every beautiful skin tone, minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation. 🤎🖤🏼Bonus reasons to choose Formation:✨ Certified Laser Experts: We don’t do “one-size-fits-all.” Your treatment plan is completely customized to your skin, ink depth, and goals.✨ Fading vs. Full Removal: Whether you want a clean slate or just want to fade a piece enough for a flawless cover-up, we’ve got you covered.Stop living with a tattoo you’ve outgrown. Tap the link in our bio to book your free consultation today! 📲#TattooRemoval #PicoLaser #PainlessTattooRemoval #InkRegret #FormationTattooRemoval

13 0

NOW is the time to start planning for next years summer body!

Schedule your consultation today to determine the next steps in your unique journey: https://formation.janeapp.com

#bodycontouring #Tampa #hdlipo

21 4

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18003542201954869

NOW is the time to start planning for next years summer body! Schedule your consultation today to determine the next steps in your unique journey: https://formation.janeapp.com#bodycontouring #Tampa #hdlipo

...

21 4

Face, neck, and chest—because your glow shouldn’t stop at your jawline. 😉👇
We are obsessed with the Picofy Laser for total skin rejuvenation.

Why we love Picofy:
✨ Full Coverage: Treats the delicate skin on your neck and chest just as effectively as your face.
✨ The Benefits: Boosts collagen production, shatters unwanted pigment, minimizes pores, and smooths skin texture.
✨ Minimal Downtime: Get that radiant glow without the lengthy recovery.
✨ Safe for ALL Skin Tones: Unlike older laser technologies, Picofy’s ultra-fast pulses deliver incredible results safely and effectively across the entire Fitzpatrick scale.

Ready to level up your skin game? 🤍 Click the link in our bio to book your consultation!

#Picofy #PicofyLaser #SkinRejuvenation #LaserSkinToning #AllSkinTypes

25 2

Open post by formationtampa with ID 18193923370329918

Face, neck, and chest—because your glow shouldn’t stop at your jawline. 😉👇We are obsessed with the Picofy Laser for total skin rejuvenation.Why we love Picofy:✨ Full Coverage: Treats the delicate skin on your neck and chest just as effectively as your face.✨ The Benefits: Boosts collagen production, shatters unwanted pigment, minimizes pores, and smooths skin texture.✨ Minimal Downtime: Get that radiant glow without the lengthy recovery.✨ Safe for ALL Skin Tones: Unlike older laser technologies, Picofy’s ultra-fast pulses deliver incredible results safely and effectively across the entire Fitzpatrick scale.Ready to level up your skin game? 🤍 Click the link in our bio to book your consultation!#Picofy #PicofyLaser #SkinRejuvenation #LaserSkinToning #AllSkinTypes

25 2

We previously posted this beautiful patient’s immediate before and after following her PDO Lifting Thread treatment.

Take a look at her fantastic results now that the 10 threads we placed are settled.

Send us a DM or click the link in our bio to schedule a consultation to discuss what treatments are the right fit for you!

#Tampa #Beauty #LiftingThreads #beforeandafter

19 0

Open post by formationtampa with ID 17891698041549409