What Causes Inner Thigh Fat?

Inner thigh fat, like fat in other parts of the body, is primarily the result of a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. Here are some of the key contributors:

1. Genetics: Genetics play a significant role in determining where your body stores fat. Some individuals are genetically predisposed to store fat in certain areas, such as the thighs, hips, and buttocks. This is often more pronounced in women, as they tend to have a higher percentage of body fat than men and store fat in these areas due to evolutionary and reproductive reasons.
2. Hormones: Hormonal imbalances can also influence fat distribution. For example, oestrogen, the primary female sex hormone, promotes fat storage in the lower body, including the thighs. As women age, especially during menopause, hormonal changes can lead to a redistribution of fat, often resulting in increased fat accumulation in the thighs.
3. Lifestyle Factors: Diet and physical activity levels are crucial in determining overall body fat. A diet high in calories, particularly from processed foods and sugars, combined with a sedentary lifestyle, can lead to an excess of calories that are stored as fat, including in the thighs.
4. Metabolism: Metabolic rate plays a role in how quickly your body burns calories. A slower metabolism can result in more fat being stored, including in the inner thighs. Ageing, certain medical conditions, and a lack of muscle mass can contribute to a slower metabolism.

Is Inner Thigh Fat Hard to Lose?

Yes, inner thigh fat can be particularly challenging to lose for several reasons:

1. Stubborn Fat Areas: The thighs are considered a “stubborn fat” area, meaning the fat cells in this region have more alpha-2 receptors, which inhibit fat breakdown, compared to beta-2 receptors, which promote fat breakdown. This makes it harder for the body to access and burn fat in the inner thighs.
2. Spot Reduction Myth: It’s a common misconception that you can target fat loss in specific areas of the body through exercises focused on that area, such as inner thigh exercises. Fat loss occurs throughout the body as a whole and cannot be isolated to a specific area through exercise alone.
3. Hormonal Influences: As mentioned earlier, hormones like oestrogen promote fat storage in the thighs. Women, in particular, may find it difficult to lose fat from this area due to the influence of these hormones.
4. Genetic Factors: If your genetics predispose you to store fat in your thighs, it may take longer to see results in this area compared to others. However, with consistent effort, fat loss is achievable.

How to Lose Inner Thigh Fat

While it’s difficult to target fat loss in the inner thighs specifically, a combination of overall body fat reduction and muscle strengthening can help reduce the appearance of fat in this area.

Dietary Changes:

• Caloric Deficit: The most important factor in losing fat is creating a caloric deficit, where you burn more calories than you consume. This can be achieved by reducing your daily caloric intake and increasing your physical activity.
• Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, including lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-calorie snacks.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps with overall metabolism and can prevent water retention, which can contribute to the appearance of thicker thighs.

Exercise:

• Cardiovascular Exercise: Engaging in regular cardiovascular exercise, such as running, cycling, or swimming, helps burn calories and reduce overall body fat. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity cardio per week.
• Strength Training: Incorporating strength training into your routine can help build muscle, which in turn boosts your metabolism. Focus on exercises that target the lower body, including squats, lunges, and leg presses. Strengthening the muscles in the thighs can help improve their tone and appearance.
• Specific Exercises for Thighs:
  • Inner Thigh Squeeze: Lying on your back with your knees bent, place a small ball or cushion between your knees. Squeeze your knees together, hold for a few seconds, and release. Repeat for several sets.
  • Side Lunges: Step to the side with one leg, bending the knee and lowering your body while keeping the other leg straight. Push back up to the starting position and repeat on the other side.
  • Sumo Squats: Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing outwards. Lower your body into a squat position while keeping your back straight and then rise back up.

Consistency and Patience: Fat loss takes time, and it’s important to stay consistent with your diet and exercise routine. Tracking your progress through measurements or photos can help keep you motivated.

Non-Surgical Options to Reduce Inner Thigh Fat

Several non-surgical options can help reduce inner thigh fat. These treatments can complement your diet and exercise efforts but are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

Cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting):

• CoolSculpting is a popular non-invasive procedure that freezes fat cells, causing them to die and be naturally eliminated by the body. It is effective for reducing small pockets of fat, including those in the inner thighs. Results typically take a few weeks to months to become visible.

Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy:

• RF therapy uses radiofrequency energy to heat the fat cells in the targeted area, causing them to break down. It also stimulates collagen production, which can help tighten the skin in the treated area. This treatment is non-invasive and usually requires multiple sessions. The main option for this is Emsculpt Neo which is available at CLNQ in Manchester.

Ultrasound Fat Reduction (Ultrashape):

• Ultrasound therapy uses focused ultrasound energy to break down fat cells, which are then removed by the body’s lymphatic system. It is another non-invasive option for reducing fat in areas like the inner thighs. This is not commonly used in the UK anymore.

Surgical Options for Inner Thigh Fat

For those seeking more dramatic results, surgical options are available to remove inner thigh fat. These procedures should be considered after careful consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.

Liposuction:

• Traditional Liposuction: Liposuction is the most common surgical procedure for removing fat from the inner thighs. During the procedure, small incisions are made, and a cannula (a thin tube) is inserted to suction out the fat. It provides immediate results and can significantly reduce the size of the inner thighs.
• Water-Assisted Liposuction (BodyJet): This technique combines traditional liposuction with water to avulse fat cells before removal, making it easier to extract the fat and promoting skin tightening.

Thigh Lift (Thighplasty):

• A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the thighs, resulting in a smoother, more toned appearance. It is often recommended for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose skin in the thigh area. The procedure can be combined with liposuction for enhanced results.

Vaser Liposuction:

• Vaser liposuction uses ultrasound technology to break down fat cells before they are removed from the body. This technique is known for being less invasive than traditional liposuction and can result in less bruising and quicker recovery times.

Post-Surgical Considerations

After surgical procedures, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions carefully. This often includes wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. Compression garments are usually worn for up to 6 weeks following surgery.

Conclusion

Inner thigh fat can be stubborn and challenging to lose due to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. While it may be difficult, it’s not impossible to reduce fat in this area. A combination of a healthy diet, regular cardiovascular and strength-training exercises, and consistency is key to achieving results. Non-surgical treatments like Emsculpt Neo can offer targeted fat reduction, while surgical options like liposuction and thigh lifts provide more dramatic results.

Ultimately, the best approach to reducing inner thigh fat involves a combination of healthy lifestyle choices, targeted exercises, and, if necessary, medical or surgical interventions tailored to your specific needs and goals. Book a consultation with Mr Nassab plastic surgeon who can help you determine the most appropriate course of action for your individual situation.