Skip to content When most people hear the word fat, they immediately connect it with weight gain, poor health, or an unhealthy lifestyle. But in reality, fat is one of the most important components of the human body. Without fat, we simply cannot survive. It plays an important role in protecting our organs, storing energy, maintaining body temperature, and supporting hormone production.
The problem is not fat itself, but the type and amount of fat present in the body. Some types of fat help improve metabolism and overall health, while others quietly increase the risk of serious diseases.
Knowing the different types of body fat is essential for making smarter fitness and lifestyle choices.
Body fat, also called adipose tissue, is a specialised type of connective tissue that stores energy in the form of fat molecules. When you intake more calories than your body requires, the surplus energy gets transformed into fat and is saved for later use. During times of low food intake or high energy demand, this stored fat serves as the body’s backup fuel system.
However, body fat also plays several critical roles in maintaining overall health. It cushions and protects vital organs, regulates body temperature, supports the immune system, and helps in the production of important hormones. Body fat also enables the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K, which are essential for many bodily functions.
Body fat exists in different forms, and each type plays a unique role in the body. Some fats support vital functions, while others can harm health if they build up too much.
White fat is the type of body fat that most people are familiar with, as it makes up the largest portion of fat in the human body. These fat cells are large in size and mainly function as energy storage units. When you intake more calories than your body requires, the surplus energy gets stored as white fat for later use.
White fat is found just beneath the skin and also around internal organs. Common storage areas include the belly, thighs, hips, buttocks, and arms. Apart from storing energy, white fat also plays an important role in hormonal activity. It influences several key hormones such as oestrogen, leptin, insulin, cortisol, and growth hormone, all of which directly affect metabolism, appetite, stress levels, and overall body balance.
In healthy amounts, white fat is necessary for normal body function. However, excessive white fat is strongly linked to serious health problems. High amounts of white fat promote the development of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, cerebrovascular accidents, hormonal imbalances, reproductive challenges, liver complications, kidney issues, and even specific cancer types. Keeping an appropriate body fat percentage is crucial for sustaining long-term health and preventing diseases.
Brown fat is a special type of fat that is mainly involved in heat production rather than energy storage. It is most abundant in newborn babies, as they rely on it to maintain body temperature. Adults also have minimal quantities of brown fat, typically in areas such as the neck, upper back, and shoulders.
Unlike white fat, brown fat contains a high concentration of mitochondria, which allows it to burn fatty acids and generate heat through a process known as thermogenesis. This process helps regulate body temperature and increases overall calorie expenditure.
Brown fat is considered highly beneficial because it actively burns calories instead of storing them. Scientists are particularly interested in brown fat because increasing its activity could help improve metabolism and reduce obesity risk. Cold exposure, regular exercise, and certain lifestyle factors are known to stimulate brown fat activity naturally.
Beige fat, sometimes called brite fat, is a relatively new discovery in metabolic research. It is a flexible type of fat that exists between white and brown fat in terms of function. Under normal conditions, beige fat behaves like white fat and stores energy. However, under specific triggers, it can transform and start functioning like brown fat.
Factors such as cold exposure, physical activity, and hormonal changes can activate beige fat cells. When activated, these cells begin burning calories and producing heat, similar to brown fat.
This ability to switch roles makes beige fat extremely valuable from a health perspective. Researchers believe that increasing beige fat activity could become an effective strategy for managing obesity, improving insulin sensitivity, and supporting long-term metabolic health.
Essential fat refers to the minimum amount of fat required for basic survival and normal physiological functioning. This type of fat is not related to appearance or weight gain, but to life-supporting processes.
Essential fat is found in critical areas such as the brain, bone marrow, nerves, and the protective membranes surrounding vital organs. It plays a central role in hormone production, nervous system function, temperature regulation, and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
Without adequate essential fat, the body cannot function properly. Extremely low fat levels can lead to hormonal imbalance, weakened immunity, fertility issues, and organ dysfunction. Women naturally require higher essential fatty acid levels than men due to reproductive needs and hormonal functions.
Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat that lies just under your skin. It is the most visible and measurable type of fat in the body and includes a mixture of white, beige, and brown fat cells.
This is the excess fat that can be grasped on your arms, thighs, abdomen, hips, and back. Subcutaneous fat acts as insulation, helps regulate body temperature, and provides a cushioning effect to protect the body from external impact.
In moderate amounts, subcutaneous fat is not particularly harmful and may even have protective benefits. However, excessive accumulation can lead to hormonal imbalance, increased inflammation, reduced insulin sensitivity, and joint stress. Fitness professionals often use skinfold measurements to estimate subcutaneous fat levels as part of overall body composition analysis. For those concerned about these effects, learning How To Lose Subcutaneous Fat can support healthier body composition and long-term wellbeing.
Visceral fat is one of the most harmful types of body fat. It sits deep in the belly and surrounds important organs like the liver, pancreas, kidneys, intestines, and heart.
Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat cannot be seen or touched. It is metabolically active and releases inflammatory substances directly into the bloodstream, which disrupts normal organ function and increases disease risk.
High amounts of visceral fat are deeply linked with type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, hormonal disorders, and certain cancers. A large waist circumference is often a key indicator of excess visceral fat.
Reducing visceral fat through proper diet, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management is one of the most important steps for improving overall health and longevity.
You cannot reduce fat from one specific area, but you can improve how your body stores and burns fat through healthy lifestyle habits. The focus should be on reducing harmful fat, like visceral fat, while boosting overall metabolism.
Strength training develops lean muscle, which boosts resting metabolism and aids the body in burning more calories during the day. It also helps decrease fat accumulation around essential organs.
Cardio activities burn calories and are especially effective in reducing dangerous visceral fat. Regular cardio improves heart health and overall fat loss.
Poor sleep disrupts hunger and fat-regulating hormones, leading to increased fat storage. Getting enough quality sleep supports better metabolism and appetite control.
High stress increases cortisol levels, which promotes fat accumulation in the abdominal area. Managing stress helps prevent hormonal fat storage.
A fibre, protein, and healthy fats-rich diet helps in fat loss and helps maintain muscle. Reducing sugar and processed foods prevents excess fat gain.
Exposure to cold stimulates brown adipose tissue, leading to calorie combustion for heat generation. This can slightly boost metabolism and support fat loss efforts.
Body fat plays an essential role in the human body, but its impact depends on the type and amount. While some fat supports vital functions and metabolism, excess harmful fat can quietly damage long-term health. Understanding these differences allows you to take control of your fitness journey. With consistent healthy habits, balanced nutrition, and an active lifestyle, you can manage body fat effectively and build a stronger, healthier body.
Regular physical activity is the most effective way to reduce visceral fat. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days and pair it with a healthy diet to lower disease risk.
Trans fat is the worst fat to consume. It raises bad cholesterol, lowers good cholesterol, and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Foods rich in monounsaturated fats, like olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish, can help reduce belly fat. Yoghurt is also beneficial.
Sleeping on your side, especially the left side, improves digestion, aids weight management, and reduces fat buildup.
Sleeping on your stomach can strain your spine, restrict breathing, and cause neck and back pain, making it the least healthy position.
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Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We're still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
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Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
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Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Clinic Director
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Patient Representative
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Sales Administrator
Aesthetic Doctor
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Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
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