Conditions
Stubborn Fat
At Define Clinic, we offer advanced, non-surgical solutions to help reduce stubborn fat and sculpt a more contoured, confident silhouette.
Many people work hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle but still struggle with stubborn fat that refuses to shift. This type of fat can affect confidence and body shape, often sitting in areas that don’t respond to diet or exercise. It is not a reflection of your effort or discipline, it is usually down to genetics, hormones and how your body stores fat.
What Is Stubborn Fat?
Stubborn fat refers to localised pockets of fat that remain despite a balanced diet and regular exercise. Unlike general body fat, stubborn fat tends to persist in specific areas and is often more resistant to natural fat loss processes. Common treatment areas include the abdomen, flanks, thighs, upper arms, under the chin and around the bra line.
These fat cells are biologically different from other fat cells, often having more receptors that encourage storage and fewer that encourage breakdown. This is why these pockets of fat can be so difficult to target with lifestyle changes alone, even in people who are otherwise very fit and healthy.
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Causes & Symptoms
There are several key factors that contribute to stubborn fat. Genetics play a significant role, determining where your body prefers to store fat. Hormonal changes, especially during times of stress, ageing or metabolic shifts, can also make fat more likely to settle in specific areas.
Other common causes and symptoms include:
- Fat deposits that don’t change with weight loss.
- Areas that feel soft, padded or uneven to the touch.
- Loss of body contour in areas prone to pockets of fat.
- Frustration despite consistent exercise and healthy eating.
- Fluid retention that can exaggerate stubborn fat in certain zones.
These symptoms are very common and completely normal, but they can be difficult to manage without professional support.
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATIONTreatments For Stubborn Fat At Define Clinic
At Define Clinic, we offer proven, non-surgical treatments designed to target stubborn fat in a safe and controlled way.
CoolSculpting®
One of the most popular treatments for fat reduction whereby controlled cooling is used to freeze and destroy fat cells, which are then naturally processed and removed by the body over time. This treatment is ideal for well-defined pockets of fat.
EMSCULPT NEO®
This treatment combines fat reduction with muscle toning, helping to strengthen and sculpt areas such as the abdomen, arms and thighs while also addressing stubborn fat.
Exilis
Another option using radiofrequency and ultrasound energy to tighten skin and help reduce fat in areas where skin laxity is also a concern.
For certain areas, particularly smaller pockets of fat, our team may recommend tailored combination treatment plans to achieve smoother, more sculpted results. Each plan is personalised following an in-depth consultation to ensure the best approach for your body and your goals.
FAQs
Can fat be removed without surgery?
Yes. Non-surgical treatments like CoolSculpting® are highly effective.
Is stubborn fat the same as being overweight?
No. Even slim or athletic people can have stubborn fat.
How long does it take to see results?
Results typically develop gradually over several weeks to months.
Is treatment painful?
Most treatments are well tolerated with minimal discomfort.
Can stubborn fat come back after treatment?
Treated fat cells are permanently removed, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important.
REVIEWS
Don’t just take our word for it
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I was looking for some non-invasive treatments to address a couple of skin concerns and maintain my skin in top condition. After doing extensive research to find the best practitioner, I came across Dr. Benji Dhillon, founder of the Define Clinic, who came highly recommended. From the start, I felt completely comfortable and confident in his treatment recommendations. I’m absolutely thrilled with the results—they look incredibly natural. I’m very happy with my experience and will definitely be returning in the future
Define Clinic – Botox Patient
9th September 2025
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The Define team make you feel welcome from the moment you enter the clinic. My Polynucleotide treatment was carried out with care by Dr.Arreni, she was thorough with her explanations and made me feel very relaxed during the procedures. I’m very happy with the outcome and would highly recommend Dr.Arreni if you are looking for natural, long-lasting results.
Leila
3rd September 2025
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It’s always special having a treatment at Define Clinic. Lovely staff whose care is always so through and thoughtful
Shirlie Kemp
19th August 2025
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I’ve been going to Dr. Benji Dhillon for all my Botox and facial treatments ever since I moved to London five years ago, and I honestly haven’t looked back. He was the first cosmetic doctor I ever saw, and I immediately felt comfortable in his hands. He just gets it — the results are always natural, never overdone, and I always leave feeling like the best version of myself
Chaya Raichik
19th August 2025
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Define is the best clinic in London. I would only trust Benji for my touch ups and Eden has completely transformed my skin with BBL. They are so incredibly friendly and I genuinely look forward to going to Define. I couldn’t recommend them more!
Amy Stewart
25th November 2024
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Sarah Russell
10th November 2024
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Beautiful clinic and amazing people! My special thank you to Dr Hena for her attention to detail and professionalism.
Olga Jarvis
16th October 2024
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If I had the choice of rating DefineClinic any higher, I definitely would!
All the staff there are lovely, respectful and always happy to help!
I had Dr Sunny & Faye to help and carry out my composite bonding journey.
From my first appointment they were so helpful, trying to gain an insight into what I want in order to achieve my dream smile.
I had my final appointment this week to polish and complete my smile, and I am over the moon with the results.
Couldn’t recommend DefineClinic enough!
Thank you all! :))Joe Gaskell
6th October 2024
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This was my first time ever getting any cosmetic procedure done, and I’m so glad I chose to have this experience done at define with Rosie. Going into my appointment, I was feeling a little apprehensive as to how my results were going to turn out. I just wanted something to help get rid of a few lines on my forehead without anyone noticing that I had anything done. Rosie took all of my points into consideration and she exceeded my expectations. Not only did she try to calm my nerves by bringing me water and making sure my experience was enjoyable, she also made sure that I was completely comfortable with everything she was doing and she made sure that I had all the knowledge I needed before I continued with the procedure.
One thing I will say about define, it’s a little on the pricier side however, it is worth every penny. You are paying for quality and good results!
If anyone is considering going to define (especially if this is your first cosmetic experience), I would highly recommend booking with the lovely Rosie!
Amelia Guida
23rd September 2024
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Simply the best 🚀
Simon Michael Carroll
14th September 2024
Book Your Consultation Today
If stubborn fat is affecting your confidence or preventing you from achieving your body goals, the team at Define Clinic is here to help. We offer expert-led consultations to assess areas of fat and recommend the most effective, non-surgical treatment plan for you. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards calmer, clearer skin with Define Clinic.