What is subcutaneous tissue?

Daniel Kapp on behalf of MDLIVE

Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Subcutaneous tissue is the layer of tissue that is directly beneath the skin. It may vary from very minimal, such as in areas of the eyelids, or as a thick layer as in the fat padding around the abdomen and waist. It is the subcutaneous tissue, or fat plane around the waist and abdomen, that is treated with surgical procedures such as abdominoplasty and liposuction. Most fillers are injected into the subcutaneous tissue and not directly within the dermis.

Stuart A. Linder, MD

Plastic Surgery

The subcutaneous tissue layer can be found directly beneath the skin. The thickness will vary depending on the area of the face or body. During my liposuction procedure, the fatty tissue (comprising) the 2 layers of subcutaneous tissue are suctioned. There is a superficial layer of fat in the abdomen (campers fascia) and a deeper layer called (scarpas fascia). The subcutaneous tissue layer is found above the deeper muscle of the abdomen, chest, and extremities.

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

This is the layer between the outer skin and the inner muscle tissue. It consists of fat cells and does have blood vessels and nerves passing through it. It helps insulate the body from cold and provides cushion for the deep tissues from blunt trauma. It can also serve as a reserve source of fuel for the body.

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

The subcutaneous tissue is the innermost layer of skin. It is primarily made up of fat that helps insulate your body. The fat also acts a bit like a shock absorber to cushion precious inside organs from the outside world. This is the layer that thins as we age.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

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Staying out of the sun and away from tanning beds is the easiest way to get great-looking skin. The suns UVB and UVA rays cause skin damage, which is prematurely aging, and skin cancer. Every day you should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks UVB and UVA rays, with an SPF of 15 or higher. Reapply at least every two hours while outdoors. For a dewy glow, use skin-care products with 10 ingredients or less to reduce irritation, use moisturizer and feed your skin from within. Dark chocolate and antioxidant-rich foods such as cantaloupe, citrus fruits, blueberries and leafy greens improve the skin’s appearance.

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