What Are Saddlebags?
Saddlebags is the term used for accumulations of fat that occur on the outer thighs, just below the buttocks. This can give the body a pear-shaped appearance rather than a more balanced hourglass silhouette. Saddlebags are more common in women than men, though anyone can be affected regardless of their overall weight or body type.
What Causes Saddlebag Fat?
As with all instances of localized fat, a number of factors can influence whether you will develop saddlebag fat, including genetics, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
Genetics
Saddlebag fat is often hereditary. If other members of your family have developed saddlebag fat over time, you may be more predisposed to developing it as well. Importantly, this type of fat can occur regardless of overall body weight, meaning you do not have to be overweight to be affected.
Puberty
During puberty, as the body develops and fat distribution shifts, it is common for saddlebags to develop, particularly in women, who naturally accumulate more fat around the hips, thighs, buttocks, and breasts during this stage of development.
Hormones
Changes in estrogen levels can lead to an increase in fat around the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and hips, including the outer thigh area where saddlebags typically form.
Pregnancy
Weight gain during pregnancy is common and can occur across all areas of the body, including the hips and upper thighs.
Non-Surgical Saddlebag Fat Treatments
At SpaMedica, we offer effective non-surgical options for reducing saddlebag fat and contouring the outer thighs.
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is our primary non-surgical treatment for targeting saddlebag fat. The procedure uses clinically proven cryolipolysis technology to freeze and permanently destroy fat cells in the outer thigh area without surgery, needles, or downtime. An applicator is placed on the treatment area, gently drawing the fat tissue into a controlled cooling chamber where the temperature is lowered to a level that triggers permanent fat cell elimination while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected. Clinical studies show that between 22 and 30 percent of treated fat cells are permanently eliminated per session. The body then naturally clears these cells over the weeks following treatment, with results becoming visible progressively over two to four months. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss treatment but is specifically designed to reduce stubborn, localized fat that persists despite a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Venus Freeze
Venus Freeze is designed to tighten skin, reduce cellulite, shrink fat and improve overall shape and contouring. No topical or local anesthesia is involved in the procedure, which involves an external radiofrequency applicator being applied to the area of concern. An electrical current from the applicator heats up the skin and soft tissue, stimulating collagen and reducing the fat cells in that region.
Reducing Saddlebag Fat Through Exercises
Some lifestyle changes can also help you eliminate saddlebag fat. While targeted fat loss is not possible, increasing your cardiovascular exercise can help you lose weight overall, including from your upper thighs. Incorporate at least 30 minutes of cardio into your daily routine, such as running, cycling, brisk walking, or playing a sport. In addition, strength training exercises – specifically those that target the legs and lower body, like lunges and squats – can help you improve your cardio abilities, reduce the risk of injury, and improve muscle tone and overall shape.
Dieting for Losing Saddlebag Fat
Mindful diet is another important factor in managing overall body fat, including around the outer thighs. Focusing on whole, unprocessed foods with lean proteins such as chicken and fish, incorporating high-fibre foods, and reducing your intake of simple carbohydrates and high-sugar foods can support gradual and sustainable fat loss. Choosing water, coffee, or tea over sugary fruit juices and alcohol is also beneficial for maintaining a healthy body composition over time.
Can Saddlebag Fat Come Back After Treatment?
CoolSculpting permanently destroys the fat cells it treats, meaning those specific cells cannot return. However, if a patient gains significant weight after treatment, remaining fat cells in the area can still enlarge. Maintaining a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is the most effective way to preserve and extend the results of any fat reduction treatment. Our team will discuss realistic expectations and long-term maintenance strategies with you at your consultation.
How Much Does It Cost to Remove Saddlebag Fat?
The cost of saddlebag fat treatment at SpaMedica depends on the treatment selected and the size of the area being treated. Contact us for current pricing information.
Saddlebags Solutions at SpaMedica
CoolSculpting
Specifically designed to reduce stubborn, localized fat that persists despite a healthy diet and regular exercise.
