Fatty liver disease is increasingly common, and often confusing.
Many people are told they have a “fatty liver” after a blood test or ultrasound, but are unsure what it really means, how serious it is, or whether they need to see a liver specialist.
So when is fatty liver something your GP can manage, and when should you see a hepatologist?
What Is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. It broadly falls into two categories:
MASLD (Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) – commonly linked to weight, insulin resistance, cholesterol, and metabolic health Alcohol-related liver disease – related to alcohol intake
In early stages, fatty liver may cause no symptoms at all. However, in some people it can progress to:
Liver inflammation (steatohepatitis) Fibrosis (scarring) Cirrhosis Liver failure or liver cancer (in advanced cases)
This is why appropriate assessment matters.
Do All People With Fatty Liver Need a Specialist?
No — but some do.
Many people with mild fatty liver can be safely managed by their GP with lifestyle support, monitoring, and treatment of underlying risk factors.
However, a liver specialist (hepatologist) should be considered if:
Liver blood tests remain abnormal over time Imaging shows fibrosis, inflammation, or uncertainty You have multiple metabolic risk factors (diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol) There is concern about progression or complications You want a clearer risk assessment and long-term plan
A hepatologist can provide advanced risk stratification, exclude other liver conditions, and guide more targeted management.
How a Hepatologist Can Help
Seeing a liver specialist allows for:
Detailed interpretation of liver blood tests and imaging Assessment of fibrosis risk and disease progression Exclusion of other liver diseases (viral, autoimmune, genetic) Clear advice on monitoring, lifestyle, and medical management Coordination of care back to your GP
For many patients, even a single specialist review can bring clarity and reassurance.
Specialist Liver Care at Rosedale Medical Practice
Dr Judy Chiou is a Hepatologist and Gastroenterologist now consulting at Rosedale Medical Practice in West Pennant Hills.
She supports patients with fatty liver disease and a wide range of liver and gastrointestinal conditions, working closely with referring GPs to ensure coordinated, ongoing care.
📌 Referral required — speak with your Rosedale GP to organise a review.
📅 Appointments are limited and available on selected consulting days.
👉 Learn more or request an appointment:
Other Conditions Dr Judy Chiou Can Help With
In addition to fatty liver disease, Dr Chiou also manages:
Abnormal liver function tests Hepatitis (viral, autoimmune, drug-related) Cirrhosis and liver fibrosis Iron overload and metabolic liver disease Reflux, indigestion, and upper GI symptoms Bowel habit changes and gastrointestinal concerns
If you’re looking to transition specialist care closer to home, Dr Chiou welcomes new referrals and ongoing care at Rosedale.