Can anyone provide some insight into how difficult it may be to lose belly fat?

I know that doing ab exercises is important. However, my abs are covered by a significant amount of fat. It is my understanding that belly fat is often the most difficult type of fat to eliminate. This is why so many athletic people have liposuction, since this fat is very stubborn.

Those of you who have lost a lot of weight, can you comment?

I am apple-shaped and this is a big concern of mine. I know that abdominal fat is the most dangerous kind (see Protein Power and SB Diet), but in the past I tend to lose in my hips. As a result my waist-hip ratio does not improve.

Thanks.