Abdominal Etching

Abdominal etching is a technique that enhances the appearance of the abdominal musculature by removing excess fat and skin (Credit: Made Underground)

Most men would want a flat stomach or even 6-pack-abs. If exercise and correct diet is not able to get you a desirable tummy, then you may want to know about abdominal etching.

Abdominal etching is a technique that enhances the appearance of the abdominal musculature by removing excess fat and skin. It is a step beyond conventional liposuction. Abdominal etching gives you a flatter, tighter stomach area, with stronger muscle definition.

The best candidates for abdominal etching are athletic people who have underlying muscles that can be accentuated with abdominal etching. They also follow a proper diet and exercise program to maintain the benefits of this cosmetic surgery. Patients who are planning to go in for liposuction or abdinoplasty may also opt for abdominal etching to achieve a more athletic-looking appearance.

This surgery is carried out in an hour under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes several small incisions (1-2 millimeters in length) in the bellybutton or in the natural creases of the abdomen and uses a cannula to remove excess fat and skin. Then he sculpts grooves in the fat layers to emphasize a muscular appearance.

Most patients return home within hours after surgery. There will be some swelling, pain and bruising after the surgery. The doctor will fit the patient with a medical compression garment to wear at all times other than bathing for three to six weeks. It’s advisable to avoid exercising or lifting heavy weights for some time after the surgery. Normal activities can be resumed in one to three weeks. The full results of abdominal etching appear within six months of the procedure.

The risks of this cosmetic surgery include infection, bleeding and excessive scarring. The average cost for abdominal etching is anywhere between $3,000 to 10,000. The estimate includes the cost of the liposuction.