Abdominal Etching in Pittsburgh, PA

There are many cases when specific pockets of fat become resistant to exercise. Fortunately, for Pittsburgh area men who want an appearance of a 6-pack, the fat pads in this area can be sculpted to look like abdominal muscles by using a unique method of liposuction. Dr. Fernau is a liposuction surgeon and uses it not only for fat removal, but for ab sculpting as well. Ideal candidates for this procedure are men who are already toned and at a healthy weight, yet are still looking for definition. Dr. Fernau will extract small amounts of fat in specific areas along the upper and lower abdomen, and then reshape the region so that the appearance of chiseled abs results. An experienced plastic surgeon can help achieve a chiseled abdomen that normal exercises and diet cannot always create.

Abdominal etching surgery uses liposuction to remove some of the fat pockets in the abdominal region and reshapes the existing fat by moving it into specific areas, sculpting it to appear like firm tissue. In most cases, tumescent liposuction is the approach used. The surgeon will apply specific abdominal patterns depending on the present muscle tone of the patient. The patterns also consider the natural curves of the abdomen for a more realistic effect. Tiny incisions are made along the natural folds so scarring is not an issue with this procedure.

All abdominal etching surgeries are performed as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility. The liposuction approach requires either general anesthesia or IV sedation, and the entire procedure can last up to an hour. Results are not instantly seen after the procedure, because the abdomen is usually swollen and bruised. This will subside in a few weeks. A compression garment is warn in the days following surgery to help in the healing process, as well as to help keep the abdomen tight and firm. Most patients can go back to their routine within 1 to 2 weeks. Exercise must be restricted until advised from the doctor. Within just a few days after surgery, men will notice the rippling effect in their upper and lower stomach, which resembles a toned and muscular looking abdomen.

The average cost of an abdominal etching procedure is around $3,900 to $7,900.  According to www.realself.com the average cost is $8,075.   Because this procedure is cosmetic, insurance does not apply.

Abdominal etching is a procedure that specifically targets the abdominal muscles to define its contours giving the appearance of “washboard abs”. The reason why it is difficult to achieve the effect with just normal exercise is due to a resistant layer of fat that covers the muscles. To achieve the definition, liposuction targets specific fat pads to chisel out the lines and emphasize muscle tone.

The best candidates for this procedure are men who have minimal fat deposit around the abdomen area and have some toned muscle. Active individuals who have a hard time defining their abs are ideal for this procedure. We will measure the fat layer, which should not exceed about 2 inches when pinched. If there’s a thicker layer, an initial liposuction surgery may be recommended or intensive exercise until the required measurements are achieved.

Most abdominal etching procedures are performed using tumescent liposuction. The procedure is minimally invasive and only needs incisions 1 to 2 mm long. This allows for the cannula to be inserted while wounds are easily concealed. The liposuction will target a thin layer of fat and soft tissues, and the surgeon will manipulate the internal structures so that the desired sculpted appearance is attained.

This is a minimally invasive procedure so the incisions are small. The doctor will create a cut big enough to insert the cannula near the areola, belly button or along the natural crease of the abdomen. With proper care, the incisions wil fade and gradually become unnoticeable over time.