Do I need to put anything on my stomach after an etching for the ab etching to show?

Question

I got a liposuction with an eching the doctor gave me a compression board and these silicone round strips that look like pens to put over my stomach to make the ab eching pop out .. Do I have to put anything on my stomach for the ab eching to show?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi plazasdollll1 in Colombia, CO, Thank you for your question regarding whether you need to put anything on my stomach after an etching for the ab etching to show? The answer is it depends on your ab etching plastic surgeon.  Some ab etching plastic surgeons use boards, tubing, custom foam, vests, and garments; other HI-Def plastic surgeons do not use anything. In general, most ab etching plastic surgeons believe there should some compression of the areas that were suctioned; therefore, use foam on the linea alba, semi-lunaris lines, and horizontal transcriptions.  For the area below the umbilicus (belly button) and above the pubic region, consider an abdominal board. Do not place the ab board on the rectus muscles; the ab board will blunt the definition.  Most experienced ab etching plastic surgeons also use a foam vest and medical grade compression garment.  However, every plastic surgeon is different.  What matters most is the quality of your ab etching results, not the items placed on the abs post-op.  When in doubt, always check with your chosen plastic surgeon first.  Good luck.  I hope that I have answered your question regarding whether you need to put anything on my stomach after an etching for the ab etching to show?
VASER hi def abdominal sculpting or etching is a technically difficult procedure.  Your plastic surgeon must know his abdominal wall anatomy. When seeking revision VASER hi def abdominal etching, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing the VASER hi def procedure.  Not all plastic surgeons own a VASER machine and most plastic surgeons do not perform the VASER hi def procedure. Do your research.  Make sure your selected plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 VASER hi def abdominal etching surgeries and have the before-and-after  pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before-and-after  pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   If you cannot find an experienced, VASER hi def plastic  surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling, if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen, MD, MBA, FACS, FICS ( Plastic Surgeon, President of  the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

After undergoing abdominal etching, it's essential to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions carefully. While the procedure itself involves the removal of excess fat to enhance the visibility of underlying abdominal muscles, certain measures can optimize your recovery and contribute to the best aesthetic outcome. Here are some general guidelines:

Compression Garments:

Purpose: Wearing a compression garment is a common recommendation after abdominal etching.
Benefits: Compression garments help minimize swelling, provide support to the treated areas, and contribute to the shaping of the tissues.
Duration: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding how long you should wear the compression garment. Compliance with this recommendation is crucial for optimal results.
Post-Operative Care Products:

Topical Treatments: Your surgeon may recommend certain topical treatments or ointments to promote healing and minimize scarring. Follow their advice regarding the application of any post-operative care products.
Avoid Harsh Substances: Avoid using harsh or abrasive substances on the treated area without your surgeon's approval.
Activity Restrictions:

Avoid Strenuous Activity: In the initial days and weeks following abdominal etching, it's typically advised to avoid strenuous physical activity or exercises that engage the abdominal muscles. This allows the treated area to heal without excessive stress.
Hygiene Practices:

Keep the Area Clean: Follow your surgeon's guidelines for keeping the treated area clean and dry. Good hygiene practices contribute to a smooth recovery.
Follow-Up Appointments:

Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. They will monitor your progress, address any concerns, and provide further guidance on post-operative care.
Remember, the visibility of abdominal etching results is influenced by factors such as swelling, healing, and the overall recovery process. Patience is essential, and it may take some time for the full results to become apparent.

Always consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon for specific post-operative care instructions tailored to your individual case. They will provide you with detailed guidance on caring for the treated area and optimizing your recovery for the best possible outcome.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello plazdollI would advice you visit or contact your plastic surgeon for all  post operative instuctions

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Sounds like he gave you what you need. Just use those compression devices, and be sure to ask your surgeon if you have any questions about appropriately applying them.All the best, Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Carlos Lopez Collado, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your question and provided information as well.. You need to wear your garment with foam compression for at least 3/6 months, and some surgeons have many ideas to make the lines look even better inside the compression garment. Good luck!

Surjit S. Rai, MD · Answer

Sounds like your doctor gave you everything you need. If you have specific concerns or questions about what you should be doing it is usually best to contact your surgeon again. For my patients I use similar post op compression/dressings.

Regards,

Surjit S. Rai, MD (DrRai.net)

Regards,

Surjit S. Rai, MD (DrRai.net)

Theodore Nyame, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Your surgeon should have specific instructions about dressings you should use. Many people will use an abdominal binder and foam padding placed in a way to enhance the etching. I would suggest you speak to your surgeon. Best WishesTheodore T. Nyame MD Harvard-Trained Plastic Surgeon

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thanks for the question.Yes, use the silicone strips provided by your doctor and apply as instructed.Best of luck.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

After getting abdominal etching, the only thing you need is the foam compression for 2 weeks. Besides that, nothing else is necessary.

Amit Gupta, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello
Every surgeon has his protocols, Generally the common pattern will be to wear a fitted pressure garment for a duration of 6-8 weeks. Some surgeons give silicone blocks, some give tapes, some give compression jackets inside garment. But most get the same results. So please follow your doctor. He is the best person for you

Dr Amit

Do I need to put anything on my stomach after an etching for the ab etching to show?

Answers (11)

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