Etching or implants for a sharper six-pack look?

Question

I read about both procedure . I am more interested in getting implants as they look sharper to me ...! Is this a good idea ? Should I worry about the silicon impacts for my sixpacks?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, Bob Lee Swager in Vancouver.  Thank you for your question about abdominal etching or implants for a sharper six-pack look.  Thank you for your interesting question.  A more accurate answer can be provided if you can submit pictures.  First, a physical examination or consultation is in order.  If you work out and have a flat abdomen with not too much fat, you may be an excellent candidate for the abdominal wall or rectus abdominis silicone implants.  Unfortunately, there are not many plastic surgeons who insert abdominal wall implants.  Most experienced plastic surgeons performing this procedure get maximum results when there is minimal fat overlying the skin.  Therefore, you should barely have any fat to get the best results with the rectus abdominis implants.  The silicone ab implants are made of a semi-solid implant material.  These ab implants will not leak.  These ab implants are inserted just underneath the fascia of the rectus abdominis muscle.  The abdominal wall implant procedure is a relatively straightforward procedure with immediate results.
There are no known long-term complications by placing silicone implants underneath the fascia of the rectus abdominal muscle.  If you have more fat than a small (2 cm) pinch, most experienced board-certified plastic surgeons recommend the VASER abdominal etching technique.  The rectus abdominis muscles can be sculpted with the VASER abdominal wall etching.  The VASER also helps to maximize skin contracture with ultrasonic energy.  This energy melts the fat and heats the skin, further accentuating the rectus abdominis muscle bellies.  Some plastic surgeons also take aspirated fat during the VAS ER liposuction procedure and inject the fat into the rectus abdominis for further augmentation.  Because of blood supply, most plastic surgeons do not simultaneously perform the rectus abdominis six-pack implants and the VASER liposuction procedure.  Insertion of abdominal implants takes approximately three hours under general anesthesia.  This abdominal etching also takes about three hours under general anesthesia.  Either way plan for about a 7 to 10-day recovery.  It’ll be important for you to wear your abdominal binder for approximately six weeks after the VASER liposuction.  In regards to the abdominal implants, you will need to wear a binder for approximately two weeks.  I hope this information helps to clarify whether you need etching or abdominal or rectus abdominis implants for a sharper six-pack look.  Good luck.
If you have any more questions regarding VASER liposuction or reduction surgery, contact an experienced plastic surgeon. Since VASER HI DEF liposuction is a specialized procedure, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience in VASER HI DEF liposuction.   Do your research.   Look at their website.  Look at their reviews on RealSelf.  If you cannot find an experienced, VASER HI DEF liposuction plastic surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state. 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

Choosing between etching and implants for achieving a sharper six-pack look depends on your goals, body type, and personal preferences. Here’s a comparison of both options:

Abdominal Etching
Procedure:

Abdominal etching is a form of liposuction specifically designed to remove fat around the abdominal muscles, creating the appearance of a six-pack.
The surgeon makes small incisions and uses a cannula to remove fat from targeted areas, highlighting the natural muscle contours.
Pros:

Less invasive compared to implants.
Uses your natural muscle definition.
Shorter recovery time compared to implants.
Results can look more natural if you already have some muscle definition.
Cons:

Results depend heavily on the surgeon’s skill.
Not suitable for those with a high body fat percentage or minimal muscle definition.
Results can be affected by future weight gain or loss.
Ideal Candidate:

Someone with a relatively low body fat percentage.
Individuals who already have some muscle definition but want to enhance it.
Abdominal Implants
Procedure:

Abdominal implants involve placing synthetic implants under the skin to mimic the appearance of well-defined abdominal muscles.
Incisions are made, and implants are inserted to create the six-pack look.
Pros:

Can create a more pronounced and defined six-pack regardless of body fat percentage or muscle mass.
Results are typically permanent and not affected by weight fluctuations.
Cons:

More invasive procedure compared to etching.
Longer recovery time and higher risk of complications such as infection or implant shifting.
Results may look less natural compared to etching.
Ideal Candidate:

Someone with higher body fat or less muscle definition who wants a more pronounced six-pack look.
Individuals who are not able to achieve the desired look through exercise and diet alone.
Considerations
Health: Ensure you are in good health and discuss any medical conditions with your surgeon.
Goals: Clarify your aesthetic goals and expectations with your surgeon to choose the best option.
Cost: Consider the costs, as etching and implants can vary significantly in price.
Recovery: Be prepared for the recovery period and follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions carefully.
Consultation
Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring procedures is crucial. They can assess your body type, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable option for achieving the desired six-pack look.

Chris Funderburk, MD · Answer

I have seen multiple patients just this month who regretted both abdominal implants and so-called "abdominal etching" where fake abs were carved out of the fatty tissue. In both cases, patients complained that their partners noticed the fake appearance and wanted to know what they had done to themselves. 
I would advise you to avoid these procedures. Go to a skilled liposuction surgeon and reduce the fat overlying your normal musculature, go to the gym, and show off your results with pride.

Raja Mohan, MD · Answer

I do not recommend implants for one's abdomen. Fat Transfer or Liposuction techniques are safest and most predicble. I recommend seeing a board certified plastic surgeon.

Sean Satey, MD, FACS · Answer

In my opinion, I'd strongly encourage you to reconsider getting implants placed for a six pack look. I recommend abdominal etching via VASER assisted liposculpting of the abdomen and flanks with Renuvion J plasma vs BodyTite skin tightening. This will bring your underlying abdominal muscles to life and show case your inscriptions (four/six pack muscles) and your vertical lines (linea alba and semilunaris lines). Best, Dr Satey, Beverly Hills, Ca.

Etching or implants for a sharper six-pack look?

Answers (7)

Answer: Silicone implants

Answer: Silicone implants

Answer: Abdominal implants

Answer: Abdominal implants

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Etching or implants for a sharper six-pack look?

Answers (7)

Answer: Silicone implants

Answer: Silicone implants

Answer: Abdominal implants

Answer: Abdominal implants

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Abdominal Etching

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.