Liposuction Procedure to Bring out Muscle Definition in Already Lean Patient?

Question

My weight is stable around 150lb, and I'm 5'9" male. Even though I have some visible muscle tone, there is a final, probably 5 lbs of fat I need to remove to bring out clear muscle definition (i.e. "shredded"). The fat isn't really localized, but it's distributed in a thin layer that hides the muscle curvature in my abs and arms. Which liposuction procedure is best suited to my situation? I am located in VA. (Disclaimer: the picture is not me, but illustrates what I mean by "shredded")

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

I can assure you that the fellow in this photograph did not get there by liposuction. If you want to get "shredded" or what is generally referred to as ripped, the formula does not involve liposuction. By the way, most so-called high definition liposuction before and after photos that I have seen appear to be maybe liposuction augmented by a couple of thousand hours of working out plus diet. Your height and weight 5'9" and 150lb is abnormally light. If you want to look like the fellow in the photo you need to be prepared to add weight in the form of muscle mass. Here is how you do it: Devote 3 or 4 hours per day 5 or 6 days a week to working out at a cross fit gym or if you live in Salt Lake CIty area go join Gym Jones. Diet is simple: no carbohydrates. Who needs liposuction. BTW this type of intense workout plus diet needs to be under the direct supervision of your personal physician.

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Liposuction can be used as a cosmetic procedure to enhance muscle definition in individuals who are already lean but have localized areas of stubborn fat that obscure the natural contours of their muscles. This procedure is often referred to as "liposculpture" or "body contouring," and it is commonly performed to achieve a more sculpted appearance.

Here's how the liposuction procedure can be tailored to bring out muscle definition in an already lean patient:

Targeted Fat Removal:

Localized Fat Deposits: Liposuction is used to selectively target and remove excess fat deposits in specific areas, such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs, where stubborn pockets of fat may be present.
Precision: Surgeons use liposuction techniques with precision to sculpt the treated area and accentuate the natural contours of the muscles.
Enhanced Muscle Definition:

Highlighting Natural Anatomy: By reducing the thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer, liposuction helps highlight the underlying muscles, such as the rectus abdominis in the abdominal region.
Accentuating Lines: Surgeons can use liposuction to accentuate the lines between muscle groups and create the appearance of more defined muscle definition.
Patient's Role in Results:

Maintaining Muscle Tone: While liposuction removes excess fat, maintaining good muscle tone is crucial for achieving the best results. Regular exercise and targeted strength training can help optimize muscle definition.
Healthy Lifestyle: Following a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and staying physically active, contributes to overall well-being and helps preserve the results of liposuction.
Customization for Each Patient:

Individualized Approach: The liposuction procedure is highly customizable to each patient's unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Consultation with Surgeon: During a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, the patient's specific concerns, goals, and anatomy are discussed to determine the most appropriate approach for achieving the desired results.
Realistic Expectations:

Communication with Surgeon: Clear communication between the patient and the surgeon is essential to ensure realistic expectations and a shared understanding of the achievable outcomes.
Post-Operative Care: Following post-operative care instructions, including the use of compression garments and activity restrictions, is crucial for optimal healing and results.
It's important to note that while liposuction can enhance muscle definition, it does not replace the need for a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise. Individuals considering liposuction for body contouring should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, receive a personalized assessment, and understand the potential benefits and limitations of the procedure.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Vaser assisted liposuction utilizes ultrasound to emulsify or melt felt prior to removal. It is also used to etch or define the muscles and normal anatomy to enhance the results. I use a specialized technique to remove the deeper fat areas and sculpt the superficial fat, so that one can achieve the goal of having not only a flatter stomach but also a more defined and curvaceous body if wanted.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.  Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery and high definition body contouring.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Abdominal etching removes excess fat from between the abdominal muscles to give you better definition. You should have a total body fat percentage that's lower than 18% are usually not candidates for successful results.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

It's not the equipment or even type of liposuction that makes much of a differenece, but the experience, knowledge and artistic sense of the surgeon that is utilized to produce the desired result. Superficial liposculpture/liposuction is controversial as the excessive removal of superficial fat will make the underlying muscle anatomy more visible, but there is a risk of permanent alteration of the skin's appearance and even scar tissue. Some fat needs to remain as a cushion and a protective layer to maintain the skin's normal defenses and healthy circulation.

Harold Bautista, MD, FACS · Answer

HIgh def or 3D liposuction requires special equipment like the VASER . The best results require smaller diameter canulas and extreme patience and artistry on the surgeons part. Many surgeons can perform a Debulking type of liposuction, but the ability to enhance the contour of muscles takes experience, patience and artistic skills.

Eugene Nowak, DO · Answer

Thank you so much for your inquiry.  I find many patients tackling this challenge and am always elated to share a new and incredibly effective solution for them.  Many people may recommend abdominal etching - which is a refined liposuction technique which enhances a patient's natural anatomy to further define the muscular contour of the abdominal and oblique muscles.  This is definitely effective, but for many lean patients may not be the best option for them. 
Enter EMSCULPT.  EMSCULPT is a new technology that further defines the abdominal musculature by actually building muscle mass and further reducing fatty volume.  This technology is the FIRST and ONLY of its kind in the cosmetic space.  This procedure is the only one which directly targets ones own muscle fibers to build muscle mass.  With 4 simple 30 minute procedures in 2 weeks, you can achieve a more chiseled look without even having to go to the gym.  Each 30 minute treatment utilizes electromagnetic energy to stimulate muscle fibers and is the equivalent of doing 20,000 crunches in just ONE session!  
With no downtime, no incisions, no surgery and great results - I find my patients who are interested in achieving the ultimate abdominal aesthetic utilize EMSCULPT to do so in just a few weeks.  There is more information available as this is a new and proven technology with limited availability across the U.S. - I hope this information is helpful and wish you luck on your sculpting journey!

Jeffrey Claiborne, MD · Answer

For patients with very little fat, the liposuction technique needs to be specifically designed and tailored for these cases. SAFELipo, in my opinion, is by far the safest and best way to liposuction patients who have very little fat. SAFELipo is a 3-step process that enables removal of stubborn fat that traditionally would be dangerous to remove with other techniques. Because SAFELipo liquifies the fat and uses fat grafting, it leaves a very natural, smooth result which can be difficult to obtain as patients are thinner and more fit.

Brian Arslanian, MD · Answer

Great question, but honestly we would need to see some photos to have a better idea of what we are dealing with. Abdominal etching can be great in patients that are already lean and defined. "The above answer has been given without seeing this patient and cannot be substituted for actual in-person examination and medical advice; it is only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Sergio Pasquale Maggi, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello onHRT,Thank you for your question about the Ab-Etch procedure. This is a very effective procedure when performed with precision, and attention to detail both by the surgeon and patient.  It requires a patient that is committed to a healthy lifestyle, maintains his/her weight, and focused on the specifics to the healing period. Like any cosmetic procedure, patient selection, a motivation for a desired outcome with determination to maintain the result makes this a rewarding experience.Best wishes,Sergio Maggi, MDdrmaggi.comDirector- Austin Plastic Surgery Center

Liposuction Procedure to Bring out Muscle Definition in Already Lean Patient?

Answers (14)

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