I'm very confused. What's the difference between ab etching and liposuction?

Excellent question. 
Abdominal etching is performed using Vaser assisted liposuction, which utilizes ultrasound to emulsify or melt felt prior to removal. This type of liposuction is 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 you can achieve the goal of having not only a flatter stomach but also a more defined and curvaceous body if wanted. I can use this technique on the arms as well.

I also use the fat removed to graft into the pecs for men (or breasts for women) as well as into the arms and other areas to further enhance muscle definition.

The best candidates for the procedure already have a good muscular base.

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

Abdominal etching and liposuction are both cosmetic procedures that involve the removal of excess fat, but they differ in their goals and techniques. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between abdominal etching and liposuction:

Abdominal Etching:

Goal: The primary goal of abdominal etching is to enhance the visibility of the underlying abdominal muscles by selectively removing fat in specific areas. This creates the appearance of more defined muscle contours, often resembling a six-pack.
Target Area: Abdominal etching is highly focused on the abdominal region, specifically the rectus abdominis muscles.
Technique: Surgeons use liposuction techniques but with a more detailed and precise approach to selectively remove fat around the muscle borders, emphasizing the natural anatomy of the abdominal muscles.
Liposuction:

Goal: Liposuction is a broader term that refers to the removal of excess fat from various areas of the body to improve overall body contours. The goal is not necessarily to enhance muscle definition but rather to sculpt and contour the body by reducing localized fat deposits.
Target Areas: Liposuction can be performed on multiple body areas, including the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms, and more.
Technique: Liposuction techniques involve the suction of fat through a thin tube (cannula) inserted through small incisions. The surgeon may use various methods, such as traditional liposuction, power-assisted liposuction, or laser-assisted liposuction.
Key Differences:

Focus: Abdominal etching specifically targets the abdominal muscles and aims to enhance their visibility. Liposuction, in a more general sense, focuses on reducing localized fat in various body areas.
Outcome: The outcome of abdominal etching is often a more sculpted and defined appearance of the abdominal muscles. Liposuction results in improved body contours by reducing excess fat in targeted areas.
Technique: Abdominal etching is a specialized form of liposuction with a focus on muscle enhancement, while liposuction encompasses a range of techniques for overall body contouring.
Considerations:

Ideal Candidates: Abdominal etching is suitable for individuals with good muscle tone seeking enhanced abdominal muscle definition. Liposuction is suitable for those looking to reduce localized fat deposits and improve overall body contours.
Customization: Abdominal etching is highly customized to the anatomy of the abdominal muscles. Liposuction can be tailored to address specific areas of concern on the body.
It's important to note that the terminology used by surgeons may vary, and some may use the term "abdominal etching" to describe a more general form of liposuction focused on the abdomen. If you're considering either procedure, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, receive a personalized assessment, and understand the most suitable approach for achieving your desired results.

Thank you for your question regarding the difference between Ab Etching and liposuction. Ab etching is a form of liposuction. During liposuction, fat is removed. During abdominal etching, extra time is spent to chisel out the fat that overlies the muscle leading to a more muscular and athletic appearance. In traditional liposuction of the abdominal wall, the tumescent solution is inserted and allowed to sit to maximize the VASER construction of the epinephrine. Then a cannula is inserted, and fat is asperated. During ab etching, there is another step between the insertion of tumescent solution and aspiration of fat. This is the application of an instrument called the VASER. VASER uses ultrasonic energy to melt the fat around the muscle bellies and heats the skin to maximize skin shrinkage during healing. Ab etching requires more time and careful precision. In addition, ab etching requires intricately knowing the abdominal wall musculature. In the end, it ultimately depends on what you are looking for. If you're looking for a more flat abdomen, consider traditional liposuction. Consider abdominal etching if you're looking for a six-pack, athletic-looking abdomen. Yes, if you have traditional liposuction, you will probably not have resulting abs. You will probably have a flat abdomen without fat. The abdominal etching does provide accentuation and definition of the rectus abdominal muscle. I hope I helped to answer your question regarding the difference between Ab Etching and liposuction.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen