At FORM Face + Body, we’re experts in all things aesthetics, and liposuction is one of our most frequently used tools of the trade. Liposuction complements a vast array of procedures by suctioning out fat cells from target sites that our surgeons precisely map out to make your cosmetic surgery results that much more impactful. What many people don’t realize is that liposuction results can vary quite a bit depending on the surgeon you choose and the technique you decide on together—one such technique is what we call hi-def liposuction, also known as abdominal etching. Keep reading to get our surgeons’ take on this procedure.
What are the results of regular liposuction?
The goal of regular liposuction is reducing and smoothing—eliminating the pockets of fat that cause bulges, pouches and folds. Essentially, liposuction is intended to act like permanent shapewear, creating continuous contours and bringing you closer to the shape you want to be. Liposuction can be used on one area at a time such as the back, lower stomach, or thighs. We can also combine multiple areas for full-body contouring, though your surgeon will need to stay below a safe threshold for maximum fat removal at one time (we also like to make sure your recovery will be manageable).
How is hi-def liposuction different from regular liposuction?
With hi-def liposuction, we’re beginning with a different goal in mind. Beyond reducing fat and smoothing curves, hi-def liposuction is tailored to define your muscles, giving you a stronger and fitter appearance. We accomplish this by removing more fat from around and between the major muscle groups to make them ‘pop’ more. Hi-def liposuction often involves the use of VASER, a technology that breaks down fat cells with ultrasound energy to aid in their removal and giving us more precision in the results we can achieve. VASER also offers some skin tightening benefits.
How does abdominal etching work?
Abdominal etching describes the use of hi-def liposuction specifically in the rectus abdominis region—that is to say, the six pack muscles and the vertical line that runs between them, called the linea alba. Everyone has a unique fat distribution, and whether or not your abs are visible can vary between two people of the same BMI. Abdominal etching allows us to reveal this musculature in a way that may not be achievable with weight loss alone. However, we do advise patients to exercise caution when seeking very aggressive ab etching treatments, as this could lead to issues in the long term when natural skin laxity begins to set in as you age. At FORM, abdominal etching does not involve the use of implants.
Who is a good candidate for abdominal etching?
The best candidate for abdominal etching is someone who looks like they should have abs…but don’t. You should be at a stable weight, close to your ideal—meaning you haven’t lost or gained weight for at least three months prior to surgery and don’t anticipate significant weight changes in the future. Patients with good skin elasticity tend to benefit the most from hi-def liposuction, because their skin can shrink and conform well to the new of the underlying tissues. Both men and women can be candidates for ab etching.
What other areas can be targeted with hi-def liposuction?
Abs aren’t the only area we can treat with hi-def liposuction—the flanks, back, arms, chest (for men), thighs, or buttocks could all be part of your treatment plan. We can also pair liposuction with fat transfer for even more of a body recomposition—transferring fat to the breasts or hip dips are popular options for women.
How long is the recovery from hi-def liposuction and abdominal etching?
Typically, patients can return to work and most normal activities within a week. You’ll need to wear a compression garment to support your healing as well as to create optimal results. This should be worn for three weeks night and day, followed by at night only for another three weeks. You’ll also need to refrain from your exercise routine for 2-3 weeks—then you can get back to building those muscles!
