Six-Packs Achievable Via Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that uses a pen-like device to suction out the unwanted fats which do not respond to rigorous exercise and diet.  But with the advances in plastic surgery, this treatment is also used to create six-packs abs.

Despite countless of hours in the gym, some people will not achieve the much coveted six-packs because of genetic predisposition.  Also the excess fats in the abdominal area tend to be stubborn that no matter how some individuals perform rigorous exercises, the bulges seem not to go away.

Abdominal etching is a special type of liposuction in which the plastic surgeons use a cannula (pen-like device) that is smaller than the one used during the traditional technique.  With this instrument, doctors strategically remove the excess fats to create grooves which in turn results to the appearance of six-packs.

Usually, doctors create several small incisions (about 1-2mm in length) which can heal quickly without causing visible scars in most cases.

Abdominal etching through liposuction surgery is typically conducted under general anesthesia, though some plastic surgeons prefer using “twilight” anesthesia which can sedate the patients but they will still remain awake.  And as a relatively simply procedure, most patients can return just a few hours following their operation.

Of course, the small incision and removal of excess fats can still lead to pain and discomfort which is the most pronounced during the first to second day following liposuction.  To control this symptom, doctors recommend over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications.

To further minimize the pain, plastic surgeons recommend compression garments wrapped around the abdomen.  By wearing them, the skin will also retract and heal closer to the body and the patients can shorten their recovery.

Ideally, compression garments are worn three to six weeks at all time even during sleep (except when bathing), depending on the surgeon’s instruction.

Because of the swelling, the grooves that create the six-packs abs will not be apparent within the first few weeks.  In most cases, it takes about six months before the patients see the muscular appearance.

But as with any cosmetic surgery, abdominal etching through liposuction has its own limitations and disadvantages.  First and foremost, it cannot create a muscular appearance for patients who are 25 pounds heavier than their ideal weight; another consideration to make is that significant weight fluctuations can totally reverse the result.

Since maintaining normal weight is the most important thing after abdominal etching, plastic surgeons consider a patient’s willingness to stick to a healthier way of life—e.g., regular exercise and moderate diet.