Plastic surgery procedure uses patient's own body fat to create six-pack abs

LOS ANGELES - According to a study published in the Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, achieving the ideal body with toned, chiseled abs seems unattainable for some, but the study contends that there’s another way to get that perfect six pack.

A surgical procedure that’s designed to take your already existing body fat and literally repurpose it into a six pack is becoming more popular. The procedure is called Abdominal Etching. 

The study says that despite diet and exercise, many are unable to achieve a desired muscular physique and “defined anterior abdominal wall.” The study's authors say that the procedure has become increasingly popular among patients seeking a more well-toned body with muscular definition.

The process involves a total of six incisions in which a liposuction technique that uses preexisting body fat to create the appearance of having an actual six pack. 

“Once it is established that abdominal etching is the best surgical option for the patient, a detailed physical examination and careful evaluation of the patient’s anatomy should be performed,” the study says.  

Achieving a six pack without rigorous exercise might seem like it’s too good to be true, and that’s because it probably is. Researchers say that the most optimal results of the procedure are achieved on patients who maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. 

The study reviewed 50 patients who underwent the procedure and found that, “Abdominal etching is a safe and effective method of creating a defined anterior abdominal wall for patients who desire the muscular definition of vertical abdominal lines.”

Researchers found that most of the patients ranging in age from 21 to 55 years were satisfied with the procedure and “maintained long-term results.”