Baltimore’s most prominent plastic surgeon and body contouring specialist, Dr. Daniel Markmann, is proud to be featured in the monthly men’s magazine GQ. Ever keen to educate others about the latest plastic surgery techniques, Dr. Markmann sat down with journalist Jeff Wilser in March of this year to discuss the rising popularity of abdominal etching, or, as it is sometimes called, the creation of a “fake six-pack”.
For men striving for a chiseled, defined abdomen that showcases their hard work and dedication to fitness, abs that are lacking in definition can be disheartening. And sometimes, despite our best efforts in the gym, achieving those six-pack abs can feel elusive. But, as Dr. Markman was eager to point out in his interview, there is hope for those who need a little help to jump the final hurdle and achieve Adonis-like abdominals.
At Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery, Dr. Markmann specializes in abdominal etching procedures that can help you to achieve the six-pack you’ve always wanted. With his expertise and meticulous attention to detail, he can help you achieve the washboard abs you’ve always desired.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards achieving a sculpted abdomen and enhancing your overall physique, call (410) 465-3600 or complete this simple form on our website to book your consultation. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to schedule your consultation with Dr. Markmann and answer any questions you may have.
Interested in more information about plastic surgery? Read more on Dr. Markmann’s blog.
About Dr. Markmann
Dr. Markmann is a board-certified plastic surgeon who takes pride in providing tailored treatment plans that meet his patient’s unique needs and goals. Backed by years of experience, Dr. Markmann’s philosophy is clear. He’s here to provide the safest, most effective results, not the cheapest!
Accolades
- Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Completed Fellowships at Johns Hopkins University and Rush University
- Member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Recognized by RealSelf as a Top Doctor
- Abdominal Etching and Body Contouring Pioneer
See our full list of procedures here. Are you a new patient? Read our new patients page.
What is Abdominal Etching?
Abdominal etching, also known as liposculpture or abdominal definition surgery, is an aesthetic procedure that aims to create a more chiseled and toned appearance to the abdominal muscles. As Dr. Markmann explains to GQ, this procedure is specifically designed for individuals who already have well-developed abdominal muscles but struggle with excess fat deposits obscuring their definition.
During the procedure, a skilled plastic surgeon utilizes advanced differential liposuction to precisely remove targeted pockets of fat around the abdominal area. By strategically sculpting the fat layers, the underlying musculature is accentuated, resulting in a more defined and contoured abdomen. (1) The surgeon carefully contours the abdominal region, taking into consideration the patient’s unique anatomy and desired outcome.
Abdominal etching is a highly personalized procedure, tailored to each patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals. The surgical plan may involve addressing not only the central abdominal muscles but also the obliques and other surrounding muscle groups to achieve a harmonious and balanced result.
For the Love of Liposculpture
One of the primary benefits of abdominal etching is the appearance of enhanced muscular definition. Dr. Markmann utilizes advanced techniques to strategically remove excess fat, revealing the underlying muscles and creating a more chiseled appearance. The result is a toned and sculpted midsection that accentuates the natural contours of the body.
Enhanced Abs, Boosted Confidence
Beyond the physical changes, abdominal etching has a significant impact on a patient’s emotional well-being. By achieving their desired body contouring goals, individuals experience increased self-confidence and body positivity. The transformation of the midsection often leads to greater overall satisfaction with one’s body image, resulting in improved mental and emotional well-being.
The Ideal Ab Etching Patient
- Already Fit
- BMI Under 30
- Has Tight Skin
- Stable Weight
Ideal candidates for abdominal etching have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery. Candidates should be non-smokers, as smoking can negatively impact the healing process.
Did you know? Average patient satisfaction rates for abdominal etching are as high as 95%. (2)
Say Farewell to Fat Cells
Fat cells, also known as adipocytes or lipocytes, are the fundamental building blocks of adipose tissue, which is responsible for storing energy in the form of fat. These specialized cells play a significant role in our body composition and overall appearance. But what most patients don’t realize, as explained in Dr. Markmann’s GQ interview, is that they do not multiply. They merely swell and shrink according to a patient’s weight. This means once fat cells are removed through liposculpture, they’re gone for good.
“Fat’s like jello. If you squeeze it, you squish it flat. I want to keep the creases.” – Dr. Markmann (3)
A Personal Consultation with Dr. Markmann
At Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery, we understand that achieving a sculpted physique and six-pack abs is a goal of many individuals. That’s why Dr. Markmann, offers comprehensive abdominal etching procedures to help you achieve the rippled look you’ve always dreamed of.
During a personal consultation at our state-of-the-art Baltimore facility, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your cosmetic goals in detail. Dr. Markmann will take the time to listen attentively to your concerns and understand your unique desires. He will conduct a thorough examination of your abdominal muscles, assessing their current condition and determining the extent of body contouring needed to achieve your desired results.
Dr. Markmann believes that a successful surgical journey begins with a thorough consultation. We encourage you to contact our office at (410) 465-3600 to schedule your consultation with him. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you and answer any questions you may have. If you are unable to visit our Baltimore location, we also offer virtual consultations so that you can receive expert guidance from the comfort of your own home.
Abdominal Etching Procedure
During the abdominal etching procedure, Dr. Markmann makes small strategic incisions in inconspicuous areas of the abdomen. Through these incisions, a thin, specialized cannula is used to remove small amounts of fat from specific areas around the abdominal muscles. By skillfully removing fat deposits between the muscle groups, he can create the appearance of more prominent and defined abdominal muscles.
What is Abdominal Etching Recovery Like?
Following abdominal etching surgery, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. However, this is typically manageable with prescribed pain medication and can be alleviated with proper rest and following post-operative care instructions. Most patients can expect to return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing capacity. Engaging in strenuous activities, including intense exercise, should be avoided for several weeks to allow for optimal healing.
Lasting Results
It is important to note that the results of abdominal etching are long-lasting, provided that patients maintain a healthy lifestyle. With proper diet and exercise, enhanced abdominal contours can be maintained for years to come, allowing individuals to enjoy their newfound confidence and body satisfaction!
How Much is Abdominal Etching in Baltimore?
We will review the cost of your procedure after your one-on-one meeting with Dr. Markmann.
Transform your abdominal muscles and enhance your overall body contour through the artistry of plastic surgery. If you are interested in learning more, we encourage you to contact our office at (410) 465-3600 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Markmann.
FAQ
Do I have to change my diet before I get abdominal etching?
Maintaining a healthy diet before your procedure is important for optimal healing and recovery. As every patient is different, your surgeon will tailor an individualized treatment plan to your needs, including specific dietary recommendations. Additionally, they may recommend avoiding certain foods and beverages, such as alcohol and caffeine, to reduce the risk of complications and promote a swift recovery.
Can fat cells come back after liposculpture?
While the fat cells that are removed during liposculpture do not come back, it’s essential to note that the remaining fat cells in the treated area can still expand if a person gains weight in the future. Therefore, maintaining a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle is crucial to preserving the results of liposuction and preventing new fat deposits from forming.
Can abdominal etching be combined with other procedures?
Yes, abdominal etching can be combined with other body contouring procedures to achieve comprehensive aesthetic results. Procedures include liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), and chest sculpting for men (gynecomastia surgery), though it is usually advisable to undergo gynecomastia surgery separately before your abdominal etching procedure takes place.
References
- Agochukwu-Nwubah N, Mentz HA. Abdominal Etching: Past and Present. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2019;39(12):1368-1377. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjz153
- Durry A, Laurent R, Andreoletti JB. [Patients’ satisfaction after abdominal etching]. Annales De Chirurgie Plastique Et Esthetique. 2019;64(4):298-310. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anplas.2019.06.004
- Wilser J. Welcome to the Era of the Fake Six-Pack. GQ. Published March 17, 2023. https://www.gq.com/story/ab-etching-fake-six-pack