What to Expect with Abdominal Etching Surgery:

Dr. Mentz originated and developed this specialized technique in 1993 and has led the nation in performing these cases receiving national and international recognition for his efforts. He has made 7 regional, national and international presentations and publication reviewing these new techniques.

Abdominal etching, more commonly referred to as the rippled or washboard look, is a liposuction procedure designed to give patients a new abdomen and waist contour. Men find this procedure especially helpful in defining the subtle abdominal muscles producing the six-pack muscle ripples so popular today.

The procedure involves liposculpture which creates subtle ripples in the abdominal area allowing the underlying abdominal muscles to show greater detail. Fat is selectively removed through a small hollow tube inserted through one or more tiny incisions.

For most men the midline linea alba is etched along with the outline of the rectus muscle after generalized thinning is completed. For body builders, the transverse inscriptions or horizontal lines are etched in. This is called Full Abdominal Etching. Modified Abdominal Etching leaves out the transverse inscriptions or horizontal grooves and is a better strategy for non body builders.

Most incisions are hidden in the natural body creases of the body leaving very small scars. For those patients who exercise on a regular basis or with excellent skin tone, a better defined washboard stomach can be obtained in just hours.

This procedure is not a substitute for weight loss and the best candidates are of relatively normal weight with isolated pockets of fat. Surgery usually takes one to two hours under general anesthesia and return to work is in about 3-5 days. Pain is moderate to minimal and you can work out in just 5-7 days.

Abdominal Etching Surgery FAQ

Are the incisions visible?
Most incisions are hidden in the natural body creases of the body leaving very small scars.