Abdominal Etching-A Novel Classification Method for Surgical Approach.

[BACKGROUND] The abdomen is the aesthetic and physical center of the body. Abdominal etching is used to enhance the appearance of the abdominal musculature. Body contouring and abdominal etching are popular among both men and women, and these procedures have been shown to result in high patient satisfaction and are considered safe. The aim of this study was to describe a novel classification for abdominal etching based on the senior author's technique and experience.

[METHODS] This single surgeon, nonrandomized, retrospective study was conducted from December 2016 to September 2022. Patients were classified into 4 groups based on their body habitus, abdominal skin pinch test and skin quality, and the surgical plan was tailored accordingly.

[RESULTS] Sixty-two patients (42 male) with an average age of 36 years underwent abdominal etching during the study period. Subgrouping included 4 (6.45%) in Class 1, 22 (35.5%) in Class 2, 32 (51.6%) in Class 3 and 4 (6.45%) in Class 4. The most common complication was seroma. Concomitant procedures included silicone implants to the pectoral region (male), fat injection to the buttocks, breast reduction and mastopexy and treatment of post-liposuction irregularities.

[CONCLUSIONS] The abdominal etching technique is safe and reproducible. It has demonstrated long-lasting results and high patient satisfaction. Our classification of patients will enable surgeons to better understand the problem presented and provide aesthetic and efficient results. Use of these guidelines and tailoring treatment options will further improve patient and physician satisfaction.

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