Procedure done by Dr. Elnekaveh
Define your core and confidence with ab etching surgery
Every body is unique—and for some, even with consistent diet and exercise, achieving a sharply defined six-pack can feel just out of reach. Ab etching is a precision-based liposculpture procedure that enhances the appearance of the abdominal muscles by removing stubborn fat and creating more visible definition.
This advanced body contouring treatment is ideal for patients who are already close to their goal weight but want to amplify the look of their natural muscle tone. It’s not about changing who you are—it’s about revealing the work you’ve already put in with more confidence and clarity.
Using high-definition liposuction techniques, our surgeons meticulously sculpt the abdomen to highlight the vertical and horizontal lines of the rectus muscles—resulting in a more athletic, chiseled appearance. Whether your goal is subtle contouring or a bold six-pack, ab etching is tailored to your physique and aesthetic goals for results that look natural and refined.
Your body, your goals — Personalized ab etching procedures
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we know that aesthetics aren’t one-size-fits-all—and that goes for ab definition, too. Whether you’re looking to enhance natural muscle tone or finally reveal the core you’ve been working hard to build, your ab etching procedure is customized to fit your body and goals.
Our expert surgeons use advanced high-definition liposuction techniques to strategically remove fat and sculpt around your existing abdominal muscles. The result? A leaner, more defined midsection that complements your overall physique—without overcorrecting or looking unnatural.
Most of our male patients report a noticeable boost in confidence after surgery. Shirts fit better, workouts feel more rewarding, and they finally feel like their reflection matches the effort they’ve put into their fitness. Whether you’re going for a classic V-shape or a sharper, athletic contour, your treatment plan is designed to enhance—not invent—your definition.
While high-definition procedures are trending among male patients, many women are also embracing the power of precise body contouring to enhance their natural curves. For women who are already active but struggling with areas that resist diet and exercise—like the lower abdomen, waist, or inner thighs—techniques like high-definition liposuction can offer transformative results without compromising softness or femininity.
Ab etching surgery at the South Florida Center starts at $3,999 (anesthesia and surgeon fees not included). Final cost will vary based on your specific goals and whether you’re combining procedures like Liposuction 360 or gynecomastia correction.
To make your transformation more accessible, we offer flexible financing options through trusted third-party providers. Our team is here to support you from start to finish—no pressure, just results.
Where will my ab etching incisions be placed?
Ab etching is a high-precision liposculpture technique that enhances the natural contours of your abdominal muscles by removing excess fat from specific areas—like between and around the abs—to reveal a more defined, chiseled appearance.
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we use small, discreet incisions (typically around 3–5 mm in length) to access and sculpt the underlying fat layer. These incisions are strategically placed in natural creases of the skin—such as the belly button, along the waistband, or near the groin—to minimize visibility once healed.
Here’s how the process works
Injection of solution
A tumescent solution is first injected to reduce bleeding and make fat removal smoother.
Cannula insertion
Using high-definition liposuction, a small cannula is inserted through the tiny incisions to precisely remove fat in a way that outlines the natural muscle borders (typically the rectus abdominis and obliques).
Abs contouring
In some cases, additional contouring is done around the flanks or lower abdomen to refine the entire midsection and amplify definition.
Because the focus is on enhancing your body’s natural muscle tone, this is not a “fake six-pack” procedure—it’s a refinement of what’s already there. The key is subtlety, symmetry, and smart placement. During your consultation, your surgeon will map out the ideal incision points and sculpting zones to ensure the most natural-looking and balanced results—with minimal scarring and maximum definition.
What’s the difference between traditional liposuction and ab etching?
While both procedures remove excess fat and sculpt the body, ab etching is a much more targeted and detailed technique—designed specifically to create visible muscle definition in the abdominal area. Here’s how they compare:
Traditional Liposuction
- Focuses on reducing overall fat volume in larger areas like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or arms.
- Aims to create a smoother, slimmer silhouette, not necessarily muscle definition.
- Ideal for patients who want general contouring or fat removal without emphasis on muscle sculpting.
- Results in a flatter appearance but not necessarily a defined or “shredded” look.
Ab Etching (high-definition liposuction)
- Focuses on selectively removing fat between and around the abdominal muscles to highlight muscle contours.
- Ideal for patients who already have a strong core or low body fat and want to enhance muscle visibility (like a six-pack).
- Requires advanced technique and precision to ensure symmetry and a natural-looking outcome.
- Results in a more chiseled, athletic look, especially in the upper and lower abs, obliques, and flanks.
You’ll look like a more confident version of yourself
Enhance muscle definition
Ab etching highlights your natural anatomy by creating visible grooves between your abdominal muscles — delivering a sculpted, athletic look that can be difficult to achieve with exercise alone.
Refine your physique
This procedure helps define your waistline, flatten your midsection, and accentuate your V-line — all while preserving a natural appearance that suits your body’s structure.
Make workouts and progress more visible
You might already hit the gym hard, but stubborn belly fat can hide your abs. Ab etching gives your hard-earned muscle definition the visibility it deserves.
Feel more confident shirtless
Whether at the beach or in the mirror, a leaner, more defined abdomen can boost body confidence and make you feel more comfortable in your skin — and in your clothes.
Achieve long-lasting, natural-looking results
Unlike crash diets or temporary fixes, ab etching is a surgical solution that creates long-lasting definition — especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle and regular training.
Financing options as low as $200 / month
Powered by
Over 4,000+ surgeries completed with exceptional results
Procedure done by Dr. Elnekaveh
Procedure done by Dr. Elnekaveh
Procedure done by Dr. Elnekaveh
Consultation process
01 Complete our form
Fill out our virtual consult form online, so that we can get some more information about you and what you specific needs. Be sure to include any concerns and questions that you have for our staff or surgeons. There is also an option to attach photos for the surgeon to review when evaluating your case.
02 Receive a proposal
In most cases, you’ll receive a proposal within 24 hours of submitting a request via email from your assigned patient care consultant. This will show a breakdown of pricing, what’s included, and next steps to move forward with the surgery. You’ll also be able to contact your consultant moving forward with any questions or concerns about your surgery.
03 Submit photos for review
In order to move forward with your surgery, the surgeon must evaluate your body and your specific goals. Patients can either submit photos including multiple angles (front, back, and both profiles) along with comments about their goals and concerns, or can schedule a video call at their convenience to virtually meet with the surgeon. We offer virtual consultations with Dr. Robert Cucin, Dr. John Pinnella, Dr. Brandon Elnekaveh, and Dr. Rohan Policherla. We also offer in-person consultations with a $500 deposit that goes towards the overall cost of your surgery.
04 Get approved
After your consultation, whether by submitting photos, video call, or in-person, the surgeon will create a surgical plan and approve you as a candidate for surgery. The surgeon might also suggest another procedure. Your patient care consultant will reach out to you to confirm the surgeon’s approval and answer any remaining questions you may have.
05 Leave deposit to hold price
Once you are ready to move forward, you can leave a $500 deposit using a credit card, cash, or one of our trusted financing partners. This deposit goes towards the overall cost of your surgery. Deposits are non-refundable, but remain as a center credit for a period of one year.
06 Schedule surgery
After you leave your deposit, you are ready to schedule your surgery. Our scheduling supervisor will reach out to you and choose dates for your pre-operative and surgical appointments that work for you. If you’re not ready to schedule right away, just let us know when to reach out and we will be happy to follow up at a later time.
Request a consultation
Get a free ab etching consultation. Enter your information below and one of our coordinators will reach out to begin your consultation process.
Surgery and recovery process
30 - 1 Day Before Surgery
You’ll meet with your surgical team to finalize your customized plan. During this time, we’ll take pre-operative photos, complete necessary lab work, and review your medical history. Your care team will guide you through everything you need to know — so you feel fully prepped and confident heading into surgery.
Surgery Day
Ab etching can be done under general or local anesthesia and takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the complexity of your case. Using advanced liposuction techniques, your surgeon will strategically remove fat around your abdominal muscles to enhance natural definition and create a more sculpted look. You’ll return home the same day wearing a compression garment to support healing and minimize swelling.
1 Day Post Op
Expect to rest and limit movement. Soreness, bruising, and swelling are normal. You’ll continue wearing your compression garment full-time to promote proper contouring and support the etched muscle lines.
1 Week Post Op
At your follow-up visit, your surgeon will check your incisions and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected. While you may feel more mobile, it’s important to avoid exercise, heavy lifting, or any core engagement at this stage.
1 Month Post Op
Most patients can return to daily routines and begin low-impact exercise. Swelling will start to subside, and your abdominal contour will become more visible. You may still be asked to wear your garment part-time depending on your surgeon’s recommendations.
2 - 12 Months Post Op
Your final results will begin to take shape as residual swelling fades. The muscle definition created by ab etching becomes more prominent, and you’ll notice a leaner, sharper look. Most patients feel fully healed by month three, with continued refinement over time.
Reviews & ratings
Verified
The results far exceeded my expectations
I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Brandon and the incredible results he delivered with my ab etching procedure at South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery. From the very first consultation, Dr. Brandon made me feel comfortable and confident in my decision. He took the time to explain the entire process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and truly listened to my goals. The procedure itself went smoothly, and I was impressed with how professional and attentive the entire staff was throughout the experience. Dr. Brandon’s skill and precision are unmatched – the results far exceeded my expectations. My abs have never looked more defined and natural, and the contours are exactly what I was hoping for. Recovery was quicker than I anticipated, and the follow-up care was outstanding. Dr. Brandon checked in to ensure everything was healing well, and I felt supported every step of the way. If you’re considering ab etching or any cosmetic procedure, I highly recommend Dr. Brandon. He is a true artist in his field, and I am beyond thrilled with the results. Thank you, Dr. Brandon, for giving me the confidence.
Abdominal Etching
Verified
I feel so much more confident
I had a procedure done with Dr. Brandon Elnekaveh and I couldn’t be happier with the results. From the very first consultation, Dr. Brandon took the time to listen to my goals, explain the procedure in detail, and make me feel completely comfortable and confident in my decision.
The entire experience—from scheduling to post-op care—was smooth, professional, and reassuring. The staff was warm and attentive, and I always felt well cared for.
Most importantly, the outcome has been absolutely fantastic! The results look amazing , even better than I imagined, and I feel so much more confident. I’m deeply grateful to Dr. Brandon and the team for their expertise, kindness, and most of all Dr. Brandon’s artistry.
I highly recommend Dr. Brandon to anyone considering cosmetic surgery.
Dr. Brandon also has the most AWSOME !!! Personality.
Abdominal Etching
Verified
They are the best!
This company is the best. From the beginning to the end everybody was professional and caring. They were helpful, quick to answer and check on me many times after the surgery for months to make sure all is good. They are the best!
Abdominal Etching
See more reviews
Verified
The results have been beyond my expectations
Dr. Brandon Elnekaveh is one of the preeminent surgeons in his field. My experience with him and the folks at the center has been 100 percent on point. Dr. Elnekaveh takes the time to explain exactly what is going to take place and the results have been beyond my expectations. The staff are amazing and the facilities top notch.
Abdominal Etching
Verified
No 5
….
Abdominal Etching
Real patients, real results
The Florida Center Difference
South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery has been around for over 20 years. We have two Florida Health Department Certified Office Based Surgery locations in Fort Lauderdale and Miami and a number of board certified plastic surgeons on our staff who specialize in a variety of procedures. We have been recognized by Boca Magazine’s Top Doctors, Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s Top Docs, RealSelf and have over 500 5-Star reviews.
Awards and recognition
Frequently asked questions
What is ab etching surgery?
Ab etching is a specialized form of liposuction designed to enhance the appearance of your abdominal muscles by removing targeted fat and sculpting around the natural muscle lines to create a more defined, “six-pack” look.
Who is a good candidate for ab etching?
Ideal candidates are men or women who are already close to their goal weight, live an active lifestyle, and have good muscle tone but struggle with stubborn fat that hides muscle definition.
How is ab etching different from traditional liposuction?
Unlike traditional liposuction, which removes fat more broadly, ab etching is a precision-based technique that sculpts around the abdominal muscles to create definition and contour.
How long does ab etching surgery take?
The procedure typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your anatomy and whether other areas are being treated at the same time.
What type of anesthesia is used for ab etching?
Ab etching is most commonly performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
What is the recovery like after ab etching surgery?
Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and tightness for the first week. You’ll wear a compression garment for several weeks and can usually return to light activity after one week and more intense workouts by four to six weeks.
Will I have visible scars after ab etching?
Incisions are small and typically hidden in natural skin creases. Scars are minimal and fade over time with proper care.
How soon will I see results from ab etching?
Initial results are visible within a few weeks, but full results become more defined after swelling subsides — usually around 3 to 6 months post-op.
Is ab etching permanent?
Yes, the fat removed during surgery is permanent. However, maintaining your results will depend on staying active and following a healthy lifestyle to prevent new fat accumulation.
Can ab etching be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients choose to combine ab etching with procedures like liposuction 360, gynecomastia surgery, or high-definition liposuction for a more comprehensive body contouring result.
Does ab etching hurt?
You’ll be under anesthesia during surgery, and any discomfort afterward is typically manageable with prescribed medication and improves significantly within the first week.
How much does ab etching cost?
Pricing varies depending on the extent of your treatment and whether it’s combined with other procedures. At the South Florida Center, we offer flexible financing to help make your goals more attainable.
Are the results of ab etching natural-looking?
Yes, when performed by an experienced surgeon, the results are sculpted to enhance your natural anatomy and muscle structure — not create an artificial or overly exaggerated look.
What are the risks or complications of ab etching?
As with any surgical procedure, risks include swelling, bruising, infection, or asymmetry. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon significantly reduces these risks and ensures a smoother recovery.
You may also be interested in
Our abdominal etching surgery specialist
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, our Abdominal Etching procedure is performed by a team of experienced plastic surgeons, including Dr. Brandon who is known for his meticulous technique and commitment to delivering natural, balanced results.
Dr. Brandon brings a refined approach to breast contouring, focusing on enhancing each patient’s natural shape while restoring balanced proportions and body confidence.
Our team performs Ab Etching surgeries at our modern Fort Lauderdale facility, serving patients locally from Miami, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach, as well as clients who travel from across the U.S. and internationally seeking high-quality aesthetic care in South Florida.
Contact Us
915 Middle River Dr. #213
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Phone: (954) 565-7575
Privacy Policy | HIPAA privacy | Notice of Accessbility | Terms & conditions | Refund & Cancellation Policy | Copyright © 2025 South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery. All rights reserved.