Dr Kim explains that Vaser liposuction of the abdomen generally aims to remove fat with subtle vertical definition, while Hi-Def, also called HD or ab etching, removes fat between the rectus abdominis, or six-pack, muscles to make them more visible. He performs it selectively, because skin quality and the rectus abdominis muscle both affect whether an outcome would look realistic.
So another common question that I get asked frequently is the difference between Vaser liposuction and Vaser hi-def Vaser HD ab etching they all relatively mean the same thing. So with Vaser liposuction of the abdomen generally the idea is to remove as much fat as possible try to get sort of subtle vertical ab definition. Now, hi-def ab etching, that's when you're really trying to take the fat out between the muscle bellies of your six-pack muscle or the rectus abdominis to get that six-pack or four-pack look.
Now, I do that very selectively on patients because it's not just about removing the fat. At the end of the day, the result has to look realistic and be believable. They are your abs coming through. Whilst everyone has those rectus muscles, taking the fat away will reveal them. you're really requiring the Vaser to have to tighten and contract the skin to the extent that this overlying skin is almost shrink wrapped over the muscle bellies to make it look realistic.
So patients that have slightly loose skin from various reasons or their rectus abdominis muscle isn't very bulbous to be able to almost poke through the skin. I tend to not do the hi-def because ultimately results of liposuction is trying to make things look realistic and completely believable that it's real.
In this video, Dr Mitchell Kim (MED0001187435, Registered Medical Practitioner: General) explains how Vaser liposuction differs from Vaser Hi-Def, also known as HD or ab etching. Below is some background to help you understand the topic before you speak with a practitioner.
Dr Kim explains that with Vaser liposuction of the abdomen, the idea is generally to remove fat and aim for subtle vertical abdominal definition.
Hi-Def, which you may also hear called HD or ab etching, aims to take fat out between the muscle bellies of the rectus abdominis, or six-pack muscles, to make the muscles more visible. Vaser Hi-Def is a technique that uses ultrasound assistance to target both superficial and deeper layers of fat.
Dr Kim says he performs this very selectively, because it is not just about removing fat. The skin needs to contract closely over the muscle bellies for the outcome to look realistic. If a patient has slightly loose skin, or a rectus abdominis muscle that is not very prominent, he says he tends not to perform it.
In general, practitioners may consider people who are in good general health and at a stable weight, who are looking to address specific areas of fat rather than overall weight loss, and who have skin with sufficient elasticity. Suitability can only be determined in a consultation with a registered medical practitioner.
All surgery carries risk. Potential complications include infection, swelling, bruising, scarring, burns, changes in skin sensation, asymmetry or uneven results, fluid accumulation and, in rare cases, blood clots or reactions to anaesthesia. Some people may need further surgery. Recovery times and outcomes vary between individuals. Read more about risks and recovery.
Cosmetic surgery is a serious decision. If you’re considering Vaser Hi-Def liposuction, you will need a referral, preferably from your usual general practitioner, before your consultation. The consultation is the place to discuss your concerns, medical history, options (including not having surgery), risks and costs. Learn more about Vaser Hi-Def liposuction or request a consultation.
All surgery carries risk. Outcomes are individual and may vary. Speak with a registered medical practitioner about whether a procedure is suitable for you. View risks
Request a consultation with a registered medical practitioner to discuss your concerns, options, risks and recovery.
