Chinese Influencer Injects Fake Abs with Hyaluronic Acid

The Rise of Artificial Abs: A Trend or a Health Risk?

In a bold move that has captured global attention, a man from China reportedly spent over 820 million Korean won on hyaluronic acid injections to create artificial abs. This unconventional approach to achieving a sculpted physique has sparked debates about the intersection of beauty, health, and technology.

A Unique Approach to Fitness

According to a report by Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post (SCMP), the individual in question, known online as Andy Hao Tienan, claims to be the “first case in China” to have created artificial eight-pack abs through hyaluronic acid injections. Hao, originally from Heilongjiang Province, is an influencer with around 100,000 followers, primarily sharing content related to beauty and fashion.

Hao's social media profile highlights the natural presence of hyaluronic acid in the body, stating, “20% of the body contains hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that helps lubricate joints and maintain moisture.” This scientific angle appears to be part of his strategy to legitimize his unconventional method.

A Significant Investment

The procedure involved 40 sessions of hyaluronic acid injections in his shoulders, collarbone, chest, and abdomen, costing approximately 4 million yuan (around 820 million Korean won). Hao explained that he opted for cosmetic procedures because he believed traditional exercise alone could not achieve the muscular physique he desired.

“I agree with the saying that muscles do not form in cowards,” Hao said. “But I endured countless injections. I am no longer a coward. Do you have the courage to do the same?” He added, “If my abs remain intact three years later, I will apply to the Guinness World Records as the longest-lasting artificial abs made with hyaluronic acid. I will also host a live broadcast cracking walnuts on my abs.”

Long-Term Results and Public Reaction

In a video filmed nearly five months after the procedure, Hao expressed continued satisfaction with the results. “There is no muscle swelling at all. It’s exactly how I wanted it. Many say hyaluronic acid dissolves within months, but doctors told me it can shift or clump,” he said. “Over time, it looks more natural and better. Even the lines between my abs remain distinct and do not merge.”

However, medical experts caution against such procedures, highlighting potential health risks. Li Zarun, a chief plastic surgeon at a hospital in Wuhan, Hebei Province, and a social media influencer with over 1.7 million followers, pointed out, “Injecting hyaluronic acid 40 times is highly likely to damage the skin and cause vascular necrosis.”

Risks and Realities

Li further explained, “While muscles may appear realistic when static, they are dynamic units, so their movement will definitely look distorted.” He added, “Hyaluronic acid and fillers can erode bones and press on muscles, thinning them. Once the fillers dissolve, the original muscles may appear even weaker.”

This raises critical questions about the long-term effects of such procedures. While the desire for a perfect physique is understandable, the potential consequences must be considered carefully. The use of hyaluronic acid for cosmetic purposes is not without its risks, and the long-term implications are still not fully understood.

Conclusion

Hao's story highlights the growing trend of using non-traditional methods to achieve physical goals. However, it also underscores the importance of consulting with medical professionals before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. As society continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of the balance between aesthetics and health.