In a first-of-its-kind case in China, a social media influencer reportedly spent US$560,000 on hyaluronic acid injections to sculpt artificial eight-pack abs after failing to achieve his desired physique through exercise.
The man, known online as Andy Hao Tienan, hails from Heilongjiang province in northeastern China and has amassed over 100,000 followers on social media, where he regularly shares beauty and fashion content.
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), Andy claims that his body now contains 20% hyaluronic acid, with plans to receive 10,000 injections in total, of which 40% have already been completed. Earlier this year, he made headlines for spending four million yuan on 40 acid injections across his shoulders, collarbones, chest, and abdomen to create his sculpted look.
“I totally agree that muscles do not grow on cowards,” he said in a post. “But I have had so many injections. I am no coward anymore. Could you dare to do the same?”
Andy further announced his intent to apply for a Guinness World Record if his artificial abs last for three years, even promising to crack walnuts on his abs during a livestream to prove their durability.
Medical Experts Raise Red Flags
However, medical professionals have strongly cautioned against such extreme procedures. Dr. Li Jialun, an attending physician in the Department of Plastic Surgery at Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, told SCMP that injecting such a large amount of hyaluronic acid poses serious medical risks, including skin necrosis, blood vessel damage, and muscle erosion.
“While the muscles may appear realistic when still, their movement will look unnatural,” Dr. Li said. “Moreover, excessive fillers can exert pressure on muscles and bones, making them thinner over time.”
Internet Reacts
The bizarre story has sparked widespread discussion online. Many users expressed disbelief at the lengths people go to for physical perfection.
“Oh my god, is this really how rich people spend their money? Four million could buy me a lifetime supply of protein powder,” one netizen commented.
“You’d need to walk around shirtless every day to show it off, or the four million would be wasted,” another wrote.
