Male chest enhancement, known as "pec" implants, is now more popular than ever. Increasing numbers of men are choosing to enhance their physique, body symmetry, and self-image with pectoral implants. This procedure can be performed to enhance an already shapely physique, or pectoral implants may be used for those who simply do not have the time or desire to spend countless hours at the gym.
Pectoral augmentation, is a surgical procedure designed to add fullness, size, and shape to the male chest. This procedure involves inserting a soft, high-grade, solid silicone implant into a space created under the pectoral muscles. To the touch, it has the feeling and consistency of a flexed muscle. Unlike female breast augmentation, after this procedure is properly completed and healed, there is no additional surgery required. Gynecomastia or excess male breast tissue frequently present, should be removed with liposculpture along with the "pec" implant surgery. Liposculpture of the love handles, abdomen, waist and back, or any combination thereof, is also performed to enhance the shape and contour of the upper torso.
Male pectoral implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. A consultation and physical examination with your plastic surgeon will determine the most appropriate size and shape for each individual. Scars are easily hidden in the armpit within the hair-bearing skin. An ideal candidate for pectoral implants is a man who is dissatisfied with his underdeveloped chest and who is free of any pre-existing medical complications including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, skin/connective tissue disorders, etc.
During the initial consultation, it is important to review the patient's medical history, goals, and expectations, as well as to build mutual trust and rapport. Before and after photos from previous pectoral implants are reviewed, and the procedure is carefully explained and the alternatives discussed. A complete evaluation and physical examination is performed for each patient to ensure that expectations can be met by the procedure.
The size and shape of the implants to be used are determined next . The surgical plan, as well as the incisions/scar placement, is also reviewed. Every effort is made to accomplish the desired set of goals. However, no cosmetic surgeon can guarantee the exact size, projection, and contour of the male chest. Prospective patients are encouraged to speak with previous patients about their surgery and results. Following the initial consultation and after appropriate time for reflection, an appointment is scheduled for routine preparation and informed consent. Additional questions and concerns may also be addressed.
Pectoral implant surgery is usually performed in our outpatient facility using general anesthesia. Local anesthesia, with intravenous sedation, may also be used in certain circumstances. This surgical procedure takes approximately one and one-half hours to perform. The surgical plan, including implant placement and lines of incisions, is outlined prior to surgery.
Once the patient is asleep, an incision is made, approximately four centimeters in length, in the natural crease of the hair-bearing skin of the armpit. A "pocket" or space is created under each pectoral muscle of the chest corresponding to the planned outline on the skin, which was marked prior to surgery. The solid silicone pectoral implants are then inserted. The table back is elevated and adjustments in implant placement are made, as necessary. Before closure, a long acting anesthetic is poured around the implants, which dramatically reduces postoperative discomfort. The incision is closed with sutures below the level of the skin to avoid cross-hatching and suture marks. Liposuction, or any other planned procedure, is then performed. At the conclusion of surgery, a light dressing and elastic compression garment is applied over the surgical area.
Following the surgery, patients report mild to moderate discomfort, which is easily controlled with medication. Varying degrees of swelling and bruising, generally mild, subside over several weeks. Gentle arm raising maneuvers begin immediately after surgery, and the elastic compression garment or Ace bandage is worn for two weeks. Routine activities may resume at two weeks and exercise started at eight weeks. Complete healing requires time and patience, taking several months before appreciation of the final results.
As with most cosmetic surgical procedures, complications are unlikely when performed by a skilled and competent surgeon. Complications include, but are not limited to:
* Anesthesia risks,
* Bleeding,
* Infection,
* Fluid accumulation under the skin (seroma) (which may need to be drained),
* Nerve damage,
* Poor wound healing
* Unsatisfactory scars.
Also possible is asymmetry, displacement, hardening of the scar tissue around the implant and need for revisional surgery or even removal of the implants. Also rare, but possible, are blot clots or emboli (blood clots which dislodge and travel in the blood stream to distant sights), which can be fatal.
Venodyne calf compression devices are often used for every pectoral implant surgery (as well as many other surgeries). These pressure cuffs fit over each lower leg, from the ankle to the knee, circulating every one to two minutes to reduce the pooling of blood in the lower extremities and further reduce the possibility of blood clots or emboli. In addition, smokers must stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Smoking seriously decreases bleed circulation in the skin, which increases the risks of complications and poor healing.
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