Pectoral Implants

Female breast enhancement has been a very popular plastic surgery procedure for quite some time. It is no wonder that many men have also become interested in the possibilities of chest enhancement. Male pectoral implants are designed to define and shape the chest. For men who are unable achieve their desired results through exercise, this surgery can give their existing muscles a toned, enhanced look. For men with congenital defects or loss of shape or muscle due to accident or injury, this implant procedure can often reproduce a natural, symmetrical chest area.

The Implants

Pectoral implants are somewhat similar to breast implants but they differ slightly. Pectoral implants are made of silicone, but they are solid masses; they are not filled with saline or any other solution like breast implants. These implants can be custom made to fit the exact contours of the patients existing muscles. The implant is soft yet solid enough that it will add shape and definition to the existing muscles. The implant is placed directly under the existing chest muscles so that it can enhance the patient's natural features.

The Procedure

Most surgeons will use an endoscopic procedure when inserting the pectoral implants. This procedure starts with a small incision in the armpit. The surgeon will then insert an endoscope or a small, thin tube with a camera attached to the end of it. This instrument is used to guide the implant from the incision to the chest area. The endoscope will be used to aid the surgeon in sliding the implant from the point of incision to its place under the muscle of the chest.

Will It Hurt?

The surgery will most likely be performed under a general anesthesia and should take anywhere from 1 and a half to 2 hours but some endoscopic procedures can take longer. These surgeries are usually performed on an outpatient basis, so patients will be able to return home the same day as the surgery.

Endoscopic procedures require smaller incisions so they cut down on the bleeding as well as the bruising and swelling. Patients will experience pain and discomfort associated with bruising and swelling but this should only last for a few weeks. Most patients will be wrapped in elastic bandages or be given a vest to reduce the swelling after the surgery.

Risks

Like any surgical procedure, there are several risks associated with pectoral implant surgery.

All of these risks are rare and completely treatable. Discussing each with your surgeon before your procedure will ensure that your implant procedure will be as successful as possible.

Results

Full recovery for pectoral implant patients could take as long as six weeks, but most men have been able to resume their normal activities within a month. Your surgeon will take every precaution to make your scars as inconspicuous as possible, but it is important to remember that the scars will be permanent. They will start out very lumpy, itchy and red, but eventually fade to thin white lines. Pectoral implants are permanent and rarely require more than one procedure to acquire the desired results. Most men have been completely happy with their pectoral implants.

Costs

Pectoral implant surgery can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000. Prices will be dependent on the area in which you live, the surgeon that performs the procedure and the clinic or hospital in which it is performed. Price will also depend on the extent of your surgery and whether or not the implant procedure is being performed in conjunction with any other plastic surgery procedures.