Male Pectoral Implants

Female breast surgery has been popular for many years. Augmentations, reductions, and lifts are common, successful and very satisfying for the patients. Not surprisingly, many men also wonder about the possibility of chest enhancement through plastic surgery.

The fact is that some body types do not achieve chest muscle tone and definition as easily as others. Even with exercise, some men (and women) will not be able to see the desired results simply from working out the chest area. At North Valley Plastic Surgery, our pectoral implant procedure is designed to increase the chest size and shape by inserting implants made of solid silicone under the real muscle.

In other instances, underdevelopment of the muscles in the chest can be a result of a growth defect or injury. For these individuals, pectoral implants can create or recreate a natural looking chest area. Like many other cosmetic enhancements, this procedure gives men a chance to aesthetically enhance an area of the body through surgery when no other alternatives are available or desirable.

What are some of the most common benefits of this surgery?

Male pectoral implants are designed to define and shape the chest area. In men who cannot achieve desired results through exercise, this surgery can give the existing muscles a toned, enhanced look. For patients with congenital defects or loss of muscle in an accident or injury, the pectoral implant procedure can often reproduce a natural, even, and symmetrical chest area. Pectoral implants may help build self-confidence in those who were once embarrassed by their appearance. Our patients often comment that their result is the athletic, natural appearance, of a more well-proportioned torso.

What will happen at the initial consultation?

During the consultation, you and your physician will discuss the changes that you would like to make in your appearance. We will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and its risks, benefits, and indications. We will also explain the kind of anesthesia required, surgical facility, and costs. Your physician will begin with a complete medical history and examine your chest area. He may also take photos, and give you specific instructions preparing for surgery, including guidelines for eating and drinking, smoking and taking or avoiding vitamins, supplements and medications.

Your physician will also discuss the different shapes and sizes of pectoral implants that are available. Some patients may choose pre-shaped implants. Others, especially those with an accident or birth defect, may choose to have a custom implant made. This may delay the surgery. It generally takes 6-8 weeks to create the implant based on a mold of the chest area. In some cases, your physician may choose to take a standard implant, and carve it into the desired size and shape. We will help you pick out the implant that is best for the shape and size of your muscles. The goal is an implant that will appear as natural and realistic as possible.

How is pectoral implant surgery performed?

Your physician will most often begin pectoral implant surgery by making a small incision in the armpit, and then insert the implant into a precisely constructed pocket underneath your pectoralis muscle. The incisions are then sutured and the surgery is complete. The implants are held in place by the overlying chest muscle or by sutures that are temporarily visible through the skin.