Cosmetic surgery for a more muscular looking chest

Procedure Summary

Body implants have been a part of reconstructive plastic surgery since the late 1950s. Breast implants have been used to help women who have lost a breast due to a mastectomy, or require cosmetic breast enhancement, since the 1960s. It is only relatively recently that increasing numbers of men have been taking advantage of male breast implant surgery to improve the appearance of their chest area.

What can pectoral implants do for you?

Men who cannot achieve the desirable, muscular appearance of a well-toned torso through exercise, those with congenital defects or anyone that has lost muscle in an accident or injury, can achieve a natural, muscular looking chest through a plastic surgery pectoral implant procedure.

Pectoral implant surgery increases chest size and shape by inserting silicone implants under the actual muscle, so it is real muscle that can be seen, and felt, beneath the skin. “I wanted a bigger chest,” said one patient, “but not one the looked artificial. After discussing the procedure, and seeing examples of what could be achieved, I went ahead with the surgery. The results are terrific. Perfectly natural, and perfectly proportioned.”

As well as the physical benefits, pectoral implants can help to build self-confidence in men who were embarrassed by their appearance. However, you should bear in mind that, although most men undergo pectoral implant surgery because they think their chest looks small, this may be due to the natural structure of your body rather than your chest muscles. Your suitability for surgery should be thoroughly discussed during your initial consultation with the surgeon.

Undergoing a male breast implant procedure

If pectoral implant plastic surgery is considered to be the best option, your surgeon will discuss the different shapes and sizes of pectoral implants that are available. Your surgeon will advise you on the one that most suits the shape and size of your muscles. If there are specific considerations, such as those caused by an accident or birth defect, you may choose to have a custom-made implant.

If you regularly work out, it is wise to stop 1-2 weeks prior to surgery. If you continue to work out up to the date of your surgery the post-operative discomfort is likely to be greater.

The surgery will take place under general or local anaesthetic and the treatment can take up to two hours per implant. The surgeon will make two small incisions in the armpit. An edoscope is then used to open up a small cavity beneath the pectoral muscle. Unlike the female breast implant procedure, the muscle is not separated from its attachments to the rib cage or breast bone. The implant is then carefully positioned under the muscle. It will be secured in place by the chest muscles or by stitches. The incisions are then sutured.

After surgery, you will probably experience some discomfort. Most patients will need to wear an elastic bandage to speed up healing and reduce swelling. However, all soreness and bruising should fade within a week or so. Complete recovery can sometimes take as long as six weeks, though it is most common to be able to resume normal, everyday activities 10 to 14 days after the procedure,

As one pectoral implant recipient commented, “I was advised to take it easy for the first few days and wear an elastic ‘vest’ to reduce the swelling. This was an uncomfortable time, especially trying to sleep at night. Then, after a week things suddenly improved, and a week after that I felt fine – and looked super!”

As with all surgery, there are potential risks. These can include infection, blood loss, fluid collection, movement of the implant or scarring. It is essential to follow the advice of your practitioner after the procedure. This will make the outcome as successful as possible and reduce the risk of complications

Who should carry out pectoral implant surgery?

Male breast implant cosmetic surgery should only be perfumed by a surgeon with relevant skills and experience in an establishment registered with the Healthcare Commission (in England). As plastic surgeons tend to specialise in particular procedures, it is important to find a surgeon who has expertise in performing this type of surgery.

Prices for pectoral implant surgery can range from £4,000 to £6,000, depending on the specific requirements of the procedure. If this is something that you are considering, you can discuss all of the issues mentioned here in greater depth during a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon.

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