Male Pectoral Implants – “Pec” Implants
Male chest enhancement otherwise known as "Pec" implants are now more popular than ever. Increasing numbers of men are choosing to enhance their physiques, 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, commonly referred to as "pec" implants, 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 reason to require additional surgery in the future. Frequently liposculpture of the love handles, abdomen, waist and back or any combination thereof is performed to further enhance the overall shape and contour of the upper torso.
These implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. A consultation and physical examination is needed to determine the most appropriate size and shape for each individual. Generally, scars are easily hidden in the armpit area 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 complicating pre-existing medical conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, skin/connective tissue disorders, etc.
THE CONSULTATION
The initial consultation is extremely important to review the patient's medical history, goals and expectations, as well as build mutual trust and rapport. Before and after photos are reviewed. The procedure is carefully explained and the alternatives discussed. A complete evaluation and physical examination is performed for each individual patient to insure that expectations can be met as well as to determine the best choice of procedures. The size and shape of the implants to be used are next determined. The surgical plan as well as the incisions/scar placement are reviewed. It is important to understand that every effort is made to accomplish the desired set of goals, however, no guarantees as to the exact size, projection and contour of the male chest can be made by any surgeon.
Prospective patients are encouraged to speak with previous patients about their surgery and results. Dr. Gershenbaum and his staff are always available for questions. Following the initial consultation and after appropriate time for reflection and decision making, an appointment is scheduled for routine preparation and informed consent. Additional questions and concerns may also be addressed. Routine blood analysis and medical clearance is generally required prior to surgery.
THE OPERATION
This surgical procedure is generally performed in our state of the art out patient facility under general anesthesia. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation may also be used in certain circumstances. This surgical procedure generally takes approximately one and one half hours to perform. The surgical plan, including implant placement and lines of incisions, is outlined prior to surgery. After speaking with the anesthetist/anesthesiologist, the patient is brought to the operating room. After asleep, local nerve blocks combined with medication that shrinks blood vessels and capillaries to reduce bleeding are instilled. An incision is made, approximately 4 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 any needed adjustments in implant placement are made. Prior to closure, a long acting anesthetic is poured around the implants, which dramatically reduces post operative discomfort. The incision is closed with sutures below the level of the skin to avoid cross hatching and suture marks. Liposculpture, or any other procedures, if planned, are next performed. At the conclusion of surgery a light dressing and elastic compression garment is applied over the surgical area.
THE RECOVERY PERIOD (POST OPERATIVELY)
COMPLICATIONS
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 and 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. At Aventura Center for Cosmetic Surgery, Venodyne calf compression devices are used for every pectoral implant surgery (as well as many other surgeries). Venodynes are pressure cuffs that 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.
