Add shape, size, and definition to your chest when traditional exercise can’t do the job.
These days, women aren’t the only ones concerned with the size and appearance of their chests. Pectoral implants cosmetic procedures for men are ideal for patients who want to add shape and size to their chest area when other methods of exercise, weightlifting or diet have not produced the results desired. Men who wish to improve their physical appearance and achieve more definition will be very happy with getting pectoral implants.
Pectoral Implants for Men
Genetics and other conditions may prevent you from getting “great pecs” which is typically the look that many bodybuilders strive to achieve. Not every type of DNA is cut out to become a bodybuilder or to allocate the time, dedication and supplementation required to get those dramatic pectoral cuts. The pectorals are really the focal point to other important physical attributes in a man’s figure, such as delts, abs and shoulders. The pec implants can give you more shape, thickness and fullness.
Other reasons men may decide on this plastic surgery include illness or injuries associated with the chest area to bring back the physique to a normal appearance. Some people also refer to these as “breast implants for men” or male chest implants. No matter what it is called, this is becoming a more popular surgery as more men seek to improve their confidence levels, appearance and health.
Commonly combined male pec implant surgeries
First of all, there is a misconception that the silicone used in pec implants is like those used in female patients. It is not. The silicone used in male patients is a soft, yet solid material that is similar to athletic mouth guards or cardiac pacemakers; therefore it is more indestructible and won’t break or leak.
Some men combine the chest implant surgery with liposuction for even greater results. This is also known as pectoral etching, which can be done in conjunction with the implants. The surgeon uses a liposuction tool to trace along the outer and lower edges of the chest muscles, leaving a modest pad of fat to give the pecs the desired “bulk” that many men seek.
Because there are often fat stores around the chest area, having those extra pockets removed can be beneficial before the implants are installed. This will give the patients even more definition in the chest area. Some men may also like to get the tummy tuck at the same time, which is also commonly done through liposuction. Needs vary for every individual, so it’s best to discuss the options with the plastic surgeon and address your main focal points of cosmetic consideration.
Pectoral implant techniques
Dr. Agullo will discuss the specific techniques that will be necessary for your chest implants during the consultation. Incisions are made in the armpit region of each side and the silicone implants are then inserted through the incisions. In contrast to female implants, the male pectoral augmentation uses a solid elastomer implant that comes in different shapes and sizes, depending on the individual’s preferences. It rises on top of the chest area to look like the patient’s own muscles.
Using an endoscope, a small hole is placed just under the pectoral muscle. This does not separate the muscle itself or divide it from its position on the breastbone and ribcage. The solid silastic material is then inserted, depending on the size and shape of the man’s physique.
The surgeon will then close the incisions with a layered suture around the chest area and on the skin. This technique minimizes bruising while maximizing healing performance. The silicone implant will feel snug and tight similar to the chest muscles of a bodybuilder. Scars will be barely noticeable since they are strategically placed in the armpit with minimal detection.
Types of pectoral implants
During a consultation, Dr. Frank Agullo may give you different ‘sizers’ to visualize the chest augmentation. Dr. Agullo will listen to your requests and concerns to help you determine the objectives you wish to achieve with your implants.
The main types of implant for men are a durable silicone. The implant is flexible, soft, smooth, and hard to the touch, just as a man’s chest muscles should be. Unlike silicone or saline implants for women, there is no danger of rupturing the fabrication of the male pectoral silicone implants.
Conscious Sedation vs. General Anesthesia
You will have a choice between conscious sedation, which implies some cognition, versus general anesthesia of having zero awareness while the pectoral surgery is completed. IV conscious sedation yields faster recovery with less likeliness of nausea, vomiting, headaches and is more affordable than general anesthesia.
Although this is entirely a personal preference, many male patients prefer to be completely under. The surgery generally takes two hours. We have the El Paso area’s very best board certified anesthesiologist on our team. You can discuss any concerns with Dr. Frank Agullo during the consultation.
Preparing for and completing surgery
The pectoral implant cosmetic enhancement takes approximately two hours. As described above, it can be performed with either a general anesthesia or through intravenous sedation. After the surgeon makes the incision through your armpit to create a pocket just underneath the pectoralis major, which is the larger of the two chest muscles, the implant will be inserted in the pocket. Even though it sounds easy enough, it’s still important to prepare for surgery by:
- Lining up a friend to bring you to and from the surgery. You won’t be able to drive after undergoing anesthesia, even for several days thereafter.
- Bring your paperwork and ID on the day of your procedure.
- Don’t eat or drink after midnight on the day before.
- Avoid using any lotions or shaving cream on your chest, arms, etc. since it interferes with the procedure and recovery.
- Quit smoking at least two weeks in advance to avoid the chance of blood clots, strokes or any complications.
- Wear a loose button-up shirt instead of a t-shirt or anything that needs to slip on over your head. Raising your arms may be tender.
Pectoral augmentation for men in El Paso should be done at a certified surgical facility or hospital. Dr. Frank Agullo operates his practice and is double board certified for peace of mind and high emphasis on skill and knowledge of how to insert chest implants for men.
Recovery from pectoral surgery
Most patients will have to wear an elastic vest or bandage after their pectoral surgery to reduce the swelling. However, patients may experience a moderate amount of pain for at least a week until the soreness subsides. It will be important to get a lot of rest, adequate hydration and not to lift anything or overexert. You will not be able to exercise for at least six weeks. You may be prescribed with pain medication but aspirin should not be taken as it can lead to blood clots. And by the second week following the procedure, you will be feeling better and may be able to return to work and many normal activities.
Full recovery from chest implant surgery can take up to six weeks.
What are the risks to consider?
Although rare, sometimes there are complications that may occur. Many of these are minor, especially if done by a qualified surgeon and anesthesiologist. Dr. Frank Agullo is a board certified plastic surgeon who has been practicing for 30 years.
The silicone implants used for male pectoral implants do not carry a risk of leaking or breaking because the silicone is made of a different substance that is soft, yet solid and not filled with liquid such as those of female breast implants.
However, any type of surgery comes with risk of complications, such as bruising, accumulation of blood underneath the skin or bleeding from the cut tissues. It is very rare that extensive bleeding would occur. These risks are something to consider (although unlikely):
- Implant displacement that would need corrective surgery
- Asymmetry
- Complications from anesthesia
- Infection
- Fluid under the skin (seroma)
- Scarring
- Numbness of the upper or inner arm
- Dissatisfaction of the look or feeling of the implants
It is very important not to smoke cigarettes, as this increases the chance of improper healing, crusting, scabbing, poor circulation and blood clots.
Cost of pectoral implants
Pricing varies depending on the extent of the treatment or surgery. You can see a list of the approximate prices of each procedure on our current fee schedule. Generally speaking, cosmetic plastic surgery is considered “elective” and is not covered by most insurance plans. The prices listed on our fee schedule represent the minimum cost of the procedures, including anesthesia and surgical facility fees, medical tests, garments, and recovery products. The cost of prescription medications, however, is not included. The exact price of each procedure can only be determined after a thorough consultation. All fees must be paid in full prior to the scheduled treatment.
Dr. Frank Agullo and his team are members of The American Society of Plastic Surgery. Your surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility and can provide references, before and after pictures and many innovations that will help your pectoral implant surgery go smoothly so that you’ll be back to your normal self in no time, except looking better than you ever imagined!
#HappyIsBeautiful
Schedule a risk-free evaluation with Dr. Frank Agullo today.
