Pectoral Implants
Pectoral implants are soft solid silicone implants. The pectoralis major muscles, the main chest muscles, do not always respond to exercise, even if a man is strong and exercises strenuously. Implants are a way to create the bulky muscle look that exercise will not.
Occasionally the issue is a complete lack of development of the pectoralis major muscle on one side of the chest. This is a different problem. See our blog on Poland’s syndrome to learn about this.
Pectoral muscle implants come in many different off-the-shelf shapes and sizes. One of the most common shapes is rectangular. This shape is more likely to stay in position than oval shaped implants which turn more readily.
The surgery is done with general anesthesia. An incision is made about an inch below the crease of the axilla (arm pit) but still in the hair-bearing under arm skin. Through this incision the outer edge of the pectoralis major muscle is lifted, the muscle attachments to the ribs and breast bone separated, the implant is put in through a sterile funnel and then secured.
Implants usually need to be carved a bit because every person has different anatomy. The goal is for the implant to sit high on the chest and close to the breast bone following the pectoral muscles natural shape.
Drains are not usually needed. There is often pain for several days but once the muscles adapt to the implant, pain subsides.
A compression vest is worn to reduce swelling and to support the implant. No upper body exercise including running, swimming or upper body weight lifting can be done for 6 to 8 weeks but walking is fine a few days after surgery.
The main risk of this or any implant surgery is that the final result needs to be revised or the implant shifts in its position.
To find out more about pectoral implants call us at 404-941-3200 or email us from this website.