Can Men Have Breast Implants?


Cosmetic Surgery Enquiry

In modern society, it is not just women who feel the desire to obtain breast implants; men are now seeking out this cosmetic procedure as well. Breast implants are often obtained by men who wish to enhance the look of their pectoral muscles – an appearance naturally achieved by a significant amount of weight lifting exercises and bodybuilding.

It is not uncommon for some men to actual be incapable of defining and improving the appearance of their pectoral muscles, irrespective of how much tailored exercise they do. Therefore, these men may find that a "pec" implant is the ideal process to undergo to achieve their desired look. In addition, the implants may also be the key solution for men suffering from a disorder titled Poland's syndrome. Those who do have Poland's syndrome lack chest muscle, often on just one side. This can be rectified by the insertion of a pectoral implant,

The Pectoral Implant Procedure

Pectoral implants are not the same as regular, female breast implants. Rather than being composed of liquid substances, pectoral implants are made out of solid silicone. However, similarly to female breast implants, pectoral implants are also available in various different shapes and sizes. The shape and size used for you will be determined during your consultation and will complement your body shape as well as having the desired appearance.

In general, pectoral implant surgery takes approximately two hours to fully complete. Most often, the operation is carried out while you are under general anaesthetic, however there are some surgeons or circumstances that call for a local anaesthetic to be used instead, which tends to be complemented with a sedative.

The first step in a pectoral implant procedure is that your surgeon will make an incision either in your armpit, around your nipple or in the crease beneath your "breast". A subsequent pocket is created that the pectoral implant can be inserted into. This pocket is usually made either beneath the pectoralis major (the large chest muscle) or underneath the connective tissue that cover it. The implant is held in its position by stitches. There is often no need for you to have to get these stitches removed, as they are usually dissolvable.

The final, closing step of the pectoral implant procedure is that the wound is carefully sewn shut and covered with antiseptic dressings.

Recovery from Pectoral Implants

It is hard to say how long you will require to recover, as it is it very much dependent on the individual and their personal situation. However, usually men who have undergone the surgery will experience a mild to moderate level of discomfort for a short while immediately after the procedure. This can be eased using painkillers (these will either be prescribed or you can obtain them as over-the-counter). If you notice that the pain increases and is accompanied with odd swelling, fever, redness or trouble with breathing, then you should contact your surgeon immediately.

Your surgeon will provide you will a set of guidelines before you leave the clinic. It is important that you follow their advice strictly and carefully. Typically, you will be expected to wear a compressive garment over your chest and keep your chest elevated whenever you are lay down. You may also be advised to rest and avoid doing any strenuous activities.

Many men are able to return to work within a week of the surgery being carried out if their job doesn't involve much activity e.g. a desk job. If your job is more strenuous, then it is advisable to take a longer amount of time off – this will be specified by your surgeon prior to surgery. Either way, it is typical for you to be able to return to you normal, everyday activities about six weeks after the pectoral implant procedure.

Potential Risks Associated With Pectoral Implants

As with all types of surgery, pectoral implants also carry potential risks and complications. While these risks are relatively rare, it is still worth taking them into account when deciding whether or not pectoral implants are for you.

Possible complications that may affect you after obtaining pectoral implants include:

  • Asymmetry
  • The development of an infection
  • The implant moving and becoming displaced
  • Problems associated with the anaesthetic
  • The development of a haematoma (blood accumulation in the area, which may result in a clot)
  • The development of a seroma (accumulation of fluid in the chest)
  • Unattractive scarring
  • A numb feeling in the upper arm
  • Unsatisfactory results

Unlike with female breast implants, there is no known risk of any leakage or rupturing of the pectoral implants. This can be accounted for by their extremely firm nature.

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