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What Are Pec Implants?

What Are Pectoral Implants?

For men who perceive their pectoralis muscle as underdeveloped or asymmetrical, pec implant surgery can be an excellent way to improve the volume and overall appearance of the pecs. Whether caused by genetics or injury, silicone gel implants can give the underdeveloped chest a strong and natural-looking contour.

This article explores some of the most important questions patients have about pectoral implants, including the material they are made of, the pectoral implants procedure and benefits of pectoral augmentation surgery, and what to expect from your results. It is natural to be curious about the ins and outs of the surgery, and with the information found here, you can feel fully informed before making your decision.

The CREO Clinic’s Medical Director, Dr. Omar Tillo, is a male body contouring specialist who has performed countless successful pectoral implant surgeries over the course of his career. His experience in body contouring procedures allows him to make artful, precision enhancements to your physique while always prioritising your safety and well-being as well as high-quality outcomes.

Contact the CREO Clinic today to explore the many benefits male pectoral implants can bring.

History Of Pectoral Implant Surgery

Pectoral implants were first developed in the 1970s, initially to treat Poland’s syndrome – a congenital condition where the pectoral muscles on one side of the chest don’t develop as fully as on the other. The implants were designed to restore symmetry and reduce self-consciousness.

In the 1980s, Dr. Mel Bircoll of the Beverly Hills Medical Center began offering pectoral implants for anyone who wished to improve the contour of their chest. Since those early stages, pectoral implant technology has advanced, and the procedure is now able to provide realistic cosmetic enhancements with a muscle-like feel and appearance.

What Cosmetic Concerns Does A Pectoral Implant Procedure Treat?

Pectoral implant surgery targets asymmetrical or low-volume pecs, whether they are the result of congenital conditions like Poland’s syndrome or pectus excavatum or simply underdevelopment due to difficulty exercising. It can also address concerns over the shape of your chest by improving the curve and contour of the pectoralis muscle.

Benefits Of Male Pec Implants

Addressing chest underdevelopment can bring a host of important benefits, such as:

  • Permanent enhancement of size, contour, and overall appearance of the pecs
  • Minimal, well-disguised scarring
  • Custom sizes of pecs for a proportionate chest
  • Better comfort and appearance in tight clothing
  • A boost to confidence in your physique

What Pectoral Implants Are Made Of

At the CREO Clinic, your male pectoral implants are designed to match the size and contour you desire. If you opt for custom-made pec implants, they are measured precisely to match the measurements of your desired chest size.

All pec implants are made using medical grade silicone gel that is semi-solid, protecting it from rupturing and giving it a similar feel to real muscle.

Overview Of Pectoral Implant Surgery

The surgery inserts silicone gel implants into the pectoral muscle via an incision made in the armpit. The surgeon accesses the chest through this incision, creating a pocket between the pectoralis major and minor muscles into which the pectoral implant is carefully positioned. The incisions are then closed using dissolvable sutures.

Pec Implants Cost In London

Pectoral implants at the CREO Clinic begin from £13,900. Each and every surgery at the clinic is bespoke, which means a full cost breakdown of the surgery won’t be available until after your first consultation with Dr. Tillo.

Should you wish to spread the cost of your pectoral implant surgery over multiple instalments, our financing partner, Chrysalis Finance, provides 0% APR loans over a one-year period. Longer periods are available at varying rates.

What’s Included In The Cost

The price you are quoted after your consultation will include:

  • Your personalised treatment plan and preoperative assessment
  • Hospital fees
  • Nurse and surgeon’s fees
  • Price of custom-made implants (if applicable)
  • Compression garments
  • Anaesthetist fees and anaesthetic
  • Follow-up appointments with Dr. Tillo to monitor your progress

Not included in the above price are:

  • Chaperone services
  • Additional medical testing/scans 
  • Private prescriptions

Who’s An Ideal Candidate For Male Pec Implants?

There are a few important criteria for an ideal pectoral implant candidate:

  • Must be over the age of 18.
  • Their chest must already be fully developed.
  • Are in good psychological and physical health with a BMI of 30 or below. If you aren’t sure about your BMI, use our BMI calculator to check your suitability.
  • They are interested in enhancing the volume of their chest to create better contour or to correct acquired or congenital asymmetries.
  • Has clear, realistic expectations about the benefits and limitations of pectoral implants.

What To Expect

Consultation

During your initial consultation, Dr. Tillo will perform an examination of your chest in order to assess your aesthetic concerns and begin creating a personalised treatment plan. He will ensure you understand the procedure and ask you questions about your expectations – this is to check that they are realistic and that pectoral implant surgery is suitable for your needs.

You will also be asked questions regarding your health, such as which regular medications you take, your medical history, and any procedures you have undergone in the past. This will allow him to assess your medical fitness for surgery.

Surgery Preparation

In the lead-up to your surgery, there are some important steps you will need to follow in your preparation:

  • Abstain from smoking/vaping – Nicotine consumption restricts blood vessels and can prevent optimal wound healing. You should stop smoking at least four weeks before the procedure.
  • Reduce alcohol consumption – In order to help your body heal post-surgery, it is best to stop binge drinking alcohol for at least two weeks before your pec implant surgery.
  • Prepare the home – After any surgery, a cosy home is crucial for keeping you comfortable throughout your recovery.

Custom-Made Pec Implants

If you would prefer custom-made pectoral implants, there is a slightly longer process that requires a few extra steps:

  • Consultation – First, you will have an initial consultation with Dr. Tillo, who can judge your eligibility for custom pectoral implants. If you are suitable, Dr. Tillo will immediately refer you for a CT scan of your chest.
  • CT scan – After the scanning is performed, Dr. Tillo reviews it and sends it to the manufacturer (AnatomikModelling)
  • Design – The manufacturer generates a 3D model of the patient’s chest, then builds a pectoral implant design to create greater volume in the chest. The design process should take around 2 weeks.
  • Clinical validation of design – The design is returned to Dr. Tillo, who will discuss this with you and add modifications where necessary – these will be sent to the manufacturer, who will revise the design. Once the final designs are agreed, the pectoral implants will be manufactured. The validation process can take between 1-6 weeks, depending on the design itself.
  • Manufacturing – Once the approved design is sent to the manufacturer, it is created, packaged up, and shipped to the CREO Clinic. This usually takes between 8-12 weeks.

In general, the whole process of ordering custom-made pectoral implants will take between 12 weeks and six months.

Pectoral Implant Procedure

Pectoral implant surgery typically takes approximately two hours under general anaesthetic and requires an experienced and skilful hand. Dr. Tillo makes an incision along the armpit and creates a pocket between the pectoralis minor and the pectoralis major. The implants are settled in position between these muscles, and the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches.

Recovery Process

Some swelling and tightness in the chest after surgery is normal, and this should dissipate over the first week. The majority of patients are able to return to office work and other light activities after 1-2 weeks. However, you will need to avoid strenuous exercise and activities for at least six weeks after your surgery.

When Will I Notice Pectoral Implant Results?

The increase in the volume of your pectoralis muscle will be visible immediately after the surgery, but it should take around six months for you to see the final results – this is when any residual swelling will have subsided, and the pectoral implants will have assumed their final position.

Optional Complementary Procedures

Gynecomastia surgery

Men who have overdeveloped breast tissue or ‘man boobs’ due to hormonal imbalances or drug/steroid use may wish to remove the excess tissue through gynecomastia reduction. This plastic surgery can be performed in unison with pectoral implants so as to simultaneously reduce excess tissue in the chest muscles and also give the chest a more muscular, defined look.

Liposuction 

If there are excess fat pockets or tissue in the chest, liposuction can be performed to remove stubborn fat deposits and allow for greater contour once your pectoral implants are put into place. This plastic surgery can enhance the appearance of the chest muscles overall by creating more definition.

How Do Male Pec Implants Differ From Female Breast Implants?

There are a few important differences between male pectoral implants and female breast implants, but the most important differences are the size, shape, and feel of the pectoral implants themselves. Female breast implants are rounder, created to more typically female proportions, and unlike male implants, the silicone gel is liquid, allowing for a softer, more natural feel.

Pec Implant FAQs

Will I have a visible scar after getting pectoral implant surgery?

As with any procedure requiring incisions, pec implant surgery leaves some scarring. However, the scars are disguised within the natural contour of the armpit – an area that is usually hidden from view under clothing.n

How long do pec implants last?

Provided they do not rupture, there are no time limitations on your pectoral implants. However, the majority of patients have their implants removed or replaced after 10-20 years.nnIf your results have changed over time, or you have developed a hardening of scar tissue around the pectoral implants (capsular contracture), you should consult Dr. Tillo so he can assess your situation.n

What are the risks associated with pectoral implants?

All surgeries carry some risk, and pectoral implant surgery is no different in that respect. While they remain unlikely, there are some potential risks to be aware of:nnDisplacement of pectoral implantsnHaematoma – Blood that has pooled under the skin post-surgery. This can cause pain, bruising, and inflammation.nDamage to nervesnSeroma – Fluid that has collected under the skin after surgerynScarringnCapsular contracture – Hardening of scar tissue around the implant can cause discomfort and necessitate replacement implantn

When can I work out after undergoing pectoral implant surgery?

Most patients find they can return to lower body exercise immediately but will need to avoid strenuous exercise – particularly exercise that stresses the pectoral muscles – for at least six weeks after the surgery. n

Will I need to wear a compression garment after pectoral implant surgery?

You will need to wear your compression garment for the full six weeks of your recovery from pectoral implant surgery. This will keep swelling to a minimum and improve wound healing.n

What happens if I don’t like the results of my pec implants?

Any patient who has undergone cosmetic surgery can change their mind about the way it looks. If you are unhappy with the results of your pectoral implants, you can book a consultation with Dr. Tillo, and together, you can assess the situation and create a plan either for adjustment, replacement, or removal.n

Contact CREO Clinic Today To Schedule A Consultation

To understand the many benefits a pectoral implant can bring you, book a consultation today with the CREO Clinic for your first consultation with Dr. Omar Tillo. In Dr. Tillo’s care, you can be sure you are in the hands of a highly experienced body contouring surgeon – one whose consistently excellent results are matched only by his conscientious approach to safety and patient care.