Designed to define and shape the chest area in men who cannot achieve desired results through exercise, who were born with congenital defects, or who have lost their pectoral muscles through accident or injury, pectoral implant surgery, also known as pectoral augmentation or pec augmentation, is used to create or recreate a natural looking chest area through the insertion of solid silicone implants.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, pectoral implants have increased in popularity a whopping 99% since the year 2000. Taking one to two hours to complete and usually performed under general anesthesia, pectoral implant surgery begins when the surgeon makes a small incision in the armpit. With or without the aid of an endoscope, the surgeon then places the implants under the pectoral muscle. The implants are held in place by the chest muscle or by temporarily visible sutures. Although some surgeons do not apply incision dressings or drains after the surgery, almost every patient is given an elastic bandage or vest to wear in order to reduce swelling. Pectoral implants can also be combined with liposuction if necessary.

Following surgery, mild to moderate pain, soreness, bruising and swelling is to be expected, although these symptoms begin to lessen within about a week. Pain medication is also prescribed in order to ease discomfort. Although most individuals will be able to resume normal, everyday activities within about two weeks, full recovery may take as long as six weeks.

Pectoral implant surgery carries risk of extensive bleeding and infection. Another potential complication is implant displacement, when the implant slips out of place after the procedure, requiring additional surgery. On rare occasions, the body will reject the implants. When this occurs, the implants must be permanently removed from the body. Unlike female breast implant surgery which uses liquid silicone, pectoral implants do not carry the risk of breaking or leaking.

Although the cost varies depending upon the severity of the surgery as well as other factors, according to infoplasticsurgery.com, a website devoted to providing up-to-date information on cosmetic surgery procedures, the average cost of pectoral implant surgery is $6,000 to $7,000.

Pectoral implants can greatly improve the look of the chest, but they do not affect the function of the muscles. For more information on pectoral implants, consult your plastic surgeon.