Some men are unable to achieve the desired pectoral muscles they desire without the help of pectoral augmentation. There are a variety of reasons that men may choose to undergo surgical pectoral augmentation, including genetic problems or injuries that cause the chest to appear abnormal. In many cases, however, a pectoral augmentation is merely a way to improve the appearance of the chest when the muscle mass is unresponsive to exercise. Pectoral augmentation using implants will enhance the bulk and projection of pectoral muscles, but will not improve definition.

A pectoral augmentation is an outpatient surgery, meaning patients are allowed to return home the day of the procedure. It is highly recommended that pectoral augmentation patients refrain from working out for 1-2 weeks prior to surgery, in order to shorten the amount of recovery time required. Surgical pectoral augmentation is performed under general anesthesia or very heavy sedation. A small incision is made in the armpit and an endoscope is used to create a cavity under the pectoralis muscle. (Unlike in a breast augmentation, a pectoral augmentation does not require that the chest muscle be separated from its attachments to the breastbone or rib cage.) A solid silicone implant is then inserted into the pocket under the muscle tissue.

The implants used in pectoral augmentation must be carved to fit the specific measurements of each patient, which are taken prior to surgery. It is very important to have a surgeon skilled in pectoral augmentation so that the implants will be the appropriate size and shape and will meet the postoperative expectations of the patient. Pectoral augmentation implants are soft, flexible, and durable, and have been shown not to cause diseases.

After the pectoral augmentation implant is positioned properly, the incision is sutured closed and a small dressing is placed under the arm to promote healing. Pectoral augmentation patients are normally permitted to return home very shortly after the procedure is performed. No heavy lifting or aerobic exercise is allowed for the first 3-4 week following the pectoral augmentation, although gentle exercise will help retain a full and comfortable range of motion in the arms. Within one month, the scars should be almost invisible, and most pectoral augmentation patients will be able to return to full pectoral muscular activity.

Individuals who chose to have pectoral augmentation should be aware that the procedure is not suitable as a replacement for exercise-the results of a pectoral augmentation are limited to an increase in mass, without providing definition. To discuss the potential benefits of a pectoral augmentation, consult a plastic surgeon that has experience with this particular procedure.