A little known procedure is now helping men achieve a more defined chest without implants, according to a new study in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Known as pectoral etching, 400 men underwent the procedure in 2006—a 99 percent increase from 2005.

“Although not common, requests for pectoral etching are increasing slowly. Many men simply don’t know the procedure is even out there, let alone that it’s a safe, effective option for them,” said Dr. Henry Mentz, co-author of the study.

The Procedure
The procedure involves the use of liposuction to remove fat around the bottom and outer edges of the pectoral muscles, creating a kind of outline that defines the muscles by way of contrast.

Pectoral etching has some benefits over implants, including:

- Virtually no scarring
- Potential rejection is not an issue
- Permanent results

The procedure is also relatively safe. Only four of more than 200 men in the study experienced some complication, and study authors said those complications were minor.

Ideal candidates for pectoral etching include men with excess breast tissue, men who have lost a significant amount of weight, and male athletes who work out and eat healthy but still cannot create the definition they desire.

“Pectoral etching can be a life-altering experience for patients. For 74 years, one patient wouldn’t remove his shirt in public. Last year he proudly spent his vacation on the beach in Hawaii,” said Dr. Mentz.

(Source: ASPS)

Interested in learning more? Contact a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more about pectoral etching.