Muscle implants have taken off in popularity in recent years. Implants can dramatically change your physique and help you reach aesthetic goals that may be unobtainable through exercise alone. However, implants do carry some inherent risks, and therefore may not be suitable for every individual. Below, we will provide a brief overview of muscle implants in general as well as common reasons people seek implants to help you decide if they are right for you.
A Brief Overview
Muscle implants are implants that shape or enlarge muscles in various parts of the body. They are made with a specialized silicone gel that mimics the look and feel of natural muscles. While you will have some scarring after having implants inserted, it is typically minimal and your muscles should look natural.
Depending on your needs and goals, muscle implants can be inserted in a wide variety of areas. Common areas include the pectoral region, shoulders, biceps, triceps, buttocks, hips, and calves.
Muscle implants are permanent, however, some issues can occur over months to years. Some of the more common long-term complications are implant displacement, capsular contracture, and infection. Fortunately, these complications are relatively rare and you can have your muscle implants last the rest of your life without issue.
Why Do People Get Muscle Implants?
Aesthetic Reasons
Your diet and exercise habits play a major role in your physique. Weight training alone can build a lot of muscle, but genetics do play a role in terms of muscle composition. Even with proper technique and rigorous discipline, it is not uncommon for people to hit fitness plateaus.
It can be very frustrating to be unable to achieve the physique you want, even with vigorous training, which is where muscle implants come in. Muscle implants can help add tone and definition to areas like the calves, chest, shoulders, and buttock if you’re unable to continue building muscle through weight training alone. If you hit a fitness plateau, muscle implants may be right for you.
Reconstructive Reasons
In a Men’s Health article, one surgeon estimated that 35% of his patients seek muscle implants for reconstructive purposes. Surgical complications can result in damage to the muscles, causing a weak physique. Medical conditions – like Poland Syndrome – can cause the chest muscle to be underdeveloped. There are numerous other diseases that cause muscle atrophy which can be amendable to implant correction.
Strategically placed implants can correct physical deformities, resulting in improved self-esteem and self-image. If you have a physical condition that affects your physique, talk to your general practitioner about muscle implants to see if they can refer you to a qualified plastic surgeon in your area.
While chest implants are not commonly covered by insurance, they may be if you’re seeking implants for medical conditions or reconstructive surgery. It is worth calling your insurance provider to ask about possible coverage.
Should Anyone Avoid Muscle Implants?
You need to be in good health prior to undergoing any surgery. Any chronic health conditions could potentially make you a poor candidate for muscle implants, as can certain lifestyle choices like tobacco use. Prior to getting cleared for surgery, you will undergo an extensive medical evaluation to ensure surgery is safe for you.
Complications, while rare, can include things like blood clotting, nerve damage, and infection. Implants can also become dislodged, resulting in an asymmetrical appearance.
That being said, most healthy adults can safely undergo muscle implant surgery, but you should carefully consider whether it’s right for you. Every procedure carries inherent risks, and you should only undergo surgery if you feel the benefits will outweigh the risks. While the majority of people who receive muscle implants end up happy with the final results, no single procedure is right for every patient.
The Bottom Line
This procedure can help you overcome fitness plateaus and correct physical deformities caused by accidents and medical conditions. If you are in good health, in most cases you can safely undergo surgery. Implants can help you achieve aesthetic goals and feel better about yourself and your body.
Ready to get started? Leif Rogers, MD is an Ivy League-educated, board-certified plastic surgeon and a standing member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. If you’re considering a muscle implant procedure, get in touch with his team to schedule a consultation.
