Bodybuilding enhances the size and tone of muscles in both men and women, but sometimes the practice of weight lifting and the often associated use of steroids can cause unwanted results in the physical appearance. Body builders are increasingly looking toward cosmetic surgery as a way to accentuate their muscles, alter breast size, and correct the effects of supplements or genetics on fat tissues. This article will discuss some of the most frequently performed procedures.
Gynecomastia (male breast reduction)
It is believed that 40-60% of men suffer from gynecomastia, the existence of unwanted fat deposits in the chest area, which resemble woman-like breasts. A cosmetic surgery procedure can be performed to remove the excess glandular tissue and restore the chest area to its former shape. A portion of cases of gynecomastia are believed to be caused by anabolic steroid usage by bodybuilding men. Many bodybuilders that develop gynecomastia are concerned that the condition will disrupt the masculine image they are portraying. It is highly recommended that bodybuilders with gynecomastia that are using steroids stop their use of those drugs first to determine if they are the cause of the condition. If they are, then the body builder may choose to stop using these drugs. If he still wishes to use them, a cosmetic surgeon can remove the fatty tissue through a breast reduction surgery. However, if the patient continues usage of steroids after gynecomastic surgery, they must be aware that the condition may return.
The side effects associated with gynecomastia surgery are typical of most surgeries and include bruising, swelling, soreness and numbness. A tight fitting garment must be worn over the torso for 3-6 weeks to ensure that the chest muscles heal properly. There are a few different ways the surgery is carried out based on the surgeon performing the procedure, so it is best to do some research of your own before going to see a cosmetic surgeon.
Female Breast implants
Although male bodybuilders may accumulate unwanted fat in their chest area, female bodybuilders often deal with the opposite problem. The intensive weight lifting practices of body builders often create a lack of breasts for females. Breast implants are an option for women in the body building world that wish to keep their muscles strong and toned, but also wish to keep their feminine physique. The implants are usually placed beneath the muscle, and do not interfere with training once the area is completely healed. Because judges at body building competitions are increasingly looking to distinguish male and female competitors from one another, many women in the sport feel the need to accentuate and build their feminine qualities to set them apart from the rest of the competition. Breast augmentation is one way for female bodybuilders to accomplish this.
Other surgeries available for body builders
In addition to surgeries that alter the chest region, bodybuilders are increasingly looking at the services cosmetic surgeons provide to enhance other regions of the body as well. These procedures include calf implants, abdominal etching, and buttock surgery. All of these procedures increase the sculptured appearance of the patient, something highly valued in the body building community and at competitions.
There are many resources on the web that can help you in your decision. As with all cosmetic surgery, after you have done the proper research, you should have a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon before making any decisions about surgery.
