Houston Plastic Surgeon's Study Offers New Hope for Men With Feminine Looking Chest

HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwire - November 29, 2007) - A new study authored by a Houston Plastic Surgeon is offering hope for men who suffer from an embarrassing problem: a feminine looking chest. Dr. Henry Mentz of the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (www.mybeautifulbody.com), one of the largest private plastic surgery practices in Texas, co-authored the study exploring a fringe procedure called "pectoral etching." The study appears in December's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® (PRS), the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

For some men, the shame of having excess breast tissue, known as mild gynecomastia, can be paralyzing. The study found that pectoral etching can be a viable option for men who want to feel more comfortable with their chest. The procedure includes targeted liposuction along the lower and outer edges of the chest muscles to create a noticeable contrast outlining the pectoral muscle. Thinning the fat pad and breast tissue under the nipple reduces fullness. The technique is similar to abdominal etching, which Dr. Mentz authored in 1993.

"Pectoral etching can be a life-altering experience for patients, many of whom have been ashamed of their upper body since childhood," said Dr. Mentz. "Many men aren't aware the procedure is a safe, effective option for them."

The study found that of the more than 200 men who had pectoral etching, only four experienced minor complications.

Data from the ASPS suggests that men are no longer shying away from plastic surgery. More than 1.1 million men had cosmetic procedures in 2006, up eight percent since 2000, according to ASPS statistics. Among men, male breast reduction is the fastest growing surgical cosmetic procedure, while nose reshaping, eyelid surgery and liposuction are the most common surgical cosmetic procedures.

For an appointment or a complimentary consultation, call the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery at (713) 799-9999.

About the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery

The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery was founded in 1996 by Dr. Christopher K. Patronella, Dr. Henry A. Mentz, III, and Dr. German Newall. Today, ACPS has seven surgeons and a highly trained and professional staff that works with thousands of patients each year to achieve their appearance goals. ACPS also features the Center for Clinical Research and Plastic Surgery Education to educate, evaluate and offer the latest and safest techniques in aesthetic plastic surgery. For more information, visit www.mybeautifulbody.com or call (713) 799-9999.

Contact Information: Contact: Dan Keeney, APR DPK Public Relations 832-467-2904