Pectus Excavatum (Funnel Chest)
Pectus excavatum correction
Filling the sternal depression with a silicone implant adapted to the defect
What is it?
Severe pectus excavatum — depression of the sternum in the central chest — is usually corrected during childhood at specialised centres. Less severe cases may not cause functional compromise but can alter the chest contour and cause social or psychological discomfort.
These cases can be substantially improved with a silicone implant adapted to the shape of the defect. The implant fills the depression, creating a more regular chest contour, and is placed through a tunnel created beneath the skin. Fat grafting (lipofilling) can improve the final result by increasing the thickness of the tissues covering the implant.
Procedures that may be combined
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about pectus excavatum and implant-based correction of the chest contour.
What is pectus excavatum?
Pectus excavatum is a chest-wall deformity in which the sternum is sunken, creating a hollow in the centre of the chest. Its depth and clinical impact vary from person to person.
Can pectus excavatum cause physical symptoms?
Mild cases may only alter the chest contour. More pronounced deformities can cause shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, palpitations, fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance, particularly when the heart is compressed or lung expansion is restricted.
Which assessments may be needed before choosing treatment?
Assessment starts with a medical history and examination of the chest. When the depression is marked or symptoms are present, tests may include a chest X-ray or CT scan, ECG, echocardiogram, pulmonary function tests or an exercise test.
When is assessment by a thoracic surgical team important?
It is particularly important when there are symptoms, a moderate or severe deformity, progression of the depression, or possible cardiac or respiratory effects. In these situations, treatment may need to elevate the sternum structurally rather than only fill the contour.
When may a silicone implant be considered?
It may be considered in less severe cases without relevant functional compromise when the main aim is to fill the depression and regularise the chest contour. Suitability must be assessed individually.
Does the implant reposition the sternum?
No. The implant fills the depression and improves the external chest contour, but it does not elevate the sternum or relieve cardiac or lung compression. Functional compromise requires assessment by a specialist chest-wall team.
How is the implant inserted?
The silicone implant is adapted to the shape of the defect and introduced through a tunnel created beneath the skin so that it fills the chest depression.
Can fat grafting be combined with the implant?
Yes. Fat grafting can increase the thickness of the tissues covering the implant, soften transitions and help create a more regular contour.
How long does surgery take and which anaesthesia is used?
The stated operating time is approximately one hour and thirty minutes, and the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
Is a hospital stay required?
A one-day hospital stay is usual, although selected cases may be performed as an outpatient procedure.
Where is the scar located?
The scar is horizontal and lies in the midline at the transition between the chest and the abdomen. Over the following months, it usually becomes closer in colour to the surrounding skin and less noticeable.
When can I return to work and sport?
Return to work is usually possible after five to seven days provided that the job does not involve exertion. Sport can generally be resumed after six weeks, according to clinical progress.
How long is a compression garment used?
A compression garment is recommended for six weeks, following the instructions provided for the individual recovery.
What are the main risks of implant-based correction?
Possible problems include swelling, bruising, seroma, haematoma, infection, bleeding, extrusion or displacement of the implant, excessive scarring and rare nerve injury. Some complications may require additional treatment or further surgery.
Is the result permanent?
The correction is intended to be long-lasting, but it cannot be guaranteed that further surgery will never be needed. Capsular contracture, infection, displacement, persistent pain or later contour changes may require surveillance or revision.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
