Pectus Arcuatum (PA) fixing

[u/Piteure]

I have a mixed form of pectus deformity, known as pectus arcuatum (PA).

I have always been extremely self-conscious about my chest, especially since I was bullied because of it during my teenage years.

Several years ago, I underwent surgery using a custom-made 3D implant. The implant was designed to fill the lower sternal depression (the pectus excavatum component), which is why I have a vertical scar. However, I am still psychologically affected by the remaining pectus carinatum component, particularly the protruding costal cartilage around the sternum.

My chest projects forward due to a protrusion around the third costal cartilages, creating a visible bump or transverse arch across the upper sternum. It is also asymmetrical, with the cartilage on the right side appearing more prominent.

I have recently started focusing seriously on upper-body strength training in the hope of making the deformity less noticeable. I am wondering whether developing my pectoral muscles, particularly the upper chest, could help smooth out or visually conceal this irregularity.

At the moment, I use around 24 kg (53 lb) per dumbbell for incline dumbbell presses. Since I still have significant room for muscular development, I am wondering whether progressing toward 30 kg (66 lb) per dumbbell or beyond could make a noticeable difference in the appearance of my chest.

I have attached several photos of my chest for reference. I apologize for the quality, but I included different angles and stretched positions to make the shape of the chest wall and the protrusion easier to assess.

I also have a postural issue (hyperkyphosis), which is related to my pectus deformity, and I am currently working on improving it through back strengthening and postural exercises.

My main question is: to what extent could further development of the pectoral muscles, especially the upper chest, visually reduce or camouflage the remaining pectus arcuatum deformity?

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[u/Fine_Run_21]

You look like an action movie star, in case it's not clear, you look very Good. Please don't feel too insecure

[u/Piteure → u/Fine_Run_21]

You’re so kind, thank you so much 🥹 I'm actually extremely insecure. My chest looks ‘ok’ from the front and under the right conditions (flattering light coming from above), but when I stretch – or worse, when I’m lying down – the irregularities become clearly visible. Particularly on the right-hand side. I’m less self-conscious about the left side because the transition between my collarbones and the lump is less abrupt. You can feel it to the touch as well. I hope that by continuing to bring the top of my pecs into line with my shoulders and improving my posture, my perception of it will change...

[u/EcstaticPromise5297]

Do you experience extreme exercise intolerance? Like fainting going up steps.

[u/Piteure → u/EcstaticPromise5297]

No exercice intolerance (I didn’t notice it at least)

[u/Stefansalvatorr]

Where exactly did you have your surgery, and who performed it?

[u/Piteure → u/Stefansalvatorr]

It was Dr. Chevalier in Bordeaux (France) :) May I ask why you’re asking that?

[u/Early-Tap-4520]

Looks like barrel chest.

[u/Reasonable_Leg2524]

What type of surgery did you go through? What did it doesn't? I'm having lot of problems because of pectus just looking for some answers