COSMETIC SURGERY PROCEDURES

 

 

FACIAL IMPLANTS

PHOTOS · DETAILS · PROCEDURE · RECOVERY · FAQs

BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS

Facial Implants 1  Facial Implants 2

Facial Implants Before and After

DETAILS

A facial implant may be an option if you want to change an hereditary trait, or correct something resulting from an injury. An implant can improve overall proportion and balance, or enhance certain features like the jaw line, chin, or cheeks.

PROCEDURE

The surgeon will make a small incision in the area where the implant will be placed. Depending on the implant’s location, the incision will be hidden inside the mouth or gum, inside the lower or upper lip, or under the chin.

A small space, or pocket, is created in the facial tissue. The surgeon inserts the implant, places it in position, then uses sutures to close the incision. The incision is covered with a bandage or special tape to hold the sutures in place and protect the incision.

The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, with or without sedation. In some cases, general anesthesia may be recommended.

RECOVERY

You can expect to have some bruising or swelling, but in most cases this will be minor and will subside in a day or two. All swelling should be reduced in 1 -2 weeks. Final results will appear in about 1 – 2 months. Most surgeons will recommend that strenuous activity and possible impacts to the implant area be avoided for up to six weeks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is a candidate for facial implants?
We have spoken of rejuvenation of the face in terms of restoring the structure of the face to a more youthful state. But what if even as a young person the patient didn’t have a strong enough chin or wanted higher cheekbones? In these cases one can use facial implants to add volume to an area that lacks it, and give the face a more balanced look. The impact of a well placed implant can be dramatic. For example, a person with a weak chin will have improved overall features with a chin implant, as it will be in better harmony with the overall facial structure.

What are the common areas of the face to get facial implants?
The areas of the face we most commonly enhance with implants are the chin and the cheekbones. Less frequent areas are the angles of the jaw and nose.

What are facial implants made of?
We use two types of implants: silicon and porex. Solid silicon implants have a long track record. None of the complaints related to breast implants have been tied to facial implants. Because they are solid they do not leak. Porex implants, as the name implies, are porous like a sponge, but solid to the touch. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, and the patient should seek information from the surgeon as to which might be best suited for them. Implants also come in various sizes and shapes. This makes it possible to fine tune the type of ‘look’ you wish to achieve. For example, in the chin, it may be possible to get a more ‘angular look’ to the whole face by using a wider chin implant.

What is involved in facial implant surgery?
Implant procedures are very well tolerated and can be done under twilight anesthesia. Incisions are well hidden. Recovery is in a matter of days and is relatively painless.

Can I get the facial implants at the same time as my facelift surgery?
Yes, it is very common to combine the two procedures. Specific examples of combination procedures include: a midface lift with a cheek implant , or a chin implant with a necklift, will not only make a person look younger, but will improve the facial structure.

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