Facial Implants
Facial implants are surgical devices that enhance and augment the natural contours of the cheek, chin, and jaw. They are typically made from materials like silicone, which are biocompatible and safe for long-term use. Facial implants enhance the face's natural contours, providing a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Facial implants also restore facial shape after trauma or disease (such as cancer). The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation and takes about one to two hours. The procedure is crafted to the patient's unique needs. After the procedure, patients may experience some swelling and discomfort, but this typically resolves within a few days.
What are facial implants?
Presently, facial implants made out of silicone are greatly employed for facial skeleton insertion. These implants are both for aesthetic and reconstructive purposes and are installed in the mid and lower face.
Many individuals have cheek implants inserted to give their cheeks a higher and more prominent look if they appear slightly flat or sunken. People whose chins are too small and disproportionate in comparison to the other parts of their faces often select to have chin implants. Moreover, chin implants are frequently suggested to people who are receiving reparative nose surgery to maintain facial symmetry, since the size of the chin might influence the appearance of the nose. Conversely, jaw implants are used to broaden the lower third part of the face. A feeble jaw may be considered as being sloped instead of angled, from the ear to the chin. In some cases, both the chin and jaw can affect facial balance.
Procedure steps
A facial implant procedure may involve the following steps:
Anesthesia
Facial implants are typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, where the patient is fully asleep or insensitive to pain during the procedure. Anesthesia allows the surgeon to perform the procedure with greater precision and control and minimizes the risk of movement or discomfort for the patient. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the patient's medical history, the surgery's extent, and the patient's and the surgeon's preferences.
Cheek implants
The precise placement of an insert on the cheekbone is determined by the part of the face that needs to be enhanced. Usually, the implant is inserted through an incision inside the mouth. In cases where more than one procedure is done at the same time, cuts may also be made inside the lower eyelid or within the hairline as an alternative entry point for the implant.
Chin implants
When getting a chin implant, the incision is usually made inside the mouth, along the line where the lower lip meets the gums. An alternate way to get the implant is to make an incision just under the chin.
Jaw implants
Jaw implant placement involves incisions inside the mouth, back along the jawline at the crease joining cheeks and gums. Your incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or removable stitches that are typically removed within one to two weeks following the surgery.
Recovery
Recovery after facial implant surgery varies depending on the type and extent of the procedure. However, in general, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following the surgery. Getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities during the initial recovery period is important to allow the body to heal properly. Most patients can return to work and other normal activities within a week or two. However, following your surgeon's instructions closely and taking good care of yourself can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Types of Facial Implants
Which Facial Implants is Right for You?
Choosing the right facial implant for you is a highly personal choice because of the elective nature of the surgery. Choosing the right facial implant involves careful consideration of several factors. If you have a weak, overly small chin, undefined cheekbones, lack of facial definition, congenital deformities in your face, or deformity due to facial injury; facial implants may be right for you.
It's important to start by consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon experienced in performing facial implant surgeries. Your surgeon will be able to evaluate your specific needs and desires and make recommendations on the best type of implant for you. Additionally, before undergoing a facial implant procedure, it's important to understand your facial anatomy and desired outcomes clearly. Do you want to add volume to your cheeks or jawline, or do you want to enhance the overall contour of your face? It will help guide you in choosing the right type of implant.
Educating yourself about the procedural steps, potential risks and concerns, and patient success stories help you make an informed decision. Moreover, viewing before-and-after photos can give you a better idea of what to expect from the procedure and help you determine whether or not the surgeon's style and results align with your goals and expectations.
A brief overview of each facial implant procedure might help you educate yourself about which facial implant is right for you:
Chin implants
Chin implant surgery, also known as mentoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure involving the placement of a silicone implant in the chin area to enhance the chin profile and overall facial balance. The procedure is commonly performed on individuals seeking to improve the appearance of a weak or recessed chin, which affects the overall symmetry and proportion of the face. Chin implant surgery can also be used to correct congenital or accidental deformities and to restore balance to the face.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. It involves placing an implant through a small incision under the chin or inside the mouth along the crease joining the lower lip and gums.
Jaw implants
Jaw implant surgery, also known as mandibular augmentation, is a cosmetic procedure involving the placement of a silicone implant in the jawline to improve the appearance of the lower face and facial symmetry. This procedure is commonly performed on individuals seeking to improve the appearance of a weak or recessed jawline to give the chin or jaws a more pronounced look. Jaw implant surgery can also correct congenital or acquired deformities and restore facial symmetry.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. It involves the placement of a small implant through a small incision in the mouth along the crease joining cheeks and lower gums.
Cheek implants
Cheek implant surgery, also known as malar augmentation, is a cosmetic procedure involving placing a silicone implant in the cheek area to enhance the appearance of the mid-face and improve overall facial symmetry. This procedure is commonly performed on individuals seeking to improve the appearance of flat, sunken, or aging cheeks, which can affect the overall balance and proportion of the face. Cheek implant surgery can also correct congenital deformities or structural abnormalities resulting from injury or accident. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.
During the procedure, a small implant is placed through a small incision inside the mouth or under the eye. Overall, cheek implant surgery is a safe and effective option for individuals looking to enhance the appearance of their mid-face and achieve better facial balance and symmetry.