What is Facial Implants?
The
Facial Implant Procedure is a
surgical
procedure that changes the shape and balance of the face by
using implants to enhance a receding chin, add prominence to
the cheekbones or reshape the jaw line. There are a wide
variety of implants available and made from different
materials. Facial implants help strengthen a jaw line or
bring the chin or cheekbones into balance with the rest of
the face.
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Effects of Facial Implants
Getting a
facial implant will help provide a more harmonious balance
to your face and features so that you feel good about the
way you look. The procedure adds depth to the key features
of your face and can enhance the overall symmetry and
proportion to create better balance. Implants may also be
placed to help fill out a face that appears “gaunt” or
tired.
With the
help of facial implants, you would experience a boost in
self-esteem because of the change in your appearance. If
you are looking for improvement, not perfection, in your
appearance and are realistic in your expectations, you may
find that a facial implant is the right choice for you.
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Candidates for Facial Implants
Good
candidates for Facial Implants are men and women with weak
chins, unpronounced cheeks or undefined jaw lines.
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Your
Consultation
Once you consult with your surgeon, be very clear about your
expectations. Your surgeon will assist you in determining
what is realistic and possible to achieve. It will be
helpful if you provide photos of people whose facial
features are similar to what you want to achieve. Be sure
you understand the details of the proposed surgery,
including the cost and what to expect during your recovery.
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The Facial Implants
Procedure
Chin Surgery
A chin
implant may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. During
the operation, the surgeon selects the proper size and shape
of implant to improve your appearance. A small incision is
made to create the pocket and then the implant is inserted
inside the mouth (along the lower lip) or in the skin just
under the chin area. After this, the chin will be taped to
prevent swelling and discomfort.
Cheek Surgery
Cheek
implants usually take about 30 to 45 minutes. When cheek
implants are being placed in conjunction with another
cosmetic procedure, such as a Face Lift, Forehead Lift or
Eyelid Surgery, the implants may be inserted through the
incisions made for those procedures. Otherwise, an incision
will be made either inside your upper lip or your lower
eyelid. A pocket is then created and an implant is
inserted.
After
surgery, a dressing will be applied to minimize discomfort
and swelling. The severity and duration of such side effects
may vary, especially if there was another cosmetic procedure
performed.
Lower Jaw Surgery
Jaw
implants usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. Internal
incisions are made on either side of the lower lip to
provide access for creating a pocket into which the lower
jaw implant can be inserted. Dissolving sutures are used to
close the incisions.
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Recovery
After
surgery, it is not advisable to participate in certain
activities, especially if the activity may result in your
face being jarred or bumped. Normal appearance usually goes
back between 2 to 4 weeks. Patients can go back to work
about a week after the surgery. All other normal activities
can be resumed within 6 weeks after surgery.
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Risks
As with
other cosmetic procedures, some risks may occur. A facial
implant can shift slightly out of alignment and a second
operation may be necessary to replace it in its proper
position. Infection can occur with any operation. If an
infection occurs around a facial implant and does not clear
up after treatment with antibiotics, the implant might have
to be temporarily removed and replaced at a later time.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
Q: How
will I feel after the procedure?
A:
You may experience post-operative bruising and swelling and
mild to moderate discomfort for 1 to 2 days.
Q: How
long do the results of the implant last?
A:
Results are permanent.
Q: When
can I return to work after my surgery?
A:
You
can return to work and do other normal activity within a
week. However, you must refrain from doing any strenuous
activity and rough contact to the implant area for 4 to 6
weeks.
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