Facial Implants: Different Types

In the world of cosmetic surgery, there is a group of procedures aimed at enhancing the contour of the human face. Facial implants including chin implants, jaw implants, or cheek implants provide rejuvenation, augmentation, and reconstruction for patients wishing to improve or repair the appearance of the face.

Implant Procedures

•    Chin Implant Procedure

Performed either as stand-alone out-patient procedure, or in combination of other surgical procedures, chin implant is augmentative; its goal is either to give accent to the jaw line through the placement of customized implant materials or to achieve chin advancement.  Implants are put in place by means of incision (either under the chin or in the mouth).

•    Jaw Implant Procedure

Also called jaw augmentation or mandibular augmentation, this procedure could take approximately one –and-a-half hours to a full 2 hours, depending on the extent of the augmentation, the technique used, and the material used

Placement of the implant is determined in advance, usually on top of the jaw bone. Once the implant is in place, it is checked by the surgeon to ensure that it suits the features of the patient. Either sutures or screws are used to secure the implant in place.

•    Cheek Implant Procedure

To provide access for the implant, an incision is made in either of two common locations: on the outer cheek a little below the lower eyelid, or above the upper lip. A pocket created in the tissue receives the implant following its insertion through the incisions.

The implants may be positioned on or below the cheekbones. To keep them securely attached to the bone, titanium screws are sometimes used by the surgeon. The incisions are then closed with sutures that dissolve in the body.

Post-Surgical Expectations
After surgery, the patient may experience temporary pain and discomfort where the implant is placed. Patients may experience effects such as:

•    Feeling of tightness in the treated area.
•    Swelling for a number of days following surgery.
•    Difficult movement of the mouth during recuperation period.
•    Forced liquid diet for days if incisions have been made inside the mouth.

Visible effects of face implant surgery typically become evident after 3 or 4 months.  After this time, the implants will be set in place and provide the patient with a lifetime of aesthetic enhancement wherever the implant is placed.