Facial implants

The face is one of our most noticeable features, and it can also show some of the earliest signs of aging. As we get older, the natural collagen production that helps keep our skin taut and youthful begins to decrease. As this happens, the skin on our bodies, including our face, begins to droop and sag, making us appear older than we are.

Facial implants are one solution to this problem, restoring structure and definition to the face and creating a balanced, proportional and younger-looking appearance. Facial implants can be added to almost any part of your face, but they are most often requested for the cheeks, chin and jaw.

What are facial implants?

Facial implants are designed to augment the face to improve the patient’s aesthetic appearance. They are created using biocompatible material, with silicone being the most common. Alternative materials include high-density porous polyethylene (Medpor) and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, otherwise known as ePTFE or Gore-Tex.

Types of facial implants

Implants are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and during your consultation we will help you find the right ones to improve the structure and appearance of your face. Common types of facial implants include the following.

Cheek implants

High, defined cheekbones are on the wish list of many cosmetic surgery patients. Cheek (also known as malar) implants help to improve the bone structure of your face by making your cheekbones appear higher and fuller.

Chin implants

Some patients who find that their chin is particularly small and not in proportion to their other facial features opt for chin implant surgery. These implants can help to increase the size of the chin, balancing the proportions of the face and creating a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Jaw implants

A narrow jaw can also cause the face to appear out of proportion. Facial implants can improve the width of the jaw and add definition and balance to the face.

The facial implant procedure

Almost all facial implant surgeries are carried out while the patient is under general anesthesia. This means you will wake up in recovery once the surgery is complete, with no memory of the procedure.

The actual procedure will depend on the type of implant that you have chosen, but typically the implants are placed via small incisions at the site of each area to be augmented. For example:

• Cheek implants are usually inserted via an incision inside the patient’s mouth or in the hairline.
• Chin implants are normally placed via an incision inside the mouth or occasionally externally on the chin itself.
• Jaw implants are usually inserted via an internal incision along the line where the cheek and gums meet.

How long will it take to recover from my facial implant surgery?

While some results from your facial implant surgery may be apparent immediately, you should expect bruising, swelling and some discomfort in the days after your procedure. Swelling can take several months to completely disappear.

Our team will provide you with specific instructions for caring for the treated areas in the days following your procedure, and these should be followed precisely to ensure you have the quickest and most straightforward recovery, and the best results from your facial implant surgery.

Am I a suitable candidate for facial implants?

Before approving any patient for surgery, we ask you to attend a comprehensive consultation. During this meeting, we will discuss your medical history, as well as your objectives for your surgery. We will also conduct an examination of your face to determine which implants are right to achieve your goals.

If your face is betraying your age too quickly, or if you would simply like to add definition, or amend the proportions of your facial features, implants could provide the perfect solution. To find out more, please schedule a consultation with our experienced cosmetic surgery team.