Facial Implants - An Overview.

What Are Facial Implants?

Facial implants form an integral part of cosmetic surgery that is often overlooked. These implants provide a permanent and three-dimensional solution to restore facial volume. These implants can be easily removed using minimally invasive procedures. Facial implants have become popular because the loss of volume is the most commonly observed problem associated with aging. Though facial volume can be restored through several methods, solid silicone implants rank highest due to their cost effectiveness and ease of placement. Implants are biocompatible and aim to enhance the facial structure. They are small and can help a surgeon and the patient achieve their goals. In addition, they are beneficial for people with disfigured faces after trauma. Chin, cheeks, and jaws are the common areas where implants are inserted. Hence, people with problems with a small chin, facial contour, or weak jaw can opt for implants to get rid of them.

Why Are Facial Implants Required?

Facial implants are required for several reasons on different facial areas. For example, chin or cheek implants are required by people with a weak or receding chin, lack of facial definition, or to overcome other facial deformities. In addition, these implants help restore facial volume and conceal deformities. Some of the benefits of facial implants are listed below:

• They enhance the appearance of the cheek.

• Implants correct the facial deformities or asymmetry in the cheek, jaws, or chin.

• Facial implants help increase cheek projection and improve the appearance of the facial profile.

• Implants help improve the receding jawline and distinguish a person’s neck.

• They reverse the signs of aging and restore the normal facial contour.

• Facial implants improve a person’s self-esteem or confidence.

What Are the Different Facial Implant Options?

Though numerous sizes and styles of facial implants are available, the doctor will recommend the suitable implant option that aligns with a person’s aesthetic goals and facial features. The different facial implant options are listed below:

1. Chin Implants - The chin is an integral aspect of a person’s face which plays an important role in enhancing the facial appearance. Most people desire to have a prominent and defined chin contour. For such patients, implants are a safe and pliable option to give the desired look to the chin. During the procedure, an incision is made in the crease line under a person’s chin or in the mouth at the junction of the gums and lower lip. Next, the doctor stretches the tissue to create room for the implant. Finally, the site is closed with sutures to conceal the implant.

2. Cheek Implants - These implants increase the volume and projection of cheekbones, thereby helping patients with receding chin. During the procedure, an incision is made in the fat area of the cheek for implant placement. In addition, the implant can also be placed in the cheek through the mouth.

3. Jaw Implants - Jaw implants aim to increase the width of the lower third of the face. It is difficult to distinguish a weak jaw from a neck, resulting in facial imbalance. During the procedure, an incision is made intraorally. Next, the implant is inserted in the pocket created near the jawbone. The sutures are closed after successful implant placement. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and gets completed in one hour.

How Should a Patient Prepare for Facial Implant Surgery?

The facial implant is a type of cosmetic surgery and an individualized procedure. Hence, the procedure is not suitable for everyone. The patient must consult a plastic surgeon to avoid complications before getting an implant done. During the initial consultation, the doctor would like to know the patient’s aesthetic goals and expectations. Next, the patient will be evaluated and made aware of the steps of the procedure. The doctor decides the size and implant type based on the patient’s expectations. Hence, one must have realistic expectations from the surgery. In addition, the patient must also bring photos for reference. Patients with dental problems must consult their dentists and get rid of all their oral problems to avoid complications during facial implant surgery. The patient must describe the medical history regarding the following:

• Past and current medical conditions.

• Previous surgeries.

• History of allergies.

• Past and current medications.

• History of undergoing noninvasive procedures.

• Smoking history. To avoid complications, one must quit smoking four to six weeks before the procedure.

• History of any mental illnesses.

What Happens During Facial Implant Surgery?

A plastic surgeon must always perform facial implant surgery. The procedure is usually done under local or general anesthesia. The steps of the procedure vary according to the type.

• Cheek Implants - The steps for cheek implants are listed below:

  • First, the patient is given general anesthesia.

  • Next, an incision is made in the upper lip or

  • the lower eyelid.

  • A pocket is created to insert the implant.

  • Absorbable sutures are used to close the site. The stitches dissolve within ten days.

• Chin Implants - Chin implants are made of silicone or body tissues. The steps include:

  • The incision is made beneath the chin or intraorally near the lower lip.

  • Next, the implant is placed at a suitable position, and the site is closed with sutures.

What Are the Complications of Facial Implant Surgery?

The complications of facial implant surgery are listed below:

• Allergic reaction at the site of anesthesia.

• Profuse bleeding from the site of surgery.

• Formation of multiple blood clots can result in complications like strokes or deep vein thrombosis.

• Severe infections.

• Allergy to dressings, sutures, or antiseptic solutions.

• Formation of a hematoma beneath the incisions.

• Formation of keloid or hypertrophic scars that can be itchy or unaesthetic.

• Certain areas might become numb.

• Presence of multiple itchy or inflamed scars.

• Nausea.

• Delayed healing.

• Difficulty in smiling or talking for a few days.

• Inability to move mouth or lips.

How Should One Take Care After the Implant Procedure?

The facial implant is an outpatient procedure, so the patient usually recovers within a week. The following might happen immediately after the surgery:

• Presence of postoperative bruising or bleeding.

• Mild pain or discomfort.

• The patient must take a liquid diet for a few days.

• Refrain from engaging in strenuous physical activities.

• The patient must recline his face at a 45-degree angle for a week.

Conclusion:

Facial implant surgery is a boon for patients who are mentally distressed due to abnormal chin contour, receding jawline, or other facial abnormalities. Though the procedure has proven benefits, it should be done in consultation with a certified plastic surgeon.