Facial Implants

There are several implants that can be used to improve the symmetry of a person’s face. By creating a more harmonious balance, facial implants can help a person feel better about his or her appearance. Typically these implants are placed in the jaw, cheeks, or chin. Facial implants can also be performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as facelift surgery, a forehead lift, or eyelid surgery.

Ideal Candidates

The best patients for plastic surgery are those with clear, realistic goals and expectations. Often, people bring pictures to their consultation, which can be helpful for the surgeon, but it must be remembered that there are several factors that must be taken into account to obtain a certain look. For example, the shape of the face must be considered when determining the new jaw line.

People with gum problems may not be ideal for facial implant surgery, because sometimes the incisions are made through the mouth. Also those who are in poor health or who are currently suffering from mental illness are poor candidates for surgery. Teens may be good candidates for this surgery if they have completed development.

What to Expect From This Procedure

An initial consultation with Dr. David Kim will help to determine if a facial implant is the best option for you. Whether you desire chin, jaw, or cheek implant, these procedures are usually performed under a local anesthetic with sedation, but when in conjunction with other surgeries, they may be performed under general anesthesia.

Chin Implants

Surgery

A chin implant can improve the jaw line or profile of a person’s face. To do this, the doctor will make an incision inside the mouth at the base of the lower teeth, along the lower lip. It might also be inserted in the skin just under the chin area. (The doctor will decide on the best size and shape of the implant.) He will then create a pocket in which the implant is inserted and sutured in place. Typically, when surgery is intra-oral (in the mouth) the sutures will dissolve; otherwise they will need to be removed in five to seven days.

Recovery

Surgery done in the mouth may result in difficulty smiling and talking. It is normal to have bruising along the chin and neck. Furthermore, you will need to follow Dr. Kim’s specific instructions about how to care for your teeth, the kind of food to avoid, and which activities to restrain from during recovery.

Jaw Implants

Surgery

During lower jaw augmentation, incisions will be made in the mouth on either side of the lower lip – near the back teeth. A pocket will be created for the implant to sit, and the incision will be closed with dissolvable sutures.

Recovery

Swelling may develop in the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery, and may persist for the next few weeks preventing the full benefits of the surgery from being apparent. Smiling, talking, or moving your mouth in a certain way may be limited several days after surgery. Patients will be given specific instructions for eating, activities, and oral care.

Cheek Implants

Surgery

Cheek implants can improve the aesthetic quality of the face, and restore a youthful appearance. An incision is made, thorough which a pocket is made and the implant is inserted. If this surgery is being done in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, the same incision will be used for all procedures. If only cheek implants are being added, than the incision will be made in either the upper jaw inside the upper lip or through the lower eyelid. Stitches will be used to close the incision.

Recovery

You may be swollen and bruised following surgery. There will be specific instructions on how to eat, and what activities should be avoided. If surgery occurs through the mouth you may have difficulty moving your mouth or lips for a short period of time.

Possible Risks

Implants are typically made of silicone, and although this has not been shown to be harmful, common complications such as infection may occur. If the infection does not heal, the implant may need to be temporarily removed and replaced at a later time. Facial implants can potentially shift out of place (additional surgery may need to replace it in its proper position).