Facial implants use fillers and surgical implants to alter the underlying structure of your skin and provide a better balance to the face. This procedure is an option for anyone who feels their natural look can be enhanced by reshaping certain features.
Chin Implants
Chin implants offer a permanent solution and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to match the results you are seeking. Some patients opt for additional surgical procedures, such as rhinoplasty or facial liposuction, in conjunction with chin implants.
During a chin implant procedure, you are given either general or local anesthesia and light sedation. An incision is made either inside the mouth or beneath the chin, depending on the type of implant you are receiving (silicone, Teflon or a biological insert). A pocket is created and the implant is placed inside. The incision is then closed. The procedure is generally completed within 45 minutes unless bone needs to be moved, in which case the operation may last up to three hours.
Some bruising and swelling is normal following a chin augmentation and may last for several weeks. Discomfort and soreness will occur but should respond well to pain medication. Other complications are rare but include numbness, damaged teeth, blood clots, infection, pain, scarring, fluid buildup beneath the skin and irregular facial contours.
Cheek Implants
Patients with weak cheek structure, a flat face or aging facial tissue may opt for cheek implants. Cheek implants are a simple, low-cost solution that many are drawn to.
There are a variety of implant options available that are typically made of synthetic materials. These can range from rigid to flexible depending on your desired look, and may or may not integrate with existing tissue.
When performed in conjunction with other procedures, like a face lift, cheek implants may be placed through an existing incision in the face. When performed alone, incisions are made under the eyelids or in the mouth and the implants are placed over the cheek bone. Stitches or dissolving sutures will be used to close the incision.
Lip Implants
A lip augmentation is a non-surgical procedure used to give you the appearance of full, plump lips. The most common lip augmentation is the injection of a dermal filler into the lips or in the area around the mouth. This procedure typically uses hyaluronic acid fillers, which improve the appearance of your lips by adding shape, structure and volume.
Hyaluronic fillers have more benefits than other fillers. They give your doctor better control of lip volume, involve gradual injections, lumps and bumps dissolve easily, there is less bruising and reasonably long-lasting results. An allergic reaction from hyaluronic fillers is unlikely because these fillers are made from a substance that is already found in the body.