What is facial implant surgery?
Facial implant surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to correct or improve the shape and projection of facial structures, such as the chin or cheekbones.
A prominent chin can be reduced by removing a portion between the chin and bone, and a receding chin can be built up either by pushing the bone forward or by introducing an implant onto the bone.
Each of these operations is performed through an incision made in the space between the lower lip and gum, although if an implant is used, the surgeon may recommend that the incision be made in the natural crease under the chin.
Flat cheekbones can be built up by inserting implants over the cheekbones, usually through incisions made inside the mouth where the cheek joins the upper gum. The implants used are commonly made of silicone or other biological materials and are safe and well-tolerated by the body. Sometimes it is necessary to use a bone graft, which could be taken from the hip crest where it leaves a visible scar. These operations can usually be performed at the same time as other cosmetic surgeries, such as a facelift or nose reshaping surgery.
Who is a good candidate for facial implant surgery?
01. Who is a good candidate for facial implant surgery?
02. What happens before the surgery?
03. How can I help make the surgery a success? How can I help make the surgery a success?
04. How facial implant surgery is performed.
05. How long does the surgery take, is hospitalization necessary?
06. Alternative procedures to facelift and neck lift surgery.
07. Recovery and some tips for a good recovery.
What to expect after the operation?
These operations are usually performed under general anesthetic for which you should stay in the hospital at least overnight. You can expect a moderate intensity of pain in the first two days and a wound in the mouth in the area where the stitches are located. If you have had chin surgery, you may be immobilized for a few days. Sometimes it is necessary for a cheek implant to be stabilized with a lateral suture in the first 4 days.
The most important thing you need to do is treat your face gently and avoid disturbing the implant by touching it or, worse, trying to feel if it is moving. Do not rest your chin in your hand. Keep your mouth clean and wash with mouthwash after meals until the stitches dissolve. When brushing your teeth, you must be careful not to open your scars with the toothbrush. You will need at least a week of medical leave.
Risks and side effects associated with the operation
Specific risks.
- There is a minimal risk that part or all of the lip will be permanently numb, and there is an equally minimal risk that you will feel some weakening of one or more muscles around the mouth.
- Occasionally, the pressure of an implant can thin the underlying bone, and if the roots of the teeth are nearby, they may also be weakened.
Sometimes, an implant can slip out of place and require additional surgery to reposition it. - Occasionally, these operations are complicated by infections, which appear as pain, swelling, redness, and it may be necessary to remove the implant to clean it. If necessary, the implant can usually be replaced once the infection has been eliminated.
General complications associated with surgery
Healing
Bleeding and hematomas
Infection
Vicious, hypertrophic scars
Altered skin sensitivity
Sutures
Pain
Complications due to general anesthesia
General anesthesia
Shock
Allergic reactions
Cardiac and pulmonary complications
What is the price of facial implant surgery?
The mentioned costs are estimates, these may vary depending on the number of implants used.
A detailed final cost can only be established following a medical consultation, in which the patient’s clinical situation will be assessed and the individualized therapeutic plan will be established. These costs include: the surgeon’s and anesthesiologist’s fees, the hospitalization period, all the medicines and materials needed during the surgery and during hospitalization. For a personalized estimate, we recommend scheduling a consultation.
