Because well-defined facial features are a mark of
physical beauty, enhancing
the chin, cheeks and jawline can provide a more defined and attractive
appearance.
Facial implants can create remarkable changes by adding balance and
definition to underdeveloped features.
Manufactured from a variety of materials, facial implants are available to
augment the cheeks, chin and jaw. Many implants are made from silicone.
There is no current scientific evidence to suggest that silicone implants are
harmful.
If an incision is to be made inside your mouth, it is important that you inform
Dr. Gilman and Dr. Ehrlichman if you smoke or if you have dental or gum
problems. If you do, you may be instructed to take oral antibiotics before and
after surgery to protect you from infection.
Though facial implant surgery may require only local anesthetic, more often,
general anesthesia is recommended.
In most cases implant surgery is performed on an outpatient basis though an
overnight stay may be necessary if other procedures are performed at the
same time.
Chin Implants ( mentoplasty)
Dr. Gilman and Dr. Ehrlichman may recommend chin augmentation surgery
in addition to nasal surgery when it is clear that a chin implant will add to
your facial balance and harmony.
Frequently, for instance, a chin implant will be used together with rhinoplasty
in a teenage patient whose face lacks the right proportion.
Chin implant surgery takes about an hour. During surgery, the implant (which
is pre-selected according to size and shape) is inserted into a pocket that Dr.
Gilman and Dr. Ehrlichman create on the bone. Incisions can be made inside
the mouth ( the preferred method because no scar is visible) or in a crease
under the chin.
The chin may be taped after surgery to minimize swelling and sutures will
remain for five to seven days. If an intra-oral incision is used, dissolving
sutures will be used.
Swelling and bruising may be visible around the chin and neck for about a
week. During that time, you will experience some difficulty smiling and
talking. Our office will give you instructions about dental hygiene and eating
after surgery.
Click here for more information on Chin Implants
Cheek implants (malar augmentation)
A patient may wish to have cheek implants to restore a more youthful
appearance. In patients 40 - 50 years old, for instance, cheek implants can
improve the contour of the mid-face and restore sagging tissues.
Cheek implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be
custom-fitted for a more natural look.
Cheek implant surgery usually takes less than an hour. When cheek
implants are inserted at the same time as another cosmetic procedure, the
implants can be inserted through the incisions made for that procedure.
Alternately, an incision is made inside your upper lip, a pocket is formed and
the implant is placed directly on or below the cheekbone.
After your surgery, movement of your mouth and lips will be limited. Swelling
and bruising last about a week. The sutures that are used close the incision
inside your mouth will dissolve in about 10 days.
Click here for more information on Cheek Implants
Lower-jaw implants
Jaw implants are placed directly on the jawbone to create a stronger, squarer,
more defined jawline.
Insertion of jaw implants takes one to two hours. Incisions are made inside
the lower lip and a pocket is created into which the jaw implant is inserted.
Dissolving sutures are used.
After your surgery, movement of your mouth and lips may be limited and you
will have dietary restrictions.
Swelling can be significant following jaw implant surgery. While most swelling
will subside in the first week, you may experience mild swelling over several
months.
Click here for more information on Lower-jaw Implants
Problems rarely occur after facial implant surgery, but you need to be
informed about such possibilities.
Implants can rarely shift slightly out of position necessitating a second
surgery.
If infection happens and does not respond to antibiotics, the implant might
have to be temporarily removed and replaced in another surgery. This is also
rare.
Dr. Gilman and Dr. Ehrlichman will discuss the risks associated with the
implant surgery during your consultation.
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Plastic Surgery Specialists Inc.
Boston
Plastic Surgery
332 Washington St., Suite 215
Wellesley, MA 02481
Phone: 781-431-7340; Fax: 781-431-7342
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