Facial Implants

When a person's facial structure is inadequate, his or her appearance may be unbalanced or lack of prominence. This problem may be subtle or it may be very noticeable. Fortunately in many cases, a facial implant can bring the facial features into balance and make a significant improvement in one's appearance. Facial implants can be placed to augment your cheeks, chin or jaw.

How to know if facial implants are right for you

When a person is young, the cheeks seem to project fully. Over time, that fullness can get lost as tissue degrades. In some cases, the underlying bone structure was never adequate in the first place, so the cheeks or chin were always lacking in prominence. Certain wrinkle fillers or fat injections can restore facial volume, but a more permanent solution is the facial implant.

What is a facial implant?

Facial implants are made of silicone rubber and shaped to produce a natural facial contour and augment specific areas. They come in different sizes and may be used to add projection to the cheeks or chin. They may be sewn or sutured into place or fastened with screws. In either method, the facial implant will be secured in place.

Chin implants increase the size and projection of a chin that does not project in proportion with the forehead, nose and cheeks.   A small or recessed chin seems to disappear into your neck rather than appear as a distinct facial feature.

Jaw implants increase the width of the lower third of your face. Much like the chin, a weak jaw is not well-defined and distinct from the neck or slopes rather than angles from your ear to your chin.

Cheek implants increase cheekbone projection, adding the youthful appearance of volume to areas that are recessed or flat.

How this procedure is performed

Incisions in the mouth are often used during the placement of facial implants, producing scars that are literally invisible. During chin augmentation, the implant may be placed through an incision underneath the chin. Sometimes facial implants are placed during another surgical procedure such as a facelift.