Facial implants are sculpted pieces of silicone or other substances that are placed in the chin, cheeks or jaw to enhance the contours of the face.
The University of Michigan is a nationally recognized leader in reconstructive surgery. Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and medical specialists guides our patients through every step of the facial implant process to ensure the best results possible.
Is a Facial Implant Right for You?
Facial implants may be used to help strengthen a jaw line or to balance the chin or cheekbones with the rest of the face. This surgery can help you with your self-image if you are self-conscious about your appearance.
Implants may help fill out a face that appears "sunken" or tired. For example, jaw implants can help strengthen the jaw line, improving the proportions of the face. Chin implants can add proportion or balance to a face. An implant placed over the cheekbones may help restore a more youthful appearance in some patients.
With the strides that have been made in the last decade in medical technology, devices and materials, facial implants are becoming more common.
Best Candidates
Facial implants are best for patients who are in otherwise good health, without active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions. Plastic surgeons will frequently use facial implants to balance the features of a younger patient, or in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure in a more mature patient.
About the Procedure
There are several implants available. Implants may be manufactured from a variety of materials, including silicone or other substances. There is no evidence to suspect that silicone implants cause any disease. Your surgeon will consult with you and discuss recommendations for the type of implant to use.
During cheek implant surgery, your surgeon will make an incision inside the mouth or along the lower eyelid, creating a pocket into which the implant is inserted. If another cosmetic procedure, such as a face lift or eyelid surgery is being performed at the same time, your surgeon may insert the implants through those incisions.
During a chin implant procedure, the surgeon inserts the implant into a pocket in front of the jawbone. The surgeon makes an incision on either inside of the mouth along the lower lip or just below the chin area.
During a jaw implant procedure, the surgeon makes incisions for the implant on either side of the lower lip.
Options to Enhance the Procedure
We often use facial implants in conjunction with a face lift, nose surgery (rhinoplasty), an eye lift or a forehead lift. View all of our facial surgeries.
Your Consultation
If you’re interested in facial implants, we’ll first have you come for a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation, you should expect to:
- Provide a complete medical history. Include information about: any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
- Have your surgeon to conduct a complete examination of your face, including the skin and underlying bone.
- Discuss possible risks and complications.
Surgery
Preparing for Your Surgery
After your consultation and decisions about surgery, we will give you pre-operative information that explains everything you should do and know before your procedure. Your surgical team will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, whether your surgery is outpatient or inpatient. You also may want to make arrangements for someone to help you for a day or two while you heal.
Anesthesia
We use general anesthetic so that you will sleep and remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.
After Your Surgery
It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns.
Location
Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. Most facial implants are outpatient procedures.
We conduct all pre-operative and post-operative visits at Domino’s Farms where our patients enjoy personalized care in a private office atmosphere.