Chin and Cheek Implants

Purpose

Facial implants are used in cosmetic surgery to bring the chin, jaw or cheekbones into balance with the rest of the face. Although the implants are quite small the subtle change can make quite stunning improvements. Implants are often used in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures. For example, a chin implant will often compliment surgery to reduce the nose, giving a better-proportioned and attractive profile.

Procedure

Chin implants involve surgery and the treatment can take up to two hours per implant, depending on the treatment. Chin implants can use a variety of materials including: silicone, man-made materials, or tissue from your own body. It may also be possible to reshape the chin using 'suture' or 'threadlift' techniques. This involves the placement of sutures or threads with tiny 'teeth' into the brow through a small insertion. The threads are pulled upwards and secured, and the insertion is stitched shut.

Cheek implants involve surgery and the treatment can take up to two hours per implant, depending on the treatment. The surgeon makes a small cut inside the mouth or under the lower eyelash before inserting the implant. The implant is held in place by the cheek muscles, stitches or metal screws. There are several different materials used for cheek implants, including silicone and tissue from your own body.

The implant is usually inserted through the inside of the mouth at the place closest to where the implant will be located. This results in on visible scarring. Patients will normally stay for one night in hospital following surgery, which is performed under a general anaesthetic. They are advised to take 1 – 2 weeks from work but this will be determined by the nature of their work, and quickly they heal.

Results

Most people find that the shape or definition of their chin and cheek has changed. Chin reduction surgery is permanent. Implant results will be semi-permanent if human tissue is used because the tissue will age, or permanent in the case of synthetic implants such as silicone or polythene.

Risks

The surgeon will discuss all associated risks with you in detail. At consultation, the surgeon will need to have a very clear understanding of what you hope to achieve by undergoing surgery. He will then explain all the risks and limitations associated with the procedure and advise you which techniques would give you the most pleasing results.