Facial Implants | Cheek Implants | Arlington VA | Gainesville VA

Facial implants can provide new facial contours and dimensions to bring facial features into better balance. The most common of facial implants is that of the cheek, nose and chin. Facial implants may be of natural or artificial materials. Prominent cheekbones are one of the facial features frequently associated with beauty. Cheek implants can also provide you with heightened and well-formed cheekbones like the ones you had when you were young or those you’ve never had. If you’re considering facial implants, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to this procedure.

What will my first visit be like?

On your first visit, your surgeon will discuss with you the changes that are to be made in your appearance. The procedure itself will be explained to you as well as risks and limitations. You will be asked to give a complete medical background. You may also ask to be shown before and after photos of other patients who have undergone this procedure. Be sure to ask all questions you have of this procedure.

How is the procedure performed?

An incision is either made inside the mouth near the gums or on the outer cheek, slightly below the lower eyelid. The implant that is of size and shape selected by the surgeon is then inserted through the incisions into a pocket created in the tissue. The implants are placed on or below the cheekbones after which the incisions are closed with sutures that are later absorbed by the body.

How long does the procedure take?

The surgery takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the extent of repair to be made and may be performed using general or local anesthesia with sedation.

Will I need to stay in a hospital?

This procedure can be performed in the office surgical suite on an outpatient basis. A hospital stay may sometimes be required for more extensive surgery.

What should I expect after surgery?

The surgical sight may be a bit swollen with a feeling of tightness and may as well be uncomfortable in the first few days of the surgery. Movement of the mouth may be a bit difficult. You may be placed on a liquid diet if incisions are made inside the mouth till there is adequate healing to allow chewing of solid foods.

What is recovery like?

You may be back to work in about a week. You will gradually return to normal appearance in about 2 to 4 weeks. Avoid any activity that may jar or bump you in the face.

How long will the results last?

The results for this operation are permanent. People who have undergone this procedure are satisfied with the outcome.

What are the side effects?

You may experience temporary swelling, feeling of tightness and bruising. If the incision is made inside the mouth, you may have difficulty moving your mouth till it heals.

Are there any risks?

The infraorbital nerve may be injured resulting in numbness of the cheek skin and upper teeth and gums. A shift in the position of the implant may occur requiring a second operation. Infection can also set in. Excessive tightening and hardening of scar tissue around the artificial implant causing an unnatural shape.

Am I an ideal candidate for this?

You are if you are in good physical health, want to add definition to your face, understand the healing process, and are not allergic to any implant material used.