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Face implant surgery, also known as facial augmentation or facial implantation, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at enhancing facial features by inserting specially designed implants. This procedure is commonly performed to improve the contour and proportion of various facial structures, such as the chin, cheekbones, jawline, and temple areas. Face implant surgery can help individuals achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial appearance. In this article, we will delve into the indications, advantages, disadvantages, preparation, procedure, risks, post-operative measures, and success rate associated with face implant surgery.
Why Face Implant Surgery is Recommended?
Face implant surgery is recommended for individuals who desire to improve the shape, volume, or symmetry of specific facial areas. The common indications for this procedure include:
- Weak or recessed chin: Face implants can be used to enhance a weak or receding chin, improving facial harmony and profile
- Flat cheekbones: Implants can add volume and contour to the cheekbones, creating a more defined and youthful appearance
- Sagging or poorly defined jawline: Implants can strengthen the jawline, providing a more sculpted and balanced facial contour
- Temporal hollowing: Facial implants can address sunken temples, restoring fullness to the area
- Facial asymmetry: Implants can help correct facial asymmetry by augmenting the deficient side
Advantages of Asymmetrical Face (Facial Implants) Surgery
- Enhanced facial aesthetics: Face implant surgery can bring about a significant improvement in the overall facial appearance
- Customisable results: The implants used in facial augmentation come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for customised results that are tailored to each patient's unique facial features and desired outcome
- Long-lasting results: Facial implants are typically made from biocompatible materials, such as silicone or porous polyethylene, which are well-tolerated by the body. These implants can provide lasting results
- Minimally invasive procedure: Face implant surgery is considered a minimally invasive procedure, as it involves the placement of implants through small incisions, resulting in minimal scarring
- Increased self-confidence: By improving facial features that individuals may feel self-conscious about, face implant surgery can help boost self-esteem and overall confidence
Disadvantages of Asymmetrical Face (Facial Implants) Surgery:
- Risks associated with surgery: Like any surgical procedure, face implant surgery carries inherent risks, including infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and poor wound healing
- Potential for implant displacement or malposition: In some cases, facial implants may shift or become malpositioned, requiring additional corrective surgeries
- Implant rejection or extrusion: Although rare, there is a possibility of implant rejection or extrusion, where the implant may need to be removed if it does not integrate properly with the surrounding tissues
- Permanent changes: Since facial implants are designed to be permanent, it is crucial for individuals to carefully consider their desired results and work closely with an experienced surgeon to ensure optimal outcomes
Preparation of Face Implant Surgery
Before undergoing face implant surgery, patients will typically have an initial consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon, who will evaluate the patient's facial anatomy, discuss the desired outcomes, and determine the most appropriate implant size and shape. Additionally, the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, conduct a physical examination, and provide pre-operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding.
Face Implant Surgery Procedure
Face implant surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia. The procedure involves the following steps:
- Incision placement: The surgeon will make incisions in inconspicuous locations, such as inside the mouth, beneath the chin, or within existing natural creases of the face
- Implant placement: The surgeon will create pockets in the facial tissues and carefully insert the chosen implants. These implants are precisely positioned to achieve the desired augmentation and symmetry
- Incision closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and in some cases, the surgeon may use absorbable sutures that do not require removal
- Post-operative dressing: A supportive dressing or compression garment may be applied to minimise swelling and ensure proper implant positioning during the initial healing phase
Risks Associated with Face Implant Surgery
While face implant surgery is generally safe, some of the potential risks associated with the surgery are as follows-
- Infection: There is a mild risk of infection following surgery, which may require antibiotics or, in severe cases, implant removal
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery is possible but uncommon. However, it may require intervention and possibly a return to the operating room
- Hematoma or seroma: The accumulation of blood (hematoma) or fluid (seroma) around the implants may occur, necessitating drainage.
- Poor wound healing: Some individuals may experience delayed wound healing, leading to visible scars or skin irregularities
- Nerve damage: There is a slight risk of temporary or, in rare cases, permanent damage to nearby nerves, which can result in altered sensation or movement in the facial area
Post-operative Measures
After face implant surgery, patients should follow their surgeon's post-operative instructions to optimise healing and achieve the best results.
These may include:
- Medication and wound care: Patients may be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics and instructed on how to clean the incision site to prevent infection
- Swelling and bruising management: Applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated can help minimise swelling and bruising during the initial recovery period
- Activity restrictions: Patients are generally advised to avoid heavy lifting and excessive facial movements for several weeks
Success Rate of Facial Implant Surgery
The success rate of facial implant surgery depends on the surgeon's skill and experience, patient selection, and adherence to post-operative care. When performed by a qualified surgeon, facial implant surgery can yield high patient satisfaction and provide long-lasting results.
Frequently Asked Question
How long do facial implants last?
Facial implants last for a lifetime, but in some cases, they may need to be replaced or removed due to infection, tissue breakdown, or changes in the face. The longevity of a facial implant varies depending on the material used, the placement of the implant, and the patient's health. On average, facial implants can last for 10-15 years or longer with proper care and maintenance.
How much does a face implant cost?
Face implant cost depends on the type of implant, the surgeon's fee, and the location of the surgery. Additionally, the cost may also be affected by the complexity of the procedure and any necessary pre-operative or post-operative treatments.
How long does it take to recover from facial implants?
It typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to fully recover from facial implants. However, the actual time for recovery depends on factors such as the type of implant, the extent of the surgery, and the general health and healing ability. During this time, patients may experience some swelling, tenderness, and discomfort, but these symptoms should subside within a few days to a week. Full recovery and optimal results may take several months to achieve.
How long does facial implant surgery take?
Facial implant surgery typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of procedure and the number of implants being placed.
Are face implants safe?
In general, face implants are considered safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. The most common face implants used are silicone, and they are FDA-approved. However, like with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, such as infection, bleeding, scarring, implant displacement or rotation, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia.
Is cheek implant surgery painful?
Cheek implant surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, so the patient should not experience any pain during the procedure.
How safe are cheek implants?
Cheek implants are considered safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. Complications are rare, but they can include infection, implant displacement, and allergic reactions to the implant material. Patients should also be aware of the potential for scarring and numbness in the treatment area. It is important to thoroughly research and consult with a plastic surgeon to ensure the safety and best outcome for each individual patient.
Review
Reviewed by Dr. S.C. Sood - Associate Director - Aesthetic And Reconstructive Surgery.