Facial implants unlike facelifts are used to correct disproportionate facial features. They are used by surgeons to improve the facial contours of a patient. In particular, facial asymmetry may be corrected with facial implants. Facial implants are specially manufactured for this purpose and are made of solid silicone and porous polyethylene (that allows cells to grow through it). There are several types of facial implants:
i. Mid-facial or cheek implants are used to increase the projection of the cheek bones. Their purpose is to add volume to areas that may be recessed or flat. They are inserted via the back of the mouth or through incisions in the hairline. Some surgeons insert them during eyelid surgery.
ii. Nasal implants are used to improve the appearance of the nose tip or the bridge of the nose.
iii. Jaw implants are used to increase the width of the lower third of the face.
iv. Chin implants are used to increase the size or projection of the chin.
The Procedure
Depending on where the implant will be inserted, incisions will be made:
*For cheek implants: beneath the eyelid or inside the mouth on the walls of the cheek.
*For Jaw implants: on each side of the lower lip (inside the mouth)
*For Chin Implants: under the chin or inside the lower lip
The implants are inserted into the incisions and made to attach to tissue. Bandages and tapes will be applied to reduce swelling.
Risks and Complications
Besides the normal risks associated with surgery (bleeding, infection, etc.), the implant can also move out of place. If this occurs, there is a need for revision surgery. Other major risks include:
*Damage to deeper structures (nerves, blood vessels, muscles)
*Firmness around the implant
*Pressure of implant on surrounding structures
*Skin discoloration
*Sensitivity of skin
*Persistent pain
Post-operative care
The surgeon may recommend that the patient does not brush his/her teeth during the healing period. Thus, a mouthwash should be used instead. The surgeon will also prescribe ointments and creams to be applied to the surgery site. This should be applied with rigor. Consumption of foods should be restricted to soft foods such as protein shakes, puddings, and ice cream. Plenty of ice should be available to apply on the surgeries site. In general, the surgeon will require that the patient quits smoking for several weeks. Smoking impairs blood flow and thus decreases the healing rate. In general, the patient should monitor the following factors:
*Fluctuation in Body Temperature
*Extent of swelling and pain
*Presence of discharges from the surgery site
The doctor should be contacted immediately in the above events.
Recovery
With facial implants recovery is pretty fast. Normally, only one week rest is enough. The length of recovery would vary depending on the personal condition of the patient, the number of interventions carried out alongside the facial implantation and the personal habits.