Facial implants help accentuate or replace parts of the face that are initially underdeveloped or not fully developed. In addition, their applications are increasing daily with the development of new plastic materials, especially inert plastic materials (materials that don’t cause tissue reactions). Implants widely use in people with congenital disabilities in the contour of certain parts of the face (for example, cheek area, chin) or in case of nasal deformity. Moreover, there are vast possibilities for the application of implants for the targeted contouring of the face, emphasizing the cheekbones or chin, according to the patient’s wishes.
| Operation Duration | Length of hospitalization | Recovery Time |
| 1-3 hours | 1 day | 2-3 weeks |
Surgeons offer cheek, chin, and nose implants to patients as standard. The materials most commonly used by manufacturers for implants are polyethylene, silicone, and hydroxyapatite. Hydroxyapatite we are also known as artificial bone. It has an excellent healing ability, and the probability that the body will accept the implant without problems is almost one hundred percent.
However, implants created by experts from your tissue are ideal. Specialists usually make it from the cartilage part of the nose for nose implants, and for cheek and chin implants, they take the necessary material from the hip, for example. The probability of healing of such implants is certain. In younger patients, asymmetrical facial proportions due to development (for example, genetic predisposition or congenital disabilities) are usually correct with the help of implants. Implants also use by specialists here to deal with the consequences of post-traumatic changes. In the case of elderly patients, these are usually surgeries related to facial aging-related changes. Facial implants are often complementary to other operations, such as a facelift.
In this procedure, specialists can place the implants under general anesthesia, but they can also do it under local anesthesia. Cheek and chin implants are placed inside the mouth (oral cavity) without damaging the skin. Specialists also place cheek and chin implants through a relatively small incision in the mucosa. Under the incision, surgeons use instruments to create a small pocket between the bone and the periosteum (the tough, tough fibrous layer that covers the bone) and slide the implants into place. Implants are by no means screwed into the bone, as many mistakenly believe.
The implant has small channels through which the tissue will grow during the healing period so that the implant will firmly fix. Specialists finally close the incision in the mucosa with absorbable sutures. Doctors will apply an elastic strip band from the outside, that is, on the skin, for the required recovery time. Mild swelling continues for about 14 days after the surgery. It takes 3-6 months for the implant to heal fully. Implants can replace or completely removed at any time in the future.
Facial implants are a great way to perfect facial features for anyone who isn’t allergic to certain plastics contained in implants. This procedure can usually be performed from 16 and has no upper age limit. Suitable candidates for the procedure are those who are physically healthy, psychologically stable, and have realistic expectations. The result of the process is permanent. Always talk to your plastic surgeon before the procedure and explain your expectations for the development. The right doctor should answer all your questions about facial implants and possibly suggest an alternative solution.
What are Facial Implants?
We also know facial implants as chin implants, cheek implants, or tear trough implants. Facial implants are an effective and relatively simple method to resolve congenital or acquired facial deformities or correct the face’s appearance and contour for aesthetic reasons. Most often, these implants are used by surgeons to repair or enlarge the cheek area, chin, width of the lower jaw, or entire lower jaw, and correct the nose or auricle.
For the correct use of facial implants, it is necessary to know in detail the principles of aesthetic understanding of the face. Aesthetically, the face divides into aesthetic units. When planning any correction, it is necessary to consider that the harmony of the other team isn’t deteriorated by affecting one unit or disrupting the relationship between the units.
Today, facial implants produce in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. For example, there are five shapes to correct the cheek area and nine different shapes of implants to restore the chin and lower jaw. Of course, everybody has several dimensions. Specialists choose approaches to place implants so that scars are as minimal as possible. Doctors make most incisions intraoral (through the mouth) or transconjunctival (through the mucous membrane of the lower eyelid). To straighten the chin or the entire lower jaw, specialists sometimes place implants through a skin incision under the edge of the lower jaw.
Specialists make implants from silicone or polyethylene. Silicone implants are less expensive and more accessible to the implant, with a slightly higher risk of complications in terms of exclusion or displacement. Polyethylene, on the other hand, is a porous material and grows tightly inside tissues, with a slightly higher risk of infectious complications due to its porosity.
Who Should Have Facial Implants Procedure?
Ideal candidates for a facial implants procedure are usually men or women who want to improve the appearance of their faces and achieve a more balanced, symmetrical appearance. Anyone can opt for this procedure to add definition to the jawline, cheeks, chin, and other facial features.
The procedure is generally considered safe for healthy adults with realistic expectations of the result. It is always best to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if facial implant surgery is right for you. During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your general health, facial structure, and goals for the procedure to determine if you are a good candidate for facial implant surgery. They will also discuss the possible risks and complications associated with the process.
It is important to remember that facial implant surgery is a personal decision and should do after careful consideration and thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon. The procedure doesn’t recommend for people with a history of keloid scarring, bleeding disorders, or certain medical conditions that may increase the risk of complications.
It is also essential to be mentally and physically healthy, has realistic expectations, and not be under pressure from external factors. The ideal candidate would be someone who wants to improve their self-confidence and overall appearance and is willing to take the time to recover properly after surgery.
What are the Risks of the Facial Implants Process?
The risks of facial implants may arise during the surgical procedure, during anesthesia, or in the post-operative period. Complications may vary in severity, and very rarely, severe complications may occur, particularly in patients with worsening general conditions or severe drug allergies. Very rarely, damage to essential structures under the skin (vessels, nerves) may occur. We cannot make a complete list of all possible complications. However, the most common complications are bleeding, wound infection, blood circulation disorders at the wound edges, healing conditions, and scar formation. Take a look at the risks of the facial implants process in general:
- Post-operative bleeding: In exceptional cases, surgical revision requires. This doesn’t affect the final effect of the operation, only slightly prolonging the treatment.
- Infection: In case of infection, prolonged administration of antibiotics is required, possibly draining the wound. In case of illness, the infected implant must be removed and reinserted every 6-12 months.
- Necrosis: Death of a part of the skin after the procedure is rare. Necrosis specialists should surgically remove and reconstruct the defect. Skin necrosis occurs more frequently in smokers and in recurrent surgeries.
- Injury of facial nerve branches: This risk is a rare but possible complication. In most cases, the condition resolves spontaneously after rehabilitation; in case of injury to a larger nerve trunk, suturing the nerve with surgical revision and long-term repair require.
- Injury of sensitive nerves as the skin highly mobilizes: This is widespread. The condition resolves spontaneously, or surgical revision and suturing of the nerve are required.
- Pulmonary embolism, venous thrombosis: Especially pulmonary embolism is a severe complication that can lead to permanent consequences in terms of cardiac load or threaten the patient’s life. This risk is negligible in operations performed under local anesthesia.
- Prominent scars (large, hypertrophic, keloid): This surgery is less joint than other surgeries. Spots usually locate on the oral cavity’s mucous membrane or the conjunctiva.
Risks associated with implants may include:
- Fibrous capsule: It is a physiological reaction of the body to the presence of a foreign body following the placement of an implant. A capsule constantly forms around implants and is usually very thin. However, contracture of the capsule surrounding the implant may manifest as hardening, discomfort or pain, and deformation of the skin over the implant.
- Calcification formation: Although the etiology is unknown. Patient-reported cases are rare, and calcification of the scar capsule is known to occur after the implantation of a foreign body. Post-implantation microcalcification typically occurs as a thin coating or deposits on or around the fibrous capsule. Excessive microcalcification can cause hardening, discomfort, and even pain around the implant.
- Cracking of implants: Facial implants consist of a solid block of softer silicone or complex pore. Therefore, they cannot crack.
- Hematoma or seroma: Hematomas and serous fluid accumulation are complications associated with invasive surgery. Post-operative hematomas and seromas may cause infection and capsular contracture. Hematomas and seromas may be resorbed or need to be removed by aspiration or surgery.
- Implant slippage: Unstable or weakened tissue coverage or impaired wound healing can cause implant exposure and thrust.
What Will You Encounter During a Facial Implants Consultation?
During a facial implant consultation, you can expect to have a detailed discussion with your surgeon about your goals and expectations for the procedure. The surgeon will also evaluate your general health and facial structure to determine if you are a good candidate for facial implant surgery. Also, during the consultation, the surgeon will perform many different procedures, including:
- The surgeon will examine the areas of your face you want to improve, such as the chin, cheeks, or chin.
- The specialist will take pictures of your face. In addition, the doctor will measure the dimensions of your face, and the specific areas doctor will treat.
- You will discuss with your specialist the different types of facial implants available, including materials and sizes. Your doctor explains the surgical procedure and healing process at this stage.
- You can also discuss the risks and potential complications of the procedure with your doctor at this stage. It would be best if you also told your surgeon about your medical history and current medications.
- At the consultation, the surgeon explains the costs involved. If you wish, the doctor provides you with before and after photos of previous patients. Being honest with your surgeon about your expectations, medical history, and the medications you take is essential.
- The surgeon will also give you detailed instructions on preparing for surgery. The consultation is an opportunity to ask your questions and gain insight into the surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and approach to the procedure. It would be best if you chose an experienced plastic surgeon with whom you will feel comfortable and whose philosophy coincides with yours.
How Should You Prepare for Facial Implants Procedure?
It would be best to consider a few things before a facial implant procedure. Check out the preparation for the facial implants procedure:
- You should inform your surgeon about your medical condition. This may include your medical history, medical conditions, prescription medications, and food or drug allergies.
- Discuss the goals of the surgery, current health problems, risks, potential complications, and treatment with a highly competent and experienced plastic surgeon.
- It is essential to indicate whether you are at high risk for immunodeficiency and medical conditions. These can be health problems that can hinder healing and cause an infection. This helps prevent serious complications during or after the procedure.
- Your doctor must know if you are using blood thinners or any other medication that may affect blood clotting.
- You should avoid taking supplements and vitamins for a few days or hours before starting treatment. It can be vitamin E, ginseng extract, grape oil, and fish oil. It will also help if you stop taking it for at least one month after treatment.
- Avoid alcohol and other substances 1-2 days before the treatment and 5-7 days after the operation.
- It is also essential to avoid smoking for at least two weeks before and after surgery. This is because cigarettes contain chemicals that can alter blood oxygen levels. Therefore, it causes infection and a slower healing process.
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements for at least two weeks, as they can worsen bleeding and bruising.
- Avoid eating and drinking at least 6 hours before surgery.
- Make sure to wash your hair thoroughly before the operation.
- Make sure that there are no make-up, contact lenses, varnishes, and other accessories that may interfere with the process.
- If you are 45 years of age or older, you may be asked to undergo a full health check before starting treatment. This is necessary to prevent various age-related risks.
What are the Types of Facial Implants?
Check out the types of facial implants in general:
- Jaw or chin implants: This prosthesis is suitable for patients with a congenital low chin or those who want to increase their chin protrusion and improve their profile. In this surgery, the surgeon makes an incision inside the patient’s mouth, especially near the lower gums. This incision allows the specialists to reach the jaw and create a pocket to place the implant. The result of facial surgery will be a protruding and balanced chin compared to other features of the face, especially the nose and lips.
- Cheek implants: Specialists use cheek implants in patients with a flat midface and discomfort when looking in the mirror. Cheek implants fill the space between the eye and the chin. Specialists begin the surgical procedure by applying local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Then the specialists make an incision on each side of the inside of the mouth, above the upper gums. Experts fill the existing space and fix the facial implants to the cheekbone of the face using sutures or screws. Since it will remain in the mouth at the end of the surgery, there will be no visible scar.
- Mandibular angle implants: Men mainly requested plastic surgery, as these facial implants help the lower chin angle appear square and prominent. This plastic surgery begins with the intraoral method (inside the oral cavity) near the lower gums. Experts place the implants, fix them and end the process by setting the necessary stitches.
How is the Facial Implants Procedure Performed?
Facial implant surgery typically performs outpatient under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The specific steps of the procedure may vary depending on the type and location of the implant, but overall the process is simple. No need to worry! Before the operation, your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on preparing for the procedure. Your surgeon may ask you to stop taking certain medications or not to eat or drink for a certain period before surgery. Check out the steps of the facial implant in general:
- Anesthesia
Your surgeon will administer general anesthesia or IV sedation to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
- Incision
The surgeon will make an incision in a hidden place, such as the inside of the mouth or hairline, to access the area where the implant will place.
- Placement of the implant
The surgeon will create a pocket in the underlying bone or tissue and carefully pocket the implant. The implant will be positioned and adjusted to achieve the desired shape and symmetry.
- Closing the incision
The surgeon will close the incision with sutures or skin glue. In some cases, drains may place to remove excess fluid. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room to monitor until you are stable enough to go home. You will give detailed instructions on how to take care of yourself at home, including how to deal with pain, swelling, and bruising. The surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to check your progress and remove the stitches.
It is important to remember that the healing time will vary depending on the type of implant, location, and the person’s healing process. Typically, patients can return to work and normal activities within a few weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to become visible.
What to Consider After Facial Implants Procedure?
Sometimes specialists place an elastic bandage or a unique sleeve on the face after the procedure. You should wear bandages or armbands 24 hours daily, removing them only for personal hygiene. Your wounds are sensitive after surgery. For the first 5 days, you should apply cold compresses carefully but carefully. Sleeping on your back, head high, or semi-sitting position is suitable. You should also avoid bending forward and all physical activities that raise the heart rate and blood pressure. Take care not to dislodge the implant. Facial implant surgery is a necessary procedure that requires proper care and attention during the recovery period to achieve the best results. Here are the things to consider after the process:
- Pain and discomfort: You may feel pain and discomfort after the procedure. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to manage any pain you may have. Taking medicine as directed and avoiding any activity that may aggravate the surgical site is essential.
- Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are joint after facial implant surgery. Your surgeon will give you instructions on managing these symptoms, which usually resolve within a few weeks.
- Follow-up appointments: Your surgeon will schedule appointments to check your progress and remove the stitches. It is essential to attend all scheduled meetings and raise your concerns to your surgeon.
- Post-operative instructions: It is essential to follow the after-operative instructions given by your surgeon to ensure proper healing. These may include instructions on how to care for the surgical site, how to manage swelling and pain, and when to return to work and other everyday activities.
- Hygiene: Keeping the surgical site clean is imperative to prevent infection. Your surgeon will give detailed instructions on how to care for the surgical site and when to start rewashing your face.
- Avoid sun exposure: Sun exposure can cause skin discoloration. Protecting the surgical area from the sun for several weeks after the procedure is crucial.
What is the Recovery Process After Facial Implants?
The recovery process after facial implant surgery will vary depending on the type of implant, the location of the implant, and the healing process of the person. Take a look at the recovery process after facial implants in general:
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions about when to return to work and do other routine activities. You will need to avoid strenuous activities, bending over or lifting heavy objects for a few weeks after surgery.
- It is imperative to keep the surgical site clean to prevent infection. Your surgeon will give detailed instructions on how to care for the surgical site and when to start rewashing your face.
- Recovery time will depend on the type of implant and the location of the implant. Typically, patients can return to work and normal activities within a few weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to become visible.
- Remember that healing takes time, and it may take several months for the final results to become visible. It’s essential to be patient and avoid any activity compromising the healing process.
- Also, remember that the procedure will improve your appearance but not change who you are. It is essential to have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcome and understand that the results may not be exactly as you imagine them. It is necessary to follow your surgeon’s instructions and recommendations for the best possible result. Don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon if you have any concerns or questions about your recovery.
- Your stitches will remain for about 10-14 days. You can wash carefully without pulling the skin around the scars.
- You can rub the wounds with a disinfectant solution. Likewise, a feeling of pulling, tension, and decreased sensitivity are normal. You can evaluate the final aesthetic result after 8 weeks at the earliest and 3-6 months at the latest.
How Long After Facial Implants Will You See the Final Result?
You can see the results of the facial implant procedure almost instantly. The initial swelling of the face reduces within the first week with cold compresses, and this reduction continues for the next 2-4 weeks. Swelling after facial implant completely disappears within 1-2 months, and the final result is evident.
Also, your jaw will swell, harden, and possibly bleed after surgery. Applying cold compresses for the first 48 hours and keeping the upper part of the body elevated at rest will significantly reduce swelling. There might be less swelling and bleeding if experts used cosmetic injections as the first treatment to enhance your face. You will see the final results more clearly, in the long run, following face and chin implants. Follow-up consultations with your surgeon are the best way to ensure overall results.
How Much Do Facial Implants Cost?
Facial implants cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant, the location, and the surgeon’s fees. Facial implant surgery is a cosmetic procedure and isn’t typically covered by health insurance.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the cost of facial implants in the United States ranges from $2500 to $3669. However, prices can vary widely depending on location, surgeon’s experience, and the type of implant used. Considering additional costs such as anesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative follow-up appointments would be best. Before planning the surgery, it is crucial to get a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the procedure.
It’s also worth noting that cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision-making process. It would be best if you chose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon with whom you will feel comfortable and whose philosophy coincides with yours. You should also consider their satisfied patient record, their level of experience, and the quality of their work. It always recommends consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon to understand better the costs associated with facial implant surgery and determine if financing options are available.
In Which Countries is the Cheapest Facial Implants Procedure Performed?
Facial implants cost can vary greatly depending on country and location. Generally, lower costs of living countries will offer lower prices for medical procedures, including this procedure. Some countries are known to provide lower prices for medical procedures. For example, Mexico offers the facial implant procedure at a fraction of the cost of the USA and Canada. Also, Turkey has a well-developed medical tourism industry and a reputation for high-quality medical care at a lower price than many other countries.
Although the cost of facial implant surgery is lower in these countries, it is always important to consider the qualifications and experience of the surgeon, as well as the accreditation and standards of the facility where the procedure will perform. Here are facial implants costs by country:
| COUNTRY | COST |
| United States | $3000 to $3669 |
| Brazil | $1500 to $2350 |
| China | $3100 to $4000 |
| Japan | $2000 to $6500 |
| South Korea | $2000 to $3500 |
| India | $2200 to $2600 |
| Argentina | $1255 to $2180 |
| Mexico | $1500 to $2137 |
| Germany | $2300 to $3250 |
| Turkey | $1300 to $2500 |
| Colombia | $1600 to $2500 |
| Italy | $2200 to $3100 |
| France | $2300 to $3700 |
| Spain | $2500 to $3500 |
| Taiwan | $3000 to $3800 |
| Venezuela | $2000 to $3100 |
| United Kingdom | $6500 to $7500 |
| Netherlands | $2250 to $3000 |
| Egypt | $1750 to $2250 |
| Peru | $1500 to $2300 |
| AVERAGE COST | $1255 to $7500 |
Attention: For Information Purposes Only
Please note that the content of this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always consult a specialist surgeon for personal guidance.
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