COVID-19 UPDATE: As of May 11, 2020, we have re-opened our office to regular in-person appointments. We are operating at a lower-than-normal capacity in order to respect social distancing advisories and best protect the health of our patients. We are still offering telemedicine as an option. For more information please call us at (314) 996-8800.

FACIAL IMPLANTS

BALANCE AND ENHANCE THE UNDERLYING STRUCTURE OF THE FACE IN ST. LOUIS

For patients who want to give their face a fuller, more youthful appearance, facial implants are an option to consider. Facial implants at St. Louis’ West County Plastic Surgeons of Washington University can improve the balance and proportions of the face and its various features by augmenting specific areas and improving the physical structure of a face. Additionally, this cosmetic surgery strategy can be a way of restoring the shape of the face after aging, trauma, or disease.

WHAT ARE FACIAL IMPLANTS?

Facial implants are a cosmetic surgery option that involves altering facial contours as a way of improving balance. The cheeks, chin, and jaw are common areas for facial implants to be used, though it is possible to get implants in other areas of the face as well. Facial implants improve structure, definition, and contours of the face while adding volume. They can strengthen certain areas or balance them with the rest of the face. If your face looks sunken or tired, implants can improve proportion in a way that makes you look revitalized.

Typically, facial implants are sculpted pieces of synthetic materials like silicone or other solids compatible with human tissue. The surgeon will assess your features and goals to help you decide which type or size of facial implants will be most effective for you.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF IMPLANTS FOR ENHANCING FACIAL CONTOURS?

Facial cheek implants can be used to elevate recessed or flattened cheekbones, provide structure and volume, and help re-drape lax skin. Chin implants are used to define the jawline and correct a receded jaw by increasing both the size and projection of the chin. Jaw implants increase the width of the lower face. Our plastic surgeons are usually able to insert implants without visible external scars.

WHO ARE THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR FACIAL IMPLANTS?

If your head and skull have reached physical maturity and you have certain facial features you want to augment, you may be a candidate for facial implants. Ideal candidates include those who are in good physical health, are non-smokers, and have realistic goals for improving the contours of their face with facial implants. If you would like to enhance your appearance; are self-conscious or bothered by having a small chin, weak jaw, or lack of defined facial contours; and have realistic expectations of the results, this procedure could be suitable for you.

Dr. Terry Myckatyn, MD and Dr. Marissa Tenenbaum, MD

Dr. Terry Myckatyn and
Dr. Marissa Tenenbaum:

Trusted. Experienced. Committed.

FACIAL IMPLANTS SURGERY: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Initial improvements can be seen right away after getting implants, but you may have to wait several months for swelling to completely go down to see the ultimate results. Patients may experience some localized swelling, numbness, discoloration, and discomfort during the early stages of recovery. It’s also common for facial movements to be restricted at first.

The results from this cosmetic surgery are long-lasting. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s specific guidelines for how you should care for yourself at home following the operation. The final results should be subtle but noticeable.

Here’s what you should know about the procedure and recovery at a glance:

Anesthesia: General anesthesia.

Length of Procedure: 1 to 2 hours

Estimated recovery time: You can return to work after 1 to 3 weeks, but should avoid vigorous activities for 4 weeks. Visible bruising or swelling should clear up within 1 to 4 weeks. To learn how to prepare for facial implants and what to expect afterward, click here to download our patient instructions for facial implants.

Side effects: Common side effects include bruising, swelling, and numbness in the area where the implant was placed.

WHICH COSMETIC PROCEDURES COMPLEMENT FACIAL IMPLANTS?

Facial implants are often performed in conjunction with other facial cosmetic surgery procedures, including facelift, midface lift, rhinoplasty, brow lift, and lower eyelid lift or upper eyelid lift surgery.

Implants offer a more long-lasting solution to restoring facial volume than either injectable fillers or fat grafts, but dermal fillers like JUVEDERM® and RHA® are an option for patients who want more volume in specific facial areas but are not yet ready for surgery.

Chin implants are occasionally done in isolation, but are often combined with rhinoplasty, facelift and neck lift surgeries.


If you have questions or would like to book a consultation with one of the surgeons at West County Plastic Surgery, please call (314) 996-8800.

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