Chin Implant

Does a weak chin make your other facial features seem out of balance? If so, a chin implant- augmentation mentoplasty-may be part of the solution. Augmentation mentoplasy is a relatively minor procedure that can make a dramatic difference in a person's appearance. Often, a chin implant is done in conjunction with other facial plastic surgery to improve the balance of ones facial features. Some consider a chin implant the "icing on the cake!" Chin surgery adds little to the cost and length of an operation and does not significantly increase the risk. There are many types of chin implants available. Your surgeon will select the implant best suited for you.

To perform a chin implant, the surgeon makes a small incision under the chin. The implant is slipped into the pocket created by the incision. Once healed, the scar is scarcely visible. Local anesthesia and mild intravenous sedation are most often used, although you may receive stronger anesthesia if you are having more than one procedure done at the same time.

Your chin will be tender and swollen for several days post-operatively. Normal activities may be resumed approximately ten days after surgery.

Malar Augmentation

The elusive concept of ideal beauty is base on a harmony of facial contours. One of the chief elements of facial harmony is the presentation and positioning of the cheekbones. If underdeveloped cheekbones give your face a flat appearance, you may benefit from a procedure called malar augmentation, more simply, cheek implants.

Malar augmentation will give the face a more youthful appearance and can improve facial harmony by de-emphasizing a prominent nose or projecting chin. Much consideration must accompany the insertion of cheek implants. Before deciding on surgery, your surgeon will analyze your face, take a number of photographs from different angles, and thoroughly explore your motivation for having surgery and your expectations about the results.

It is important to understand that there is a great difference in the structure of every cheekbone. There are a number of different types of implants available. Your doctor will determine which is best suited for you. The incision used for placing the implant is made inside the mouth between the upper gums and the cheek. The soft cheek tissue is elevated, and a pocket is created over the cheekbone. The implant is slid through the incision and held with sutures, which usually dissolve after six days.

Local anesthetics with mild intravenous sedation are used when inserting the cheek implants. The surgery is performed in an outpatient surgery center. Your face may be somewhat swollen for about two weeks and it may be difficult to chew. You may also experience tightness or numbness around the area of your cheeks. Improvement is seen immediately, however, the final result may take several weeks.