Pre-formed solid silastic implants to contour facial structure have been in use since the mid-1960s. We were involved in developing a silastic facial implant for the chin, as well as a technique for implant placement. The safety of silastic Chin / Cheek Implants is well documented in a study we conducted for the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery in 1995. Silastic Chin / Cheek Implants are non-reactive and do not change or disintegrate over time and are designed to strengthen facial structure and help prevent sagging and aging.
Mentoplasty (Chin Augmentation)
An attractive, appropriately shaped jaw line is an important part of facial harmony. A receding chin produces facial imbalance. It makes the nose look larger, accentuates jowling and may produce an unflattering neckline.
We perform chin augmentation in our office's surgery suite with local anesthesia and/or IV sedation. This procedure takes about 1/2 hour and is done through a very small incision under the chin which does not leave a visible scar. In a matter of days most patients can return to their normal schedules. In the appropriate patient a mentoplasty combined with liposuction under the chin can mimic the effect of a lower facelift.
Cheek Implants (Malar Augmentation)
Cheek implants are permanent and have a low incidence of complications. The newer implants are designed to produce a very natural effect and are shaped and sized to either highlight a portion of the midface, or to fill it entirely. For example, it may be desirable to emphasize or create high cheekbones or to fill a sunken area beneath the cheekbones. This is particularly important since aging, and exercise, specifically jogging, can produce fat atrophy in the cheek resulting in a sunken, drawn appearance. The results can be subtle or dramatic, based on the patient's original facial structure and desires.
A malar augmentation is accomplished in our office in about an hour, while the patient is under local anesthesia and light sedation. Incisions are intra-oral and no dressings are required. Generally, the recuperation period is relatively brief.
Chin / Cheek Implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing them to be tailored to the particular patient. After surgery with Chin / Cheek Implants, some tenderness or discomfort can occur. Swelling and bruising are normal and will begin to fade within five days. Most patients are able to return to work within a week, though more strenuous activities will need to be postponed for longer.
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