Facial Implants

What are Facial Implants?

Facial implants are sculpted pieces of silicone or other substances that are placed in the chin, cheeks or jaw to enhance the contours of the face. They may be used to help strengthen a jaw line or to balance the chin or cheekbones with the rest of the face.

Who is a good candidate for Facial Implants?

Candidates must be in good health, have no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions, and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery. Plastic surgeons will frequently use facial implants to balance the features of a younger patient, or in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure in a more mature patient. An implant placed over the cheekbones may help restore a more youthful appearance in some patients. Implants may also help fill out a face that appears "sunken" or tired. Jaw implants can help strengthen the jaw line, improving the proportions of the face.

NOTE: You may not be a candidate for surgery if you smoke, have recently quit smoking, or if you are exposed to second-hand smoke. Primary and secondary smoking decreases blood flow to the body's tissues. This can result in prolonged wound healing, skin loss, infection, increased scarring, and a number of other complications depending on the kind of procedure performed. Click here for more information related to smoking.

How is the procedure performed?

There are a number of implants available. Implants may be manufactured from a variety of materials, including silicone or other substances. There is no available evidence to suspect that silicone implants cause any disease. Your surgeon will consult with you, and discuss recommendations for the type of implant to use.

During cheek implant surgery, an incision is made inside the mouth or along the lower eyelid, creating a pocket into which the implant is inserted. If another cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery is being performed at the same time, the implants may be inserted through those incisions. A chin implant procedure inserts the implant into a pocket in front of the jawbone. An incision is made either inside the mouth along the lower lip, or just below the chin area. During a jaw implant procedure, incisions for the implant are made on either side of the lower lip.

Option to enhance the procedure

Facial implants are often used in conjunction with a face lift, nose surgery (rhinoplasty), an eye lift or a forehead lift.

List of Physicians Who Perform Facial Implants

For details about education, experience, and specialty in this clinical area, please visit these physician profile pages:

  • David L. Brown, M.D.
  • Paul S. Cederna, M.D.

Planning for Your Surgery

First, schedule a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you'd like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and what long-term benefits you will experience. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation:

  • Provide a complete medical history. Include information about any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
  • Expect your surgeon to conduct a complete examination of your face, including the skin and underlying bone.
  • Be prepared to discuss possible risks and complications of the procedure.

Preparing for Your Surgery

You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. A pre-operative information packet will be provided that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your surgeon will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. You may also want to make arrangements for someone to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital.

Where Your Surgery Will be Performed

Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals' state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis.

Types of Anesthesia

You'll remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In most cases, general anesthetic is used so that you will sleep throughout the procedure; although local anesthesia with intravenous sedation is also an option for some patients.

After Your Surgery

Click here for information about how to care for yourself after the surgery and what to expect during your recovery. It is very important that you follow your surgeon's instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.