AM I A CANDIDATE FOR A FACIAL IMPLANT?

A facial implant can bring balance and proportion to the face, while augmenting features that you may find lacking. If you believe a facial implant might be right for you, contact the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago for a consultation. Ideal candidates are in generally good physical health, non-smokers, and have no medical conditions that may impair the healing process. Facial implants are usually only performed on adults whose face and head have reached full maturity.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION

During your consultation with the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we will review your aesthetic goals and your medical history to ensure that you are a good candidate for a facial implant. We do not perform any procedure unless we are certain that it is the absolute best treatment plan for each individual patient. We will perform a facial evaluation, discuss your treatment options, and explain every step of the process through to recovery and the potential risks associated with facial implants.

HOW FACIAL IMPLANTS ARE PERFORMED

Depending on your personal aesthetic goals, the manner in which a facial implant is performed will differ. First, a general anesthetic is administered. Then the plastic surgeon will make incisions based on the specific area that you wish to augment or enhance.

Incisions are made inside the mouth, if possible, or otherwise in a place that can easily be concealed. For a chin implant, the incisions are typically made either inside the mouth along the lower gum line, or outside the mouth just beneath the chin. Jaw implants are usually placed through an incision inside the mouth along the jaw line. For cheek implants, the incision may be inside the mouth or, if coupled with another surgical procedure, just below the lower eyelid.

Once the implant is inserted, the incisions are closed with sutures. Though swelling and bruising will persist for a short while, the results of a facial implant will be noticeable immediately following surgery.

RECOVERY AFTER A FACIAL IMPLANT

Bruising and swelling is normal after a facial implant, and will typically persist for at least a few weeks after the procedure is complete. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication and issue post-surgical care instructions; it is always important to follow these instructions thoroughly to ensure proper healing.

Do not use ice directly on the surgical site, since that will reduce blood flow and delay healing. Sutures can usually be removed within seven to ten days after the procedure is performed. Your surgeon will let you know when you are able to resume your normal level of physical activity.

POTENTIAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FACIAL IMPLANTS

The potential complications generally associated with facial implants may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Changes in skin sensation
• Shifting of implant
• Skin sensitivity
• Allergies to implant material

You should call your doctor if any of these symptoms occur or persist. The Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago takes every precaution to minimize risk by using the safest, most innovative techniques. You can also reduce the risk of complication by adhering strictly to all instructions from your plastic surgeon.

WHAT DOES A FACIAL IMPLANT COST?

Due to the varied nature of facial implants, it is difficult to give any specific averages for facial implant surgery. Your location, plastic surgeon, and individual treatment plan will further affect the total cost of a facial implant. Since it is considered a cosmetic surgery, health insurance rarely covers this type of procedure. During your consultation, speak with your plastic surgeon about the cost associated with a facial implant.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you have questions about facial implants or believe you are a good candidate, contact us at the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago for a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. We will perform a facial evaluation and, if a facial implant is right for you, help you reach your aesthetic goals.

All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.