For patients who dislike aspects of their face – perhaps asymmetry, or disproportionately large or small bone structure in the chin, jaw, or cheeks – the results of a facial implant surgery can often be a positive investment in self esteem. After all, the face is what we most associate with individuals and where we derive many of our first impressions; some self-consciousness, then, is normal.
Facial implant surgery can be used to add to the contours of the face in places where we feel our bone structure is not sufficiently prominent. Implants to yield a stronger chin can often be inserted in less than one hour and, depending on the patient’s facial features, the incision can often be placed inside the mouth to avoid visible scarring. Cheek implants to raise the prominence of the cheekbones can also be inserted in about one hour, with incisions often being made inside the upper lip to avoid visible scarring. Jaw implants can take up to two hours to insert through incisions placed inside the lower lip, resulting in a more distinct jaw line from chin connecting the chin to the ear. Any of these procedures may also be combined with other facial surgeries, such as a face lift, to minimize the total recovery time for a patient.
It is also possible to remove some material in the same locations as implants can be placed to give a less distinct appearance. However, because such procedures are personal to the unique patient’s features and wishes, they cannot easily be described here. If you would like more information about facial reductions, please contact our offices to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ziesmann.
As with all surgeries of the face, bruising and swelling are unpredictable because all patients will respond differently. Generally, bruising is not significant beyond a week after the procedure and swelling may take a month or longer to completely subside. Patients should inform Dr. Ziesmann if they are smokers, have any teeth or gum problems, or are taking any medications (prescribed or otherwise, such as aspirin) prior to their surgery. If you would like more information about facial reconstructions, please contact our offices to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ziesmann so that he may address you concerns and answer your questions.
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