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Facial implants have evolved from hardened implant materials to injectable liquids. Revolutionary materials such as polytetrafluoroethylene or ePTFE are replacing traditional silicon or collagen. Enhancing facial features, facial implants are rising in popularity.
Cheek Surgery- An incision is made inside the mouth (bottom of the lip). A pocket is made. The implant inserted into this pocket. Post-op there are diet and dental hygiene restrictions placed on the patient. The incision is bandaged and activity is limited. The patient finds it difficult to talk or move their lips, but improvement soon follows. Stitches dissolve in ten days.
Lower Jaw Surgery- Incision is made on the side of the lower lip. The implant is inserted or injected. Post-op the patient will experience noticeable swelling and bruising. Dental and dietary restrictions and low activity is ordered for several weeks. Stitches are dissolvable.
Chin surgery- The incision is made inside the mouth along the lower lip. A pocket is formed. The implant slipped into place. The incision is closed, the chin taped up. Sutures removed in one week, unless they are dissolvable. The patient experiences stiffness and discomfort when smiling or talking. Bruises are visible on the chin and neck.
Different materials are now available for implants: Silicon, ePTFE, hydroxyapatite, and alloderm. The advantage to the newer materials is they are user friendly and pliable. Recovery time is shorter. If the surgeon uses ePTFE he can inject antibiotics into the material prior to injecting it into the patient minimizing risk of infection.
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