Facial Implants

Implants are placed to enhance physical structures of the face that are lacking shape, balance and symmetry. A prime example is a chin implant, which is placed to increase the size and projection of a small or recessed chin, therefore balancing out the proportion between the forehead and mid-face. Other examples include cheek (malar) and jaw implants. Facial implants require the artistic eye of a talented plastic surgeon. Dr. Guyuron is an experienced facial implants surgeon. Due to Dr. Guyuron’s craniofacial training, he is able to visualize the areas of the face that need shape and volume and select the ideally sized and shaped implant based on the patient’s goals.

The surgical consultation is an opportunity for patients to discuss their ideal outcomes with Dr. Guyuron, so he can select the appropriate approach to treatment. Facial implants candidates may desire one or more of the following:

• Sculpted cheekbones
• More prominent chin
• Defined jawline

Facial implants can also be placed for reconstructive purposes.

After discussing the patient’s goals of surgery, Dr. Guyuron will inquire about his or her medical and health history to determine whether they are good candidates for surgery. He will discuss any potential risks, and lay out a treatment plan to achieve the patient’s objectives.

Dr. Guyuron instructs his patients to refrain from consumption of aspirin, NSAIDs and herbal products for three weeks before and a week after the surgery. Patients who do not reside in Cleveland but are considering treatment with Dr. Guyuron may schedule a phone, FaceTime or Skype consultation to discuss facial implants.

Facial implants are placed on an outpatient basis. Medications will be administered prior to surgery to keep the patient comfortable and relaxed. The surgical approach varies based on the type of implant being placed.

If Dr. Guyuron is performing chin augmentation with a chin implant, he will make an incision either inside the mouth, where the lower lips and gums meet, or underneath the chin. If he is placing a cheek implant, he will most likely make the incision in the mouth, but could also choose to make it inside the lower eyelid or within the hairline. Dr. Guyuron will gently create a pocket for the facial implant and position it inside.

Facial implants can be placed in conjunction with another plastic surgery procedure, such as rhinoplasty to reshape the nose, or brow lift to elevate the brow line. Dr. Guyuron can discuss these options during the surgical consultation.

The face may be swollen and bruised around the area where the implants were placed, but these side effects are only temporary. Any pain or discomfort can be controlled with oral medication. Recovery varies by patient, but most are back to work and their normal activities within a week or so. Strenuous activities should be avoided for three weeks. Dr. Guyuron will provide more specific instructions for recovery on a patient-by-patient basis.