Chin & Cheek Implants

While the eyes and nose are often considered the most salient features of the face, the chin and cheekbones can have a very significant impact on our appearance. Their contours are a crucial foundation for the face and neck as a whole. Skin in these areas may become lax, fat may subside and jowling may occur, leading to asymmetry and a loss of the tightness and volume that are associated with a youthful look.

Surgeons use facial implants to strategically counter the effects of the aging process, reshaping and rejuvenating these areas to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing profile. Implants can be used to address a naturally weak or recessed chin, an undefined jawline, unbalanced facial or nasal features, and sunken cheekbones. Facial implants are designed to be permanent, and because they largely remain stable, the effects of these surgeries can be long-lasting.

This does not mean that results are static, however. While contours and symmetry persist, the natural aging process will continue. This can lead to changes in skin elasticity and bone resorption, impacting your overall facial structure and potentially affecting the appearance of implants over time, particularly in the cheek area.

Overall, chin implants are more commonly used than cheek implants due to their high level of safety and effectiveness in addressing the common issue of a recessed chin. Cheek implants have a higher rate of infection than chin implants; as a result, some physicians tend to recommend fillers, fat grafting, or a deep plane facelift for cheek augmentation.

Be sure to discuss your goals and realistic expectations with your surgeon, as well as the benefits and risks of various approaches.

Incisions for cheek and chin implants are typically made in inconspicuous locations to minimize visible scarring. For cheek implants, the incisions are often made inside the mouth along the upper gum line, allowing for a scarless result. Chin implant incisions are commonly made either inside the mouth, along the lower gum line, or externally beneath the chin.

While an incision under the chin may result in more visible scarring, it typically heals extremely well and has a lower risk of complications compared to placing the chin implant inside the gum line, which carries a higher risk of infection and misalignment. Additionally, the submental incision offers direct access to the chin bone, allowing for precise placement and secure fixation of the implant, further reducing the likelihood of shifting or movement over time. It is a preferred choice for many surgeons.

The choice of incision location depends on the specific surgical technique and the surgeon’s preference. When a chin implant is performed at the same time as a rhinoplasty or neck lift, the procedures must be carefully coordinated to ensure optimal facial balance and symmetry. Your surgeon must consider your overall facial structure and make precise adjustments to both the nose and chin, which may be more complex than performing a chin implant alone.

Before you go

During a chin or cheek implant consultation, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your facial structure and a discussion of your aesthetic goals. Your surgeon may use digital morphing technology to show potential outcomes, particularly for chin implants, helping you to visualize the changes. It’s important to ask about the type and size of the implant recommended for your specific needs, as well as any potential risks and complications, such as infection, implant shifting, or asymmetry.

The three most common types of chin or cheek implants are silicone, porous polyethylene (Medpor), and Gore-Tex. Silicone implants are the most commonly used type because they are easy to insert and remove, although they can occasionally shift over time. Medpor implants integrate well with surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of movement, but they are more challenging to remove if needed. Gore-Tex implants offer a balance of flexibility and tissue integration, but they can be more expensive and may still pose a risk of shifting. All implants have a risk of getting infected since they are made of synthetic materials.

During the procedure

Chin and cheek augmentation procedures may be performed under local sedation or general anesthesia; either way you will be pain-free and comfortable throughout the surgery. The choice between local sedation and general anesthesia often depends on the extent of the procedure and patient preference.

The duration of these surgeries typically ranges from one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional facial enhancements, such as rhinoplasty or a neck lift, are being performed simultaneously. This time frame allows the surgeon to carefully place the implants and make any necessary adjustments, to help ensure optimal results.

Sterile handling of implants during cheek and chin implant surgery is critical to prevent infection and ensure proper integration with the surrounding tissues. Meticulous attention to sterilization protocols minimizes the risk of complications, promotes healing, and helps achieve the best possible surgical outcomes.

In most cases, you can expect to go home the same day the surgery is performed, thanks to the relatively short recovery period immediately following the procedure. Post-operative instructions will be provided to ensure a smooth and successful recovery, including guidelines on managing swelling, pain, and any other side effects.

Chin & Cheek Implants Aftercare 

You can anticipate wearing a compression garment or bandages to support the implant area and minimize swelling for the first few days. While visible swelling and bruising typically continue for the first few weeks, you can expect to return to everyday activities within one to two weeks and exercise within three to four weeks.

The final, more refined results may take several months to become fully apparent. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are crucial during the recovery period to monitor progress, address any concerns, and ensure a successful outcome.