Prominent cheekbones and a strong chin provide balance, definition, and beauty. Corrective procedures have made it possible to enhance a receding chin and provide high cheekbones. Chin implants (mentoplasty) and cheek implants (malar augmentation) are surgeries, which provide a more distinctive and attractive look. They are also performed to correct traumatic or congenital (birth) asymmetries.

Facial implants are frequently combined with other surgeries. For some, aging results not only in loss of facial muscle tone and sagging skin, but also a loss of cheek fullness. Cheek implants can recreate a more natural youthful appearance when combined with facelift surgery. It also increases the longevity of the facelift result. Chin implants are frequently performed along with neck liposuction or necklifts to further enhance the neckline and add longevity to the rejuvenated result. For many, enhancing the facial structure can delay the need for a necklift and or facelift. Chin implants are frequently combined with rhinoplasty surgery. A common complaint is that of an overly prominent nose. A common cause for this is a receding chin. Over-reduction of the size of the nose to compensate for a week chin can create facial disharmony and an unnatural profile. By enhancing the chin along with conservative nasal surgery, a more natural facial profile is achieved. During the consultation, Dr. Wooten performs video imaging so his patients can see what changes would benefit them the most and how this will affect their appearance.

The Procedure

Cheek and chin implants are performed under light sedation on an outpatient basis. Chin implants are inserted through a small incision made in natural neck skin crease or through the mouth. Cheek implants are placed through two small incisions in the mouth.

Millions of facial implants have been used safely for many years without systemic immune or allergic reactions. Non-toxic non-fluid filled materials, such as silicone (solid), and polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) are the most popular materials. There have been many recent technological advances in implant design. This has resulted in the ability to custom tailor the implant to the individuals needs providing a natural result.

Recovery

A small dressing is applied for a few days. Some post-operative discomfort is expected for a 2 to 3 days and is controlled by pain medication. Bruising may last for up to two weeks and is easily camouflaged with make up. Routine activities are resumed within a few days. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks. The swelling which can last several weeks does not limit ones return to routine activities. Temporary numbness may be present at the incision sites for several months.