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Facial implants can help you make corrections to various facial contours. These procedures involve introducing solid materials to enhance and reshape the chin, cheek, and jawline, whether for cosmetic or medical correction. Facial implants are customizable and can last for several years; however, they can also be removed should they need to be.

Are Facial Implants Permanent?

Facial implant surgery is different from other types of facial surgeries that address aging concerns, such as facelift surgery or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery). These age-related surgeries are performed to tighten lax skin and tissues; however, they do not augment the internal facial structure. Implants do. 

Facial implants are inserted beneath the skin and permanently affixed to the bone—essentially becoming part of the bone structure. Because of this, results are not likely to fade as fast as age-related facial surgeries because the implants will not continue to age and degrade as facial tissues do.

In reality, without a complication that requires the removal of the implant, facial augmentation— whether cheek, chin, or jawline—is considered to be permanent. 

Even though facial implants do not directly relate to the skin, age-related laxity can and will still occur, which will lead to an older-looking appearance. This process, however, will not impact the placement or shape of the implants.

Which Is Better for Me: Implants or Fillers?

While implants are an ideal way to add volume and shape to the face, they are not the only way. Many women and men consider non-surgical facial fillers, an “alternative” treatment for volume restoration. 

Here, injectable facial fillers are introduced intradermally or beneath the dermis to restore lost volume, including cheek volume. While injectables are used to “plump” the skin and add shape, these non-invasive treatments cannot add as much contour as implants can. 

Fillers are best used to restore the lost volume causing deep lines and wrinkles, such as those found around the nose and mouth and under the eyes.

Facial fillers can be used with facial implants to restore balance and total facial fullness.

What Should I Know Before My Facial Implant Surgery?

How Long Does the Facial Implant Procedure Take to Perform?

On average, most facial implants take 30 to 60 minutes to place, but the duration will depend on the procedure you are getting done. There are also things to do before the surgery, including avoiding specific medication and foods and quitting smoking. Your plastic surgeon will advise you on the preparations required to ensure you are the right candidate for the successful placement of facial implants. It is also recommended to plan early and give yourself time to prepare for the surgery as you learn how facial implants work. The procedure is usually done under IV sedation using local anesthesia. Make sure you ask enough questions to clear your doubts and worries heading into the process.

How Long Will It Take to Heal?

Recovery following facial implants takes a relatively short time when compared to other surgeries. Successfully placed facial implants will leave tiny wounds from the incisions made—commonly inside the mouth or beneath the chin. However, you should be fully recovered within seven to 14 days. 

It is advised to take at least a week off work. You can also boost your healing process by taking all the necessary post-surgery precautions, such as replacing your typical meals with smoothies, shakes, yogurts, and soft food. You may experience swelling, redness, discoloration, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first few days, and Dr. Calabria may recommend creams or other medications based on your needs.

How Long Until the Next Visit?

Although facial implants take under an hour to place, your surgeon will need to check up on the progress and address any emerging issues. Your doctor will inform you about the next appointment and explain what to expect during your healing process. Facial implants and fillers might shift, calling for another surgery, or suffer an infection. 

You should see the doctor in case of abnormal swelling, intense fever, extreme pain, abnormal discharge from the incisions, or if you feel odd.

Interested in Learning More?

You can view Dr. Calabria’s photo gallery to see the facial implant results he has helped his patients achieve.

If you would like to request your consultation with Dr. Calabria, call our Palm Springs office at (760) 836-0077.