Pleasing aesthetic balance of the face depends on the relative proportion of its key features. If the cheeks or chin are underdeveloped, recessed, or lose definition with age, the overall appearance of the face may seem out of harmony. Facial implants are designed to correct these concerns by adding structure and support where it is needed, creating better definition and more balanced facial features.
At Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Mark Beaty, offers cheek and chin implants to patients who wish to augment their natural structure, rejuvenate areas affected by aging, or correct facial imbalances.
What Are Facial Implants?
Facial implants are solid materials placed surgically to enhance or restore the contours of the face. The most common options are cheek implants, which add volume and definition to the midface, and chin implants, which strengthen the profile and improve proportion with the jawline. Unlike injectable fillers, implants provide long-lasting changes that do not require repeat treatments.
Facial Implant Before and After Photos
What Are the Different Types of Facial Implants?
Chin Implants
Chin implants reshape the chin and jawline by enhancing it with an implant. This can improve harmony and create more balanced features.. Chin implants can also correct:
- Natural imbalances of the chin with the jawline
- Receding chins caused by genetics
- Asymmetries of the jawline
- An undesirable chin shape
When the chin is too strong or too weak, the rest of the facial structure may appear disproportionate or out of balance.
Cheek Implants
Cheek augmentation enhances the midface by creating fuller, more defined cheekbones. Cheek implants improve overall contours, add youthful definition, and can restore volume lost with age. Patients often consider this procedure to correct a flattened midface, achieve higher cheekbones, or soften a gaunt appearance.
There are three general shapes of cheek implants that are used in cheek augmentation:
- Malar implants – These implants provide higher projection and are placed directly on the cheekbones.
- Submalar implants – These implants round out a sunken or gaunt appearance to provide more full cheeks.
- Combined implants – A combined implant augments both the cheeks and the cheekbones for a full rejuvenation.
In addition to these standard shapes, custom implants can be created to precisely match an individual’s unique facial structure and aesthetic goals. This level of personalization can be especially valuable for patients with significant asymmetries, previous trauma, or very specific contour preferences.
Dr. Beaty works closely with each patient to select the implant shape, or design a custom solution, that best supports their individual goals.
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Who Is a Good Candidate for Facial Implants?
Ideal candidates for facial implants are individuals who want to improve the balance or proportions of their features, whether by adding definition to the cheeks or strengthening the chin and jawline. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations of the results.
How Should I Prepare for Facial Implant Surgery?
Prior to the surgery, you will meet with Dr. Beaty to discuss your goals and expectations. About two weeks before the surgery, you will be instructed to discontinue taking anti-inflammatory supplements and medications. You will also be directed to refrain from alcohol one week prior to the procedure. In addition, smokers should stop smoking at least six weeks before undergoing cheek augmentation.
Dr. Beaty will meet with patients for an initial chin implant consultation. During this time, you will have the opportunity to share and discuss your personal goals and expectations of the procedure.
What Does the Facial Implant Procedure Involve?
Cheek Implant Procedure
Small, hidden incisions are typically made inside the mouth. The implants are inserted through these incisions and positioned to create fuller, more youthful contours. As an alternative, injectable fillers may be offered to temporarily build volume in the midface, but these results are not permanent.
Chin Implant Procedure
For chin implants, a small incision is made beneath the chin. A pocket is carefully created over the bone, and the implant is positioned and secured. The incision is then closed with sutures, leaving a discreet scar hidden beneath the chin.
Are Facial Implants Safe?
Facial implant surgery is considered safe when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon. At Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Beaty takes every precaution to minimize risks and ensure patient safety throughout the process. During your consultation, he will carefully evaluate your health history and facial anatomy to determine whether implants are the right option for you.
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks such as infection, shifting of the implant, or reaction to anesthesia, but these complications are rare. Following all pre- and post-operative instructions—including avoiding certain medications, discontinuing smoking, and practicing proper aftercare—can further reduce risks and support a smooth recovery.
What Can I Expect in My Recovery from Facial Implant Surgery?
Recovering from facial implant surgery may include some swelling and discomfort in the first few days. Many patients also notice temporary stiffness or difficulty moving the lips and mouth, which improves as healing progresses. Discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses.
For cheek implants, antibiotics and a special mouth rinse are provided. For chin implants, mild bruising and swelling beneath the chin is common, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly.
Most patients are able to return to normal activities within five to seven days, with final results becoming more refined as swelling subsides in the weeks that follow.
When Will I See My Facial Implant Surgery Results?
The results of facial implant surgery continue to improve as swelling decreases. For cheek implants, permanent results become more noticeable after several weeks to months as the implant integrates with the natural bone structure, creating a very natural-looking enhancement. Patients who undergo chin augmentation can expect a stronger, more balanced chin contour, with outcomes that are typically permanent as long as chin injuries are avoided and a stable weight is maintained.
Are Facial Implants Removable?
Although most patients are pleased with the results of facial implant surgery, cheek and chin implants can be removed if you decide that this surgery was not the right choice for you.
What Procedures Can Be Combined with Facial Implants?
Many patients who choose facial implant surgery also elect to undergo additional cosmetic procedures. Facial implants are often combined with a facelift, and, more commonly, a rhinoplasty. Facelift surgery allows the face to be rejuvenated and tightened while the implants improve the contour of the face. Undergoing rhinoplasty while getting facial implants allows the face to have a more balanced, even appearance.
Not everyone wants to undergo additional surgery. For these patients, we offer a variety of fillers for a full facial rejuvenation. Here at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery, we offer JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, Sculptra®, and RHA®. These are great options for improving the appearance of the face and smoothing wrinkles and lines.
See What Our Patients Are Saying!
"Dr. Beaty is the best! Professional and kind. Always has time to answer questions and makes you feel welcome. Great bedside manner and no wait times."
- Valerie
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Facial/Chin Implants Before & After Photos
Our providers specialize in non-surgical procedures, facial plastic surgery options and more.
If you would like to learn more about our services, please contact us to speak with one of our experts.
