What are Facial Implants?

Facial implants are FDA-approved plates that plastic surgeons place inside the face in order to improve a patient's appearance. In general, the implants balance the proportions of the face. Implants can be inserted into a person's chin, jaw, or cheeks and are made from a variety of materials.

Although facial implants can boost a patient's self-esteem, they are not the solution for those who seek perfection. They are best for those who only wish to improve the way they look. If a patient wishes to have her nose reshaped or her jaw strengthened, facial implants are an option. Older people who wish to have a more youthful appearance may also be good candidates for facial implants.

As with all surgeries, facial implants come with certain risks. For example, at times an implant may shift, and a subsequent surgery may be necessary to return it to its proper position. Sometimes, an infection may occur and the implant will need to be removed. It's important to ask the surgeon which risks are involved with each particular implant being considered for a patient.

Before undergoing a facial implant operation, a patient should discuss her expectations with the plastic surgeons. Some patients may even consider showing the surgeon pictures of people who have facial features that they would like to emulate. The surgeon can then explain to the patient what the surgery can achieve in regards to improving the patient's appearance. It's also necessary to discuss how much the procedure will cost and whether or not the operation is covered by health insurance. Another item to discuss is how long a typical recovery lasts after the implants are inserted.

Facial implant surgeries may be performed in a hospital, a doctor's office, or an outpatient surgical center. At times, patients may need to stay overnight at the medical facility after undergoing surgery. After the surgery is complete, the doctor may advise a patient to temporarily avoid certain activities that might jar or bump the newly inserted implants. Patients will experience swelling one to two days following the operation. For several days, they will be limited in their ability to smile, talk, and move the mouth.

People in the U.S. who are thinking about receiving facial implants should only allow a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to perform the procedure. A list of qualified surgeons can be obtained from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.