Candidates for this procedure are people with small or significantly reduced cheek tissue and cheekbone prominence as an inherited characteristic or as a result of aging.

Cheek implant will result in enhanced cheek contour, greater facial balance and improved symmetry.

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. A small incision is made under the upper lip above the gum line, therefore the incision is hidden. Other options in placing the incision include: Beneath the eyelashes in the lower eyelid or in the hairline or through a facelift incision. The selection of incision will be discussed at the time of consultation. A biologically inert implant that is correctly shaped is inserted over the natural cheekbone contour. It will be held in place by the normal tissues that surround it as well as anchoring sutures to the overlying skin that are removed in 5-7 days.

There are usually no dressings. Initial swelling is usually moderate and gradually disappears over a month or two. Discomfort is mild to moderate and is controlled with oral medications. Sutures in the mouth dissolve and do not need to be removed. Sutures under the eyelid are removed in 4 5 days. Sutures or staples in the scalp are removed in approximately 10 days.

Additional procedures that would enhance the result are other facial cosmetic procedures such as Face Lift, Eyelid Lift, Brow Lift, Rhinoplasty, or Chin Augmentation.

The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.

Chin Implant (Augmentation Genioplasty)

A procedure for those who desire increased chin prominence. Candidates for chin enlargement are usually those who have a small or receding chin. A chin that looks too small in comparison with other facial features and possibly makes the nose appear longer.

A chin implant is intended to give the patient an improved profile, as well as a more attractive jaw line that creates a better balance between the chin and other facial features.

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under sedation and local or general anesthesia. An incision is made inside the lower lip or under the chin, and an implant is placed. In an alternative method called sliding osteotomy, a portion of the chin bone is permanently moved forward.

The patient goes home with a small pressure dressing over the chin. Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication. Swelling, tenderness, and possible local numbness gradually subside within a month or two.

Additional procedures that would enhance the result are: Liposuction of the neck, nose reshaping (Rhinoplasty), Neck Lift, or Laser Skin Resurfacing.

Chin enlargement is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment.

The specific risks and the suitability of a chin enhancement procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of your consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.