High cheekbones and a strong jaw line have long had a history of allure.  Along with the eyes, the cheekbones and jaw line form the most photogenic aspects of the face.  Chin and cheek implants are a great way to enhance a facial profile by improving the overall proportion and balance of the face.  With chin implants (mentoplasty), the symmetry of the face can be shaped and contoured.  Cheek implants (malarplasty), also known as malar (high cheek) or submalar (low cheek) augmentation, can add fullness and definition to the face.  Utilizing permanent chin and cheek implants can provide a rejuvenated, youthful facial profile.

Reasons for Considering a Chin and/or Cheek Implant:

• Extend or enlarge the chin if the chin is recessed or small.
• Create a more defined facial profile if the jaw, chin, or cheeks lack distinction.
• Bring the various aspects of the face into proportion.
• Round out the cheeks if they are hollow due to heredity or aging.
• Accent the upper cheeks making them appear higher and fuller.

General Procedure

With chin surgery, an implant is inserted in front of the jawbone in order to augment the chin or jaw.  A small incision is made inside the mouth to allow the implant to be positioned in a pocket just under the skin.  An alternate location for this incision is below the chin (on the outside).  Chin surgery is commonly performed along with rhinoplasty (nose surgery).  With cheek augmentation, incisions are made either inside the mouth, through the lower cheek, or directly below the bottom eyelid on the high cheek.  Cheek surgery is often performed in conjunction with a facelift procedure.  Both chin and cheek implant procedures normally last from 30 minutes to one hour.

Recovery Process

Immediately after surgery, the face will be fitted with bandages, taped, or otherwise secured in order to speed the recovery process and to reduce swelling.  Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time.  Keeping the head elevated during the initial recovery phase is also important. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery.  Any pain can be treated effectively with oral medication.  Patients may experience some swelling and bruising of the face which can be eased by using cold compresses.  A liquid diet may be required for a few days, as chewing may be difficult.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions given after surgery.  The substance used for chin and cheek implants is made of durable, solid material that will last for years.