The Facial Implant Procedure
Facial implants, also known as craniofacial implants, are a highly effective, long-term solution for concerns with facial symmetry or the structural appearance of the face or to address the effects of trauma or congenital conditions. They can also be used to reverse significant volume loss as a result of the natural ageing process.
Surgery Time
Up to 5 hours
Anaesthetic
General anaesthetic
Hospital Stay
Day case
Time Off Work
A few days if required
Full Recovery
2 – 6 weeks
Facial implant surgery can either be performed under general or local anaesthetic depending on the extent of the procedure and whether it is combined with other facial surgery procedure. Most people return home the same day.
A stealth incision is an incision which is used in a location where it can not easily be seen but enables Mr Ong to place the implant and secure it to the underlying bone. The implant is attached to the underlying bone structure, typically with small titanium screws. For chin and cheek implants, the incision is usually made through the mouth so there are no external scars but other incisions may be recommended.
After surgery, you will be prescribed antibiotics to reduce any risk of infection. Typically, you’ll see some post-operative swelling which should subside in the first couple of weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas can be treated with facial implants?
The most commonly augmented areas are the chin (mentoplasty), the jaw angle, and the cheeks. Chin implants improve a receding chin profile and create better facial balance in proportion to the nose. Jaw angle implants strengthen a weak or narrow jaw. Cheek implants augment flat or deficient cheekbones.
What are facial implants made of?
The implants most commonly used in facial surgery are made of solid medical-grade PEEK, or Medpor (porous high-density polyethene). Both materials are biocompatible, non-resorbable synthetic materials which are well tolerated by the body and have a long safety record. Facial implants can be removed or replaced if needed.
How is a chin implant placed?
A chin implant is usually inserted through a small incision either inside the lower lip (intraoral approach) or in the natural crease beneath the chin, leaving a virtually imperceptible scar. The implant is positioned over the chin bone in a pocket beneath the periosteum (the fibrous covering of the bone) and secured with titanium screws.
Are facial implants permanent?
Facial implants are designed to be permanent and are made to last a lifetime. However, they can be removed or exchanged if a patient’s preferences change or if a complication occurs. Unlike injectable fillers or fat grafting, they provide a predictable, stable, and permanent structural enhancement.
Are face implants safe?
Facial implant surgery is usually very straightforward and safe. There is a small risk of infection, and we prescribe antibiotics for the first few days after surgery to minimise this risk. If infection does occur, we may need to remove the implant and replace it when the infection has been treated.
What are the risks of facial implants?
Risks include infection (which may require implant removal), implant displacement or malposition, changes in sensation (usually temporary), asymmetry, and the possibility of reoperation. Infection risk is minimised with prophylactic antibiotics. The risk of implant displacement is reduced by accurate pocket dissection and careful sizing.
What results can I expect from facial implants?
Facial implants produce long-lasting results. Prominent, high cheekbones are considered youthful and attractive and also give support to the mid-face, reducing the formation of under-eye bags or hollows, as well as counteracting the appearance of nasolabial folds and jowls. The chin is an important determinant in facial balance, and a defined, taut jawline also appears more youthful.
Can facial implants be combined with rhinoplasty?
Yes. Chin and jaw implants are frequently combined with rhinoplasty because the nose and chin exist in close aesthetic relationship – what appears as a large nose may partly reflect a weak chin. Addressing both simultaneously improves overall facial balance and can reduce the degree of nasal change required to achieve a harmonious result.
During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full. Please call us on 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.
