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Cheek Implants
Procedure: Cheek implants can help provide
a more harmonious balance to your face and features so that you feel
better about the way you look. When cheek implants are being placed
in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift,
forehead lift or eyelid surgery, the implants may be inserted through
the incisions made for those procedures. Otherwise, an incision will
be made either inside your upper lip or your lower eyelid. A pocket
is then formed and an implant is inserted.
Length: 45 minutes - 1 1⁄2
hours.
Anesthesia: In some cases, facial implant surgery may require only local
anesthesia combined with a sedative. However, more frequently, a general anesthesia
may be recommended.
In/Outpatient: Usually outpatient.
Risks: Although problems rarely occur, you need to
be informed about the possibilities. This page will touch upon a few, but is
not intended to provide a detailed or complete inventory of potential risks.
Facial implants can shift slightly out of alignment and a second operation may
be needed to replace it in its proper position. Infection can occur with any
operation. If infection were to occur around a facial implant and did not clear
up after treatment with antibiotics, the implant might have to be temporarily
removed and replaced at a later time. Other, less-frequent risks may be associated
with certain implants. Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon for a description
of the risks associated with the procedure in which you are interested.
Some of the implant materials are made of a solid silicone. Currently, there
is no scientific evidence that this is a harmful substance. Your plastic surgeon
will be happy to discuss any current scientific findings concerning the type
of implant you're considering.
Recovery: Your plastic surgeon will provide you with
instructions about post-operative care. There will be dietary restrictions as
well as limitations to your activities. Again, these instructions will vary,
especially if another procedure was performed along with your implant surgery.
However, you should be aware that your ability to move your mouth and lips may
be diminished temporarily. Stitches used to close the incisions inside your mouth
usually dissolve within about 10 days.
Duration of Results: Permanent.
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