The ‘face’ that we present to the world is one way we define ourselves. Although external appearances are only one aspect of beauty, our face is the first thing other people notice, and features that are harmonised and in balance are considered attractive. Cheek and chin implants are often desired for cosmetic reasons, and are also invaluable in reconstruction surgery required after an accident or illness.
Cheek & Chin Implants
Dr Laniewski has worked with plastic surgeons at London’s famous Harley Street, where he refined his already impressive skills as a facial surgeon. During his time overseas, Dr Laniewski also worked at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, renowned as a leading destination for breast, head and neck surgeons. Back home in Sydney, Dr Laniewski continues to provide the highest levels of expertise in surgical procedures, including those that improve appearance and repair damage to the chin and cheeks.
WHAT ARE CHEEK AND CHIN IMPLANTS?
The implants are solid and durable structural enhancements that are biocompatible with existing organic facial materials. Their purpose is to augment, rejuvenate or reconstruct natural facial contours. Choice of implant styles and shapes ensures they are kept in proportion with your face, resulting in sculpted cheekbones or a more distinctive jawline.
CHOOSING A FACIAL IMPLANT
The first step is to have a consultation with Dr Laniewski. At this time you will reveal your medical history, including dental work, and inform the doctor of any prior reconstructive surgery on your face. Your consultation will help establish your goals, including any other cosmetic surgeries planned for the future. In this way, every step can be taken at the appropriate time, and some surgeries can be performed simultaneously.
Common reasons for cheek and chin implants include:
- The desire for a stronger, more pronounced chin
- Creating a defined jawline that adequately frames the face
- Greater fullness and definition in the cheeks
- Re-contouring facial structure that has diminished due to aging
- Correcting deformities or disfigurement caused by injury, accident or congenital conditions
Cheek and chin implants are not as daunting a prospect as it might seem. They are relatively quick procedures that provide permanent results.
FACIAL IMPLANT PROCEDURES
The surgery is generally performed on an outpatient basis (overnight stay) followed by a return home the next day. The duration of the surgery will depend on your individual circumstances, but for cosmetic surgery on an otherwise healthy face it should only take between one and two hours.
Cheek and chin implant procedures include:
- Lower jaw: The implant incision is made inside the lower lip/gum junction, or underneath the chin.
- Chin implant: An incision is made inside the lower lip/gum junction, or underneath the chin.
- Cheek implant: The implant can be positioned through an internal incision inside the upper lip, or placed through the lower eyelid.
Your surgeon will advise you regarding appropriate foods and medications to be taken both before and after surgery. On the day of surgery, it’s advisable to wear a loose fitting blouse or buttoned shirt that doesn’t need to be pulled over your face. Put a plan in place for someone to drive you home after surgery, and preferably to stay with you on your first night back home.
RECOVERY AT HOME
Typical recovery from a facial implant is quite fast, unless other more extensive surgery has also been performed. You probably won’t require more than a week off work or regular activities.
Your home recovery program will be easy and convenient with a little advance planning. Useful items include:
- A cold pack to ease pain and swelling
- Creams or ointments prescribed by your surgeon
- Soft foods such as puddings and ice cream, plus protein shakes for additional vitamin and mineral intake
- Mouthwash as an alternative to brushing teeth
Any bruising or swelling should subside within a couple of days, and you will begin to fully appreciate your new appearance. Good looks never go out of fashion, and there is plenty of evidence to prove that satisfaction with our appearance can dramatically improve self-esteem, personal relationships and even career prospects.