Facial implants (cheek, chin and jaw)

What are Facial implants?

Facial implants are non-migrating, permanent materials, and are available in a wide range of sizes and dimensions. There are three types of common facial implants that are used to change the structure of the face:

  • cheek implants
  • chin implants
  • jaw implants

Plastic surgeons are able to create a new facial structure using these implants. They can fine-tune the type of ‘look’ you wish to achieve. Most patients focus on one area of change (cheek, chin, or jaw), however, it is possible to have two or even three types of implants. For example, in the chin, it may be possible to get a more ‘angular look’ to the whole face by using a wider chin implant. Cheek implants are typically used to create a higher cheekbone structure.

What are Facial implants made of?

We use two types of implants: silicone and porex. Solid silicone implants have a long track record. None of the complaints related to breast implants have been tied to facial implants. Because they are solid they do not leak. Porex implants, as the name implies, are porous like a sponge, but solid to the touch. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to discuss which might be suited best for you based on your specific situation.

What problems do Facial implants address?

My chin looks too small for my face a New York patient
Patients seeking Facial implants often, even as a young person, felt they didn't have a strong enough chin or wanted higher cheekbones. In these cases, chin or cheek implants are used to add volume to an area that lacks it. They can give the face a more balanced look. The impact of a well-placed facial implant can be quite dramatic. For example, a person with a weak chin will have improved overall features with a chin implant, as it will be in better harmony with the overall facial structure. The areas of the face we most commonly enhance with implants are the chin and the cheekbones. Less frequent areas are the angles of the jaw and nose. As such, a facial implant can address the following concerns:
  • small, weak, or receding chin
  • 'witch's chin'
  • low or non-existent cheekbones
  • weak jaw line
  • overall lack of facial contour or definition
  • unbalanced chin or cheekbones
  • facial asymmetry or deformity (congenital or aging)
Facial implants are quite often used to sculpt the face when Injectable fillers alone won't give a patient the desired outcome. Note: Lip implants are entirely different from facial implants discussed on this page. Please see our Lip augmentation page for more information about the implants used to enhance the lip.

How is a Facial implant procedure performed?

Type of anesthesia

Implant procedures are usually performed under IV anesthesia in our AAAASF Accredited surgery center here in Baltimore. We use only Board Certified Anesthesiologists to administer your anesthesia.

Cheek implants

Cheek implants are typically inserted into the cheek area through the mouth.

Jaw implants

Jaw implants are inserted through the mouth and sutured into place.

Chin implants

Chin implants are usually inserted through an incision right under your chin, or they may be inserted through the mouth.

Can I get a Facial implant at the same time as my Facelift surgery?

Yes, in fact, it is very common to combine the two procedures. Specific examples of combination procedures include: a mid Facelift with a Cheek implant, or a Chin implant with a Neck lift, will not only make a person look younger, but will improve the overall facial structure.

What are the preoperative requirements?

No smoking sign.During your consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon it's important to discuss the surgical plan and review risks associated with the procedure. You should spend time looking at implants 'sizers' with your surgeon and make a careful selection of which one is best for you. Your surgeon should also provide a copy of the ASPS informed consent so you can read it carefully in advance of your surgery. This document will list all the possible risks and complications. Preparations for this procedure involve the following:
  • Quit smoking 3 - 4 weeks before the surgery so that healing is not compromised. However, you must stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior to your procedure or it will be canceled.
  • Read the Informed Consent document which lists the possible risks and complications for the surgery. Make a list of questions.
  • Stop taking multivitamins, herbals, and aspirin two weeks prior to surgery.
  • Within 30 days of your surgery date, get a medical clearance for surgery with a physical examination (H&P) and CBC (anemia detection).
  • Schedule a pre-op office appointment with the surgeon to review the surgical plan and sign the informed consent forms.
  • Get all of your prescriptions filled out before your surgery date.
  • Do not drink anything (NPO) after midnight the night before surgery.
Your procedure should be performed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in an accredited surgery center. The most highly recognized accreditation agencies are Medicare, AAAASF, and JCAHO. Be sure that your facility is accredited by at least one of these organizations! In many cases, a facility will have accreditation from Medicare, and either AAAASF or JCAHO. Our surgery center is accredited by both Medicare and the AAAASF.

What is Facial implant Post-Op recovery like?

Time off from work following Facial implant surgery is typically a week long. The majority of the swelling should have subsided by the end of one month. However you will likely have some amount of swelling for up to 4 months. All three types of implants can be inserted and fixed with dissolvable sutures, so there are no sutures to remove during your post op period.

What are the risks and possible complications?

As with any surgery, having Facial implants can pose risks and possible complications including (but not limited to):
  • firmness around the implant
  • shifting of the implant
  • skin contour irregularities
  • infection
  • bleeding
  • unfavorable scarring
  • changes in skin sensation
  • dissatisfaction with size of implant
  • possible revision surgery to reposition the implant

How much do Facial implants cost?

Pink money box.Total costs for both types of facial implants include the surgeon's fee, operating room fee, anesthesiologist's fee, and all office follow up visits. Typical total costs are bilateral and are as follows for 2024.
Facial implants 2024 Price (exp 5/1/24)
Chin Implant $4,600
Cheek Implant $5,500-$6,000
If you are comparing costs among surgeons, be sure to understand exactly what a quote covers during your implant consultation.

Dr. Ricardo L. Rodriguez's signatureModified on |
Board Certified Plastic Surgery, ASPS Member

NOTICE

Patients depicted in our before and after galleries have provided their written consent to display their photos online. Every patient is unique, and surgical results may vary. Please contact us if you have any questions.