Beauty may only be skin deep. But, for centuries, well-defined facial features have been considered traits of physical beauty. Prominent cheek bones and a strong chin provide balance and definition. For those seeking these natural marks of distinction, make-up was their only alternative.
Now, thanks to modern technology, there is a safe, permanent method to correct a receding chin and provide those high cheekbones sought after by men and women worldwide. Chin augmentation, or mentoplasty, and cheek implants, or malar augmentation, are performed by Dr. Wakeham for patients in Calgary, Alberta to provide a more vibrant and attractive look of distinction. These procedures can also benefit those with asymmetries or congenital defects.
Chin implants are often recommended to patients undergoing nose surgery to achieve better facial balance. In patients 38 - 50 years old, cheek implants can improve the midfacial contour and restore sagging midfacial soft tissues, thus postponing the need for a facelift. For patients receiving a facelift, cheek implants can ensure longer-lasting results.
Are chin and cheek facial implants for you?
During your initial cosmetic consultation, Dr. Wakeham will assess the nature of your facial structure and discuss your concerns about your face, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure.
We may show you several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar facial structure, and we will explain the treatment you can expect to receive. Before and after photos may be taken of your face to document your results.
Are chin and cheek implants safe?
Facial implants have proven to provide a safe, predictable, low-cost, low-risk cosmetic surgical procedure. To date, millions of facial implants made from non-toxic materials such as silicone, porous polyethylene and expanded polytetra-fluoroethylene (ePTFE) have been implanted, with no reported cases of allergic reaction.
The implants, designed specifically for use in the midfacial cheek area and the chin come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. These implants can be custom-trimmed by your surgeon for a more natural fit.
The chin and cheek implant procedure
Both chin and cheek implantation procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis. They can be performed using general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or using a local anesthesia to numb the treated area while the patient remains awake.
After cleansing the area, your surgeon will place small incisions either in natural crease lines or inside the mouth. The implants are placed through the incision and into position. The incisions are then closed using tiny sutures.
How will my face feel after my chin and cheek implants are in?
After Dr. Wakeham performs cheek augmentation, you can expect some discomfort, aching and some numbness along with some temporary swelling. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will help keep this to a minimum. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Chewing food and brushing your teeth might be a little uncomfortable for a week to 10 days.
After Dr. Wakeham performs chin augmentation, a dressing will be applied to cover the area for about 3 days. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will keep swelling to a minimum. A soft food diet may be required for a few days as chewing may be limited. All swelling should be gone within 6 weeks. External scars are minimal and will fade significantly over time. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
NON SURGICAL OPTIONS FOR
ENHANCING CHEEKS AND CHINS
Injecting a injectable filler such as Perlane® or Juvederm® into the chin or more commonly the cheeks can be performed in very little time with no recovery time. The effets of the fillers will last up to a year.