8-West Cosmetic Surgery

Face Last Updated: May 24, 2010

About Facial Implants

Facial Implants Add Dimension and Balance Features

Facial Plastic Surgeon Dr. Buonassisi can place implants in the cheeks, chin and nose to create more harmony. Facial implants are permanent and associated with a relatively easy recovery period.

Not long ago, people with recessed chins, weak cheekbones or a small nose had few options for enhancing their appearance, besides perhaps carefully placed makeup to emphasize their other attractive features. But modern surgical implants made from high-strength silicone and other advanced materials, allow facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Buonassisi’s Vancouver cosmetic surgery patients to achieve lasting augmentation for improved symmetry and definition. Cheek, chin and nasal implants are available at 8-West Cosmetic Surgery. These facial surgery options help provide better balance, structure to the face, and results can range from very subtle improvement to more dramatic changes in facial shape.

Chin & Cheek Implants from Dr. Buonassisi

Several implant types and insertion methods can be used to achieve facial augmentation. Dr. Buonassisi carefully evaluates the needs of each of his patients and recommends the procedures that are most likely to meet their goals, thereby maximizing results and minimizing recovery time. In particular, chin and cheek enhancement are often popular surgeries in combination with the Vancouver rhinoplasty procedures Dr. Buonassisi performs. More information on the full range of options is available during the consultation.

Are Facial Implants Right for You?

Many people who are considering facial implants have what they consider to be “weak” features or a “poor bone structure” such as recessed cheekbones or a receded chin. Facial implants can provide subtle enhancements to increase a patient’s confidence and satisfaction with their looks. They are also a good choice for patients who are choosing a facelift or rhinoplasty in Vancouver, as increased definition in the chin and cheeks can provide a more comprehensive makeover.

Preparing for Your Procedure

Most people have to do very little to prepare for their facial implant surgery. Preparation generally requires planning for your post-surgical needs. For instance, have plenty of your favorite foods on hand so you don’t need to go to the market for the first few days after surgery. Also, arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery, stay with you at least over the first night, and travel out for anything you need the first few days. Make sure you have an effective pain reliever in your medicine cabinet – Dr. Buonassisi can recommend a medication for you or write a prescription if necessary.

Choosing This Vancouver Cosmetic Surgery Procedure

As you would expect, the techniques used to perform cheek enhancement and chin enhancement are different. Below you will find a brief description of techniques for these two procedures.

Chin Surgery

Before beginning a chin enhancement, Dr. Buonassisi selects a chin implant that is the proper size and shape for your cosmetic needs. He can use computer imaging during your consultation to help determine your desired degree of augmentation. To begin the procedure, he makes an incision inside the lower lip or just underneath the chin itself and creates a pocket in which the implant will be placed. The implant is then positioned over the front of the jawbone. Incisions are closed with sutures, which will dissolve if placed inside the mouth or will be removed five to seven days after the procedure during a return visit to the office.

 Cheek Surgery

Cheek implants are often inserted through an incision made inside the mouth. They also can be inserted through incisions made as a part of another cosmetic surgery such as a British Columbia face lift or blepharoplasty. Dr. Buonassisi creates small pockets beneath the skin where the implants will reside.  On average, these procedures take under an hour to complete, with additional time needed if other facial rejuvenation surgery is being performed at the same time.

Recovering from Surgery

You will be able to return home the day of your surgery but you should rest for at least a few days. Dr. Buonassisi will advise you to avoid normal activities for about a week, avoid strenuous exercise for three weeks, and steer clear of contact sports for six weeks. Discomfort during recovery should be minimal, with most patients needing only over-the-counter medication. Because you will experience some swelling and may have incisions inside your mouth, you may have some trouble chewing for the first week and may want to plan to eat only soft foods. Dr. Buonassisi will instruct you about dental hygiene and any eating restrictions after surgery.

Your Results

Though the results may be subtle, procedures like chin and cheek augmentation can have a significant impact on the way patients feel about themselves. Many of Dr. Buonassisi’s patients feel that having a more distinguished profile and more-prominent cheekbones can provide increased confidence and create a positive impression with the people they meet.

Ready to Discuss Your Needs with a Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon? Schedule a Consult

If you are ready to book a consult with Dr. Buonassisi, please Request a Consult. If you would like to learn more about what to expect during a surgical consult, please go here.

Not Sure You Are a Candidate? Use our Virtual Consult Form

Not everybody is a candidate for cosmetic surgery. As a service to clients, we have launched a Virtual Consultation tool. Upload your photos, provide some information about what you would like to change, and a cosmetic surgeon will provide a complementary evaluation. Find out more about the Virtual Consultation here.