CHEEK IMPLANT
Fillers will ultimately dissolve over time. Fat transfers are also a great option but like fillers, fat has a tendency to also disappear with time. However, there is new science developing that shows fat can last longer if combined with regenerative cells and growth factors. Cheek implants on the other hand don’t change with time. The great advantage of a cheek implant is that it doesn’t dissolve with time and it won’t droop with time like fillers or fat. Implants are fixed with small screws to insure their ideal position. The other great advantage of a chin implant is that if you don’t like the implant you can remove it at any time.
There are many different options for implants. In the past, porous polyethylene implants were used. However, the main problem with these implants is tissue ingrowth. Tissue ingrowth makes implant removal very difficult. Urban uses top-of-the-line medical-grade silicone implants. There are two reasons why silicone is the implant of choice. First, Silicone implants are a firm clear material that feels like your own bone. Second, silicone implants are easily fixed and removed.
If the silicone implant is secured properly to prevent movement an implant can last a lifetime.
This question is similar to asking an artist how do you know what paints to use. This is where the art of cosmetic surgery is involved. In the pre-operative planning phase, Dr. Urban will discuss the different implant shapes and sizes and indications for use. Dr. Urban will also help you in the planning phase by allowing you to select and handle the different sizes.
Cheek implants can be placed with local anesthesia or with IV sedation. The procedure usually takes about 20 minutes per side. The recovery period is dependent upon the amount of swelling present. Recovery is anywhere from 3 days to a week.
Yes, they can. But Dr. Urban will eliminate this problem by fixing the implant in place with a small titanium metal screw. In fact, the lack of fixation of facial implants was the main reason for most of the problems associated with implants. Fixing the implant will help prevent distortion, infection, and possible bone loss.
