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FACE
- Eyelid Lift
- Facelift
- Chin Augmentation
- Cheek Implants
- Dermabrasion
- Forehead Lift
- Rhinoplasty
- Otoplasty
- BOTOX®
- Latisse™
- Injectable Fillers
- Chemical Peels
- Skin Care
- Laser Treatments
BREAST
BODY
Chin & Cheek Augmentation
Cheek Implants (Malar Augmentation)
Malar augmentation is a procedure used to help balance and redefine the contours of the mid-face region. Cheek implants may be positioned in order to create more prominent and striking cheekbones in the younger patient. For the patient that is experiencing aging changes that have contributed to a flattened, hollow appearance of the cheekbones, "submalar implants" are used in facial rejuvenation. As we age, the natural fat pads of the face start to descend below the cheekbones. A lower lid eyelift will usually help in repositioning those fat pads but sometimes, a malar augmentation is required to balance the face to regain its more youthful appearance. The results of cheek augmentation can be very dramatic or a subtle lift of a mature, sagging mid-face.
Procedure Description
Cheek augmentation is performed by Dr. Hand in our accredited Marin County outpatient surgical facility. The insertion of cheek implants is often combined with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelift or eyelid lift. Most often, general anesthesia is recommended. When the procedure is done alone, most often the implant will be inserted via small incision above the upper gums. A pocket is created under the skin but above the cheekbone. Dr. Hand will utilize different sizers to ascertain the correct size and projection that will enhance and redefine the face. The implant is sutured in place and will be unmovable after a few weeks.
During simultaneous facial procedures, the implants are usually inserted through another surgical site such as a lower eyelid incision occurring during a lower lid blepharoplasty or a facelift incision occurring in front of the ear.
Recuperation and Healing
Most patients will be able to return to normal activities within several days unless concurrent procedures have also been performed. The majority of swelling and bruising resolves within a week. Discomfort is usually minimal and easily controlled by oral medications. Careful consideration not to dislodge the implant is given for 2 weeks.
Other Options
In addition to cheek augmentation, Dr. Hand may suggest other procedures to rejuvenate the face such as facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid lift or chin implant based on the facial anatomy and desired results.
Chin Augmentation (Mentoplasty)
Chin augmentation is a procedure that improves the total facial balance of an individual with a receding chin. Visually, a poorly defined chin can make the nose and upper teeth look more prominent. The jaw and neckline often appears weak and undefined. A candidate may also have lost chin definition due to the natural aging process. Asymmetry of the jaw or irregularity caused by congenital or traumatic defects also may be corrected restoring facial symmetry.
During consultation with Dr. Hand, the chin projection and width will be evaluated in relationship to the rest of the facial features. Chin augmentation may provide more projection, fullness or both. The implant is composed of a safe, non-reactive silastic material that promotes attachment to the surrounding soft tissue. A variety of sizes and shapes are available to suit the individual need of the patient. Dr. Hand will make a recommendation of an implant size and projection based on the achievement of facial balance.
Procedure Description
Dr. Hand performs chin augmentation at our accredited Marin County outpatient surgical facility. This procedure may be done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Most often if combined with other procedures, general anesthesia is recommended.
During the procedure, a small incision will be made just under the chin or inside the mouth, in front of the lower teeth. A pocket is created over the bone to contain the implant. Most often, several sizers will be evaluated to determine the appropriate projection and width. A permanent implant will then be inserted, secured with sutures and the incision closed. After 2 weeks, the implant will be immoveable. If the incision is made inside the mouth, no scar is apparent. If the incision site is under the chin, it almost always becomes quickly imperceptible. The chin implant procedure is usually completed in 1 hour.
Recuperation and Healing
A dressing will be placed over the incision site immediately after surgery. A soft diet is advised for the following 2 days, otherwise the patient may return to all work and leisure activities with careful consideration to avoid activities that may dislodge the implant for 2 weeks. Discomfort is usually minimal and easily controlled with oral pain medications.
Other Options
In addition to chin augmentation, Dr. Hand may suggest other facial rejuvenation procedures including facelift, eyelid lift, rhinoplasty, liposuction of the neck and cheek augmentation.
