Contouring Implants
Chin, cheek, and jawline contouring utilize precisely shaped implants to improve definition to the face. As a potentially permanent, yet usually easily reversible alternative to dermal filler, these implants are often made of biocompatible silicone that maximizes their safety and effectiveness. Some individuals have weak or recessed chins, making the nose appear larger than it actually is. That being the case, a cheek implant is often placed in concert with a rhinoplasty. The incision is small and hidden under the chin. Cheek implants provide a more permanent solution to deficient volume in the cheek, either from lack of fat or bone. They are placed through incisions hidden in the mouth. Jaw implants enhance a deficient angle of the jaw in order to better balance the face. The procedure is performed through an incision hidden inside the mouth as well as a pinpoint incision hidden under the jaw. Chin, cheek, and jawline implants can be inserted individually or during the same procedure. There are many different shapes and sizes for each type of implant. The proper choice depends on a detailed analysis of the individual’s anatomy and their desires.
Contouring Implants Before & After
Chin Implant Patient
Am I a good candidate?
Some individuals have concerns about inadequate volume and/or volume loss in their chin, cheeks, and/or jawline. Chin, cheek, and jawline contouring implants can address these concerns.
Most candidates for chin, cheek, and jawline contouring implants range in age from 20s to 70s. A consultation is essential to determine candidacy for the procedure because there may be factors that preclude this procedure for certain individuals. Reasonable expectations must be established about what chin, cheek, and jawline contouring implants can and cannot accomplish as with all plastic surgery procedures. As with all facial plastic surgery procedures, results can vary.
Expected recovery
Recovery from chin, cheek, and jaw contouring implant placement is specific to the individual. The duration of recovery will vary from person to person. The average recovery time for chin, cheek, and jaw contouring implant surgery is approximately 7 to 10 days for most individuals. The healing process does not end at 10 days, however. For example, any external incisions continue to heal for months after surgery.
Protective tape is typically kept on the chin after a chin implant for 7 days after surgery. Sutures (stitches) are removed approximately 7 days after a chin implant.
Cheek implants are placed through small incisions in the mouth. The sutures (stitches) placed dissolve on their own.
Jaw contouring implants are placed through small incisions in the mouth and a pinpoint incision under the jaw. The sutures (stitches) placed dissolve on their own.
Some swelling and bruising are expected after placement of chin, cheek, and jawline contouring implants. Bruising is usually minimal after surgery. Swelling generally improves significantly by 7 to 10 days after surgery. Swelling and bruising are expected to continue to improve and resolve in the ensuing days and weeks.
What to expect in a consultation
Expect a detailed, informative conversation with Dr. Harmon about your concerns and aesthetic goals regarding your face. He will assess your anatomy and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your concerns and aesthetic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of anesthesia is required?
- Chin, cheek, and jaw contouring implants can usually be placed under local anesthesia or IV sedation. Some individuals may require IV anesthesia.
- Are there different sizes and shapes to the implants?
- Yes. There are many different sizes and shapes to the implants. The implant selected depends on a conversation with Dr. Harmon about your aesthetic goals and a detailed assessment of your anatomy.
- Can chin, cheek, and/or jaw contouring implants be placed with other procedures?
- Yes. In fact, chin implants are commonly placed at the same time as nose surgery (rhinoplasty). This is because inadequate chin projection can cause the nose to appear larger than it actually is. A chin implant can create balance in the nose-chin relationship.
- How can a chin implant restore balance to my nose?
- A "weak" or retruded chin can make the nose appear longer and larger than it actually is. A chin implant can improve the projection of the chin, reducing this effect. Then, a rhinoplasty can be performed with an improved understanding of its size and proportions.
- Does placement of a chin implant require a large incision?
- No. A chin implant usually requires only a small – approximately 1.5 to 2 cm incision hidden under the chin. Jaw and cheek implant incisions are hidden in the mouth.
- What material are the implants made of?
- Chin, cheek, and jawline contouring implants are composed of silicone. Silicone is a good material for implants because it provides appropriate structure without tissue ingrowth into the material. As a result, the implants can be more easily removed and replaced if desire.
- Is placement of a chin, cheek, and/or jawline implant a painful procedure?
- Facial plastic surgery procedures are generally well-tolerated by patients and typically involve little pain, especially when compared with surgery on other areas of the body. Patients are usually prescribed just a small amount of pain medication for after surgery. In fact, we have found most use only over-the-counter pain medication including acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen after surgery instead. And those who do use the prescribed pain medication usually only use it the first night after surgery. With that in mind, it is important to note that every patient perceives and processes pain differently. Some patients have a high pain tolerance. Others may be more predisposed to be more sensitive to pain. We at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery are focused on balancing minimizing post-operative discomfort and maximizing safety.
- Can filler be added over chin, cheek, and jawline implants?
- Yes, filler can be added over these implants in the event that a patient desires some modifications beyond that which the implant provided. However, filler does dissolve over time. As a result, this is a temporary solution.
Why Choose Dr. Harmon
- The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good.
- Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected.
- Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology.
- Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati.
- Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati.
- Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City.
- Dr. Harmon posts frequently and covers a wide range of topics, including procedure-specific information, volunteering, general health, and much more. Read more from Dr. Harmon by visiting his blog.
- Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery can be reached here.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice. Moreover, this page should not be used as a substitute for direct medical advice. It is essential that you have a consultation with a qualified medical provider prior to considering any treatment in order to determine whether you are a candidate for treatment. This will also allow you the opportunity to discuss any potential benefits, risks, and alternatives to the treatment.