Facial Implant is the medical terminology for what most people refer to as facial cheek implant, facial prosthetic implant, facial implant surgery, and facial implants.

In this procedure the goal is to correct and change the shape and balance of the face using formed implants to build up a diminishing chin, add distinction to cheekbones, or reshape the jaw line.

Length and details of the Facial Implant procedure

The length of operation typically runs 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Patients are usually given a general or local anesthesia, with sedation.

Most Facial Implants procedures are routinely outpatient with some cases requiring an overnight hospital stay.

Risks and/or complications related to a Facial Implant procedure

In a Facial Implant surgery the patient may experience potential side effects consisting of temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising, numbness and/or stiffness in the lower facial areas. If the procedure includes surgery to the jaw, a patient may experience the inability to open fully open their mouth for several weeks.

In addition there are oher associated risks with this procedure that include the risk of shifting or inexact positioning of implant, infection, excess tightening and hardening of scar tissue in the region of the formed implant.

Patients may return to work in approximately 1 week. Those involved in sports or other physical activities should avoid activity that could jar or bump face. Individuals will be able to resume these activities in approximately 6 weeks or more. Long-term results of a Facial Implant procedure

In this procedure the end results are usually permanent.

How much does a Facial Implant procedure cost?

The national average for cheek implants is approximately $2,300

Will my insurance cover a Facial Implant procedure?

Because a Facial Implant procedure is considered an elective procedure, insurance usually will not cover the operation. However in some cases such as reconstructive surgery it may be medically necessary, your health care insurance may be able to cover the costs.

By Alan Hood

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