Cheek (Malar)
Implant
Throughout the ages, many
Cultures, including our modern western civilization,
have considered prominent or high cheekbones a sign of
physical beauty. Until recently, the only way to create
an illusion of high cheekbones was through the skillful
application of cosmetics. Often, however, makeup could
not sufficiently alter what nature had produced.
Today, because of modern
technology, there is a remarkable procedure, malar
augmentation or cheek implant, that can give women the
high cheekbones they desire. This surgery, although not
designed for everyone, can give definition to a face
that has a flat contour because of underdeveloped
cheekbones. The best candidate for malar augmentation is
the individual with a long, narrow face or one with a
very round face and flat cheeks. It can also benefit
people with asymmetries or congenital defects. This
surgery can be performed in conjunction with other
facial surgeries such as
blepharoplasty (Surgery of the eyes) or
rhytidectomy
(facelift).
Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, a
complete medical history is taken to evaluate the
general health of the patient. A careful examination is
also conducted. The physician describes to the patient
the type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what
results might realistically be expected, and possible
risks and complications. Photographs may be taken before
and after surgery to evaluate the amount of improvement.
Preoperative instructions may include the elimination of
certain drugs containing aspirin in order to minimize
the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics may be
prescribed for a few days prior to surgery to prevent
infection. The areas to be worked on are carefully
marked.
The Procedure
Malar augmentation can be
performed in a physicians office, an outpatient surgical
facility or a hospital, depending on the physicians and
patient’s preference. it can be performed under general
anesthesia with the patient asleep or under local
anesthesia in which the area is numbed and the patient
remains awake. Pre-medication may be administered to
relax the patient.
The face is thoroughly
cleansed with an antiseptic cleansing agent after which
an incision is made either inside the mouth or
immediately below the lower eyelids. With the internal
approach, the most frequently used procedure, the
incision is made between the upper gums and the cheek.
The soft tissue is elevated, creating a pocket over the
cheekbone. An implant, usually triangular in shape, is
then inserted. The implant is often made of silicone or
other pliable prefabricated material. Tiny sutures are
used to close the incisions. If the external approach is
used, a very fine incision is made directly beneath the
lower eyelash, within the natural crease of the eyelid.
The implant is positioned in the cheek area through this
incision.
Following
Surgery
Sutures are removed
within a week. Pain connected with the surgery is
minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral
medication. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent
infection. Some temporary swelling and bruising of the
face are to be expected; however, keeping the head
slightly elevated when reclining and applying cold
compresses may help reduce swelling. Chewing may be
difficult for about two weeks, and tightness or numbness
around the treated area may occur for a period of time.
Brushing the teeth is often difficult for several days.
Complications of
infection are rare; however there are certain inherent
risks connected with every surgical procedure which
should be thoroughly discussed with the physician.
Patients can minimize complications by carefully
following directions given by the physician. If you are
interested in learning more about malar augmentation,
please call our office and we will be happy to answer
your questions.
Back to Procedures
|
