Facial Implants

Would Facial Implants Be Beneficial To You?
Facial implants are usually preformed in conjunction with another surgery to help balance your features so that you feel better about the way you look. Many different types of implants exist, Dr. Bourget will discuss with you at the consultation the best type of implant to conform with your face.
 
Preparation:
The preparation for Facial implants may start a few months prior to surgery. Dr. Bourget may want to see you for a pre-op appointment 2 to 8 weeks before your actual surgery date. Certain facial creams may be stopped a few days before surgery. No makeup should be worn the day of surgery. Your hair should be washed prior to surgery, and dried without any hair products. It is advised that you purchase all necessities that will be needed during your recovery; such as medication, ice, ointment; prior to your surgery. Medications may be altered at this time (if possible). Smoking should be stopped, ideally, 2 weeks prior to surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin, and may interfere with the healing of incisions.

The consultation:

man looking relax The initial consultation is very important, so that you may discuss with Dr. Bourget, the changes you would like. Facial rejuvenating is a very individualized procedure, therefore Dr. Bourget will explain to you the different types of surgeries, injections, laser resurfacing, and/or liposuction, the best method for you will be discussed at that time. The doctor will suggest the procedure that he feels would best conform with the look you want. Photos may be taken at this time. Medical conditions should be brought to the doctor’s attention at this time (high blood pressure, blood clotting problems, tendency to form excessive scars, etc.). Make sure you provide all information about medication on your questionnaire, including aspirin, vitamins and any natural products that you are taking. It is very important to advise the staff if you are a smoker. 

Surgery:
You will be asked to be at the clinic 30 minutes before surgery time. Upon arrival, a nurse will prepare you for your surgery, help you to feel at ease.
Your sedation will be started. Insertion of implants takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour. Incisions are made either inside your mouth or your lower eyelid, depending were the implant is to be situated. Dr. Bourget will separate the skin from the fat and muscle, insert the implant, secure it in place and you will be sutured closed.
 
Recovery:
It is recommended that you keep your head elevated and as still as possible for a couple of days after surgery, to keep the swelling down
Cold or ice packs help to reduce swelling, bruising, and pain. Use frozen peas in the package or crush ice cubes and put the ice into a zip-lock bag. This should help not hurt. If the ice feels too uncomfortable, don’t use it as often. Ice 20 minutes per hour, when not asleep. (Stop icing if it gives you a headache). We recommend that you do NOT eat salty foods following surgery. This will only increase your swelling.
Recovery time will vary, depending on your surgery, usually a period of 7 to 12 days will be needed.
Avoid driving an automobile for at least 24 to 48 hours after surgery.
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy housework for at least 2 weeks. Alcohol, steam baths and saunas should be avoided for several months.
Your first post-op appointment will be scheduled the day after surgery, and other follow-up appointments will be scheduled depending on your progress.
It is normal for some patients to experience a brief period of “let-down” or depression after cosmetic surgery. Some may subconsciously have expected to feel and look better “instantly,” even though they rationally understand that this will not be the case. Patients commonly question their decision to have surgery during the first few days after surgery. As the healing occurs, these thoughts usually disappear quickly. If you feel depressed, understanding that this is as a “natural” phase of the healing process may help you to cope with this emotional state.
 
Risks Involved:
Problems involving facial implants are rare, but may occur, you need to be informed about such possibilities.
The risks may include swelling, bruising, bleeding (hematoma), infection, prolonged pain tingling or numbness that may be permanent. Asymmetry, nerve damage with associated muscle weakness (facial nerve), skin necrosis. Non healing wound, skin loss around incision, delayed healing difficulty breathing. Allergies to medication or sutures may occur. Implants may move or slip, infect, be malpositioned, implants may be too large or small. Other surgeries maybe required (incomplete result).