Facial Implants- One of the many wonders of modern cosmetic surgery Part II

Continuing where we left off at part I of this article. Part II covers the possible and potential side effects of facial implants. But before we delve into that particular topic it is pertinent to mention pre-conditions that must be met in order for facial implant surgery to succeed.

Pre-op consultation

After finding a reputable and seasoned (preferably board certified) cosmetic surgeon the first and foremost step is detailed pre-op consultation. This is a multi-pronged strategy which not only helps pave the way for better comprehension of patient’s end goals and objectives by the cosmetic surgeon but also lets a patient gauge the dedication and sincerity level of their surgeon. From surgeon’s point of view this is an opportunity to fully comprehend what the patient wants and how he or she envisions the end result of the surgery to be. The surgeon should impart proper knowledge and details about the procedure including risks involved, possible side effects, recovery period etc.

After pre-op consultation comes the ascertaining of fitness criteria for the surgery.

• The surgeon takes into consideration the physical and mental state of the patient to determine if the surgery is feasible or not.
• Providing detailed medical history to the surgeon plays a vital role in determining key aspects such as what types of anesthetics should be used. It lets your surgeon know what medications you are on at the moment and how and if they would exert an influence on the about to take place surgery. This would also let the surgeon know if you have experienced an allergic reaction to any drug so its use can be circumvented.
• Lastly the surgeon will layout detailed steps which will prep you for the surgery. This may include taking or stopping to intake certain medications.
• Since the surgical procedure was superficially covered for various facial implants, it’s time to revert to the crux of the article i.e. possible complications that may arise from facial implants.

Complications of facial implants

• Remember when I mentioned medical history? This point is a tie in to that part. Even after careful and considerable deliberations an allergic reaction to the anesthetic administered can occur. This allergic reaction can be debilitating and very rarely fatal.
• Profuse bleeding or infection
• Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal). These blood clots if not removed in time can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular failure deep vein thrombosis or stroke.
• Loss of feeling and numbness in the operated area.
• Difficulty in exhibiting facial impressions for weeks such as smiling or frowning.
• Shifting of implant or unsatisfactory results which may require revision surgery.

Facial implant surgery need not be “so scary” for a lack of better expression. Proper consultation with a skilled and experienced surgeon circumvents most of the dangers and eliminates the chances of complications significantly. 

About author: Dr. Toni Burke is a Cosmetic physician and Research Fellow at the prestigious University College London Medical School. She has surgical rotation in the London Deanery including subspecialty training in vascular and melanoma surgery.