Facial implant surgery

Mentoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation. The procedure is carried out through an intraoral incision, inside the mouth, to avoid visible skin scars. A controlled osteotomy of the mandibular bone forming the chin is then performed, allowing the bone segment to be repositioned—advanced, set back or centred—to restore facial harmony.

Once the desired position is achieved, the repositioned bone is stabilised using small titanium fixation plates to secure it to the remaining mandibular structure.

In patients who, in addition to repositioning the chin, require increased projection or volume, customised chin implants may be indicated. In such cases, the implant is inserted either through an intraoral incision—typically in the fold between the lower lip and the gum—or through a small incision beneath the chin.

When the intraoral approach is used, the scar remains completely hidden. If a submental incision is required, the scar typically becomes barely perceptible over the following months, provided appropriate care is taken, including smoking cessation, sun protection and, in selected cases, laser treatment to optimise scar remodelling.

Mentoplasty can be performed in both men and women once skeletal growth is complete, which generally occurs after the age of 20. The results are permanent and usually become clearly visible approximately one month after surgery. In addition to correcting facial symmetry, mentoplasty often provides an added anti-ageing effect by lifting and tightening the skin of the neck.

Recovery following mentoplasty is generally rapid and straightforward. However, patients should be aware that bruising, swelling, mild pain and some difficulty opening the mouth are common during the first 7 to 10 days after surgery. These symptoms can usually be managed with standard anti-inflammatory medication and analgesics. Intermittent application of cold packs may also help reduce swelling and discomfort.

Patients are required to wear a chin compression garment immediately after surgery. During the first five days, it should be worn continuously (approximately 20 hours per day). Over the following 10 days, it is usually sufficient to wear it at night only.
It is also normal for slight bleeding from the surgical site to occur during the first few hours after the procedure. If this happens, gentle pressure with a sterile gauze pad can be applied.
On the day of surgery, patients should remain with the head elevated and sleep with two pillows to maintain proper positioning. During the first 24 hours, only cold liquids should be consumed. From 48 hours onwards, soft foods may be introduced, gradually increasing consistency as tolerated.

Patients should avoid touching the surgical area with the tongue. During the first 24 hours, tooth brushing should be avoided, and the mouth should not be rinsed—even with water—in order to prevent excessive cheek movement and pressure on the surgical site.

Oral hygiene may be resumed 48 hours after surgery, with particular care to prevent infection or delayed healing. This typically includes the use of chlorhexidine mouthwash, a soft surgical toothbrush and the application of chlorhexidine gel to the sutured area.

Smoking cessation is essential to promote proper wound healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Strenuous physical activity should be avoided for several days, although complete rest is not recommended. Physical activity may be resumed gradually, depending on the patient’s comfort and recovery progress.

Cheekbone surgery is carried out through an intraoral incision, inside the mouth, through which the malar implant is inserted and secured in the appropriate position using resorbable sutures. This approach ensures that all scars remain hidden within the oral cavity and are therefore completely imperceptible.

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, on an outpatient basis, allowing the patient to return home on the same day. The surgery typically lasts around one hour, although this may vary depending on whether it is combined with other procedures.

As with any surgical procedure, some degree of swelling, discomfort and pain in the treated area is expected. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate and can be managed effectively with standard anti-inflammatory medication and conventional analgesics.

During the first week after surgery, the application of cold packs is recommended to reduce swelling and promote tissue recovery. During this period, patients should follow a soft diet and maintain meticulous oral hygiene to prevent infection or postoperative complications.

As with similar procedures, oral care should include chlorhexidine mouth rinses and the use of a surgical toothbrush.

For the first month, strenuous physical activity should be avoided, although complete rest is not necessary. Strict photoprotection measures are also essential to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

The outcome of implant-based cheekbone augmentation is highly natural and permanent. Final results are usually fully appreciable approximately two months after surgery.

The content of this page has been prepared by the Communication Department and the Medical Team of Grupo Pedro Jaén, in line with our editorial commitment to ensuring the accuracy and up-to-date nature of the information provided.

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