Facial Implants in Dubai

Facial implants augment the underlying bone structure of the face - adding definition, projection, and proportion to areas where the natural skeleton is underdeveloped or where ageing has led to structural changes. Unlike injectable fillers, which add soft-tissue volume temporarily, facial implants create permanent structural change at the level of the bone - producing results that are more substantial, more precise, and longer lasting.

At Vilafortuny, facial implant surgery is performed by Dr. Tim - a board-certified plastic and laser surgeon with extensive international experience. Implants are selected based on the specific anatomical deficiency identified at consultation, and placed through carefully positioned incisions designed to leave minimal or no visible scarring. The goal is always a result that looks structurally natural - not augmented.

Permanent structural augmentation at the level of bone - not temporary filler
Biocompatible medical-grade silicone elastomer - safe, stable, and long-lasting
Since 2006 plastic surgery trusted by Dubai patients and international visitors
Types of Facial Implant at Vilafortuny

Facial implants are available for three key structural areas - the chin, the cheeks, and the jaw. Each addresses a different aspect of facial proportion, and they can be used individually or in combination depending on the specific anatomical findings at consultation.

Most common Chin Implants (Mentoplasty)

The most frequently performed facial implant procedure. A chin implant adds projection and definition to a receding or underdeveloped chin - bringing the lower face into better proportion with the mid-face and nose. The implant is placed through an incision either inside the mouth or in the natural crease beneath the chin - both approaches leave minimal or no visible scarring. Procedure time is typically under one hour. Recovery is rapid - most patients return to normal activity within one week.

A chin implant frequently reduces the perceived prominence of the nose by improving the overall balance of the lower face - without any change to the nose itself. This is one of the most clinically well-established effects of mentoplasty.

Mid-face volume Cheek Implants (Malar Augmentation)

Cheek implants add volume and projection to flat or under-defined cheekbones - creating greater mid-face structure and restoring the angular definition that can be lost to genetics or age-related volume depletion. Implants are placed through incisions inside the upper mouth, leaving no external scars. A submalar implant variant adds fullness specifically beneath the cheekbone for patients whose concern is hollowness rather than lack of projection.

Cheek implants are frequently combined with a facelift for patients undergoing facial rejuvenation, where restoring mid-face structure alongside tightening the lower face produces a more balanced overall result.

Lower face structure Jaw Implants (Mandibular Augmentation)

Jaw implants augment the body or angle of the mandible - adding width and definition to the lower face for patients with a narrow or poorly defined jaw structure. Particularly effective for patients seeking a more angular, defined lower face profile. Placed through intraoral incisions with no external scarring. Less commonly performed than chin or cheek implants but produce significant structural change where the anatomy warrants it.

Jaw implants may be used in combination with chin implants for a comprehensive lower face definition procedure, or alongside orthognathic surgery planning in specific cases.

Implants vs fillers - the key difference

Injectable fillers add soft-tissue volume and can simulate the effect of structural augmentation - but the result is temporary (typically 12 to 18 months), subject to migration over time, and inherently imprecise compared to a surgically placed implant. For patients with a genuine structural deficiency of the chin, cheekbone, or jaw, a permanent implant produces a more accurate, more stable, and more natural long-term result. Fillers remain appropriate for minor enhancements and for patients who wish to test the aesthetic effect before committing to surgery - a consultation at Vilafortuny will identify which approach is best suited to each individual case.

The Procedure - What to Expect

Facial implant surgery is typically a relatively short procedure with a straightforward recovery compared to more complex facial operations. The specific steps vary by implant type and placement site.

01
Consultation and Implant Selection

The surgeon assesses facial anatomy, proportions, and the specific structural deficiency being addressed. Imaging may be reviewed. Implant size, shape, and style are selected based on the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goal - this is not a one-size-fits-all selection. The incision approach, anaesthetic type, and realistic outcome are discussed before any decision is made.

02
Anaesthesia

Facial implant surgery is performed under local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation, or under general anaesthesia depending on the procedure and patient preference. Single implant procedures such as a chin implant can often be performed under sedation in under an hour. Combined procedures or jaw implants typically require general anaesthesia.

03
Implant Placement

An incision is made at the planned site - inside the mouth or in the natural crease beneath the chin, depending on the implant type. A precise pocket is created directly over the bone and the implant is seated within it, positioned to sit flush against the underlying skeletal structure. The implant is secured and the incision closed. Total procedure time for a chin implant is typically under one hour. Cheek or jaw implants may take one to two hours.

04
Recovery

Swelling and some bruising are expected in the first three to five days. For chin implants, patients may find chewing and speaking slightly restricted for the first week - this is temporary as the surrounding tissue adapts. Most patients return to normal daily activity within four to seven days. Full swelling resolution and final result assessment typically occurs at six to eight weeks. Intraoral incisions require careful oral hygiene maintenance during healing.

Indications and Considerations
Good candidates
  • Patients with a receding, underdeveloped, or poorly defined chin seeking permanent improvement in lower face proportion
  • Patients with flat or poorly defined cheekbones seeking mid-face structural definition
  • Patients with a narrow or structurally weak jaw seeking greater lower face width and angularity
  • Patients whose facial asymmetry is caused by a structural deficiency in one of these areas
  • Patients who have trialled fillers and want a more permanent, precise structural result
  • Patients in good general health with realistic expectations of the outcome
Important considerations
  • Smoking should be stopped before surgery - it impairs wound healing, particularly for intraoral incisions
  • Blood-thinning medications and supplements must be stopped as directed before the procedure
  • For intraoral placements, meticulous oral hygiene is required during the healing period to reduce infection risk at the incision site
  • Patients with active dental or gum infections should have these fully treated before facial implant surgery
  • Realistic expectations are essential - the implant enhances existing structure, it does not fundamentally change the face
  • In the rare event of infection or displacement, revision surgery may be required - this risk is discussed honestly at consultation
Results
  • Permanent structural augmentation - the implant does not degrade or require replacement under normal circumstances
  • Improved facial proportion and balance - the corrected structure creates harmony between the facial thirds that is visible from every angle
  • A result that looks structurally natural - not augmented or altered in a way that draws attention
  • For chin implants - frequently a secondary improvement in the perceived proportion of the nose, without any rhinoplasty
  • A result visible immediately, with final appearance confirmed at six to eight weeks as swelling fully resolves
  • High patient satisfaction - the majority of patients describe the outcome as among the most impactful changes they have experienced from any cosmetic procedure
Before and After Your Procedure

Before Surgery

  • Stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery - ideally four weeks or more
  • Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood-thinning supplements for two weeks before the procedure as directed
  • Ensure any active dental disease or infection is fully treated before scheduling the procedure
  • Arrange support for the first 24 to 48 hours post-operatively and transport home from the clinic
  • Attend your pre-operative assessment and review all instructions with the surgical team before the day

After Surgery

  • Keep the head elevated for the first 48 hours to minimise swelling
  • Follow the prescribed pain relief and antibiotic regimen as directed
  • For intraoral incisions - rinse gently with the prescribed antiseptic mouthwash as directed; avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting in the first 48 hours
  • Eat a soft or liquid diet for the first week following chin or cheek implant surgery to avoid excessive jaw movement
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for two to three weeks
  • Avoid direct pressure on the implant area - sleep on your back rather than your side during the initial healing period
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to confirm healing, incision integrity, and implant position

Frequently Asked Questions

Are facial implants permanent?

Yes - facial implants are designed as a permanent augmentation. The implant integrates with the surrounding tissue over time and becomes a stable, long-term part of the facial structure. While implants can be removed or replaced if required, this is uncommon. The implant material - medical-grade silicone elastomer - is biocompatible, does not degrade over time, and does not require replacement at a fixed interval. In the rare event of facial trauma causing implant fracture, replacement is straightforward.

Will a chin implant make my nose look smaller?

This is one of the most clinically well-established effects of chin augmentation. Facial balance is proportional - when the chin is underdeveloped relative to the mid-face and nose, the nose can appear more prominent than it actually is. Advancing the chin with an implant brings the lower face into better proportion with the mid-face, and the nose frequently appears more appropriate in size as a result - without any change to the nose itself. This is why chin augmentation is often recommended as an alternative or complement to rhinoplasty in patients concerned primarily about nasal prominence.

How visible is the scarring after facial implant surgery?

Incision placement is planned to minimise visible scarring. For chin implants, the incision is made either inside the mouth (intraoral - no visible scar) or in the natural crease beneath the chin, where any scar is virtually imperceptible. For cheek implants, incisions are placed inside the mouth through the upper gum. Both approaches result in scars that are either completely hidden or heal to near-invisibility. Your surgeon will discuss the most appropriate incision approach for your specific anatomy at consultation.

Can facial implants be combined with other procedures?

Yes - and this is common. Chin implants are frequently combined with rhinoplasty (nose surgery) to address overall facial balance. Cheek implants are sometimes combined with a facelift to restore mid-face volume alongside the structural tightening of the lift. Fat grafting can complement implant augmentation where additional soft-tissue volume is needed alongside structural enhancement. Your surgeon will advise on the most effective combination for your individual goals.