Consider all your options before undergoing cosmetic surgery.
No human face is perfectly symmetrical. Features naturally develop with asymmetry, which can appear as a crooked nose, a weak chin, or weak cheekbones. There are several cosmetic surgeries that can reduce the impact of asymmetrical features. As with any surgery, risks and expected results should be assessed prior to scheduling the procedure. It is also important to research your surgeon.
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nosejob, is one surgical procedure that can reduce facial asymmetry. Rhinoplasty can correct myriad problems, from a crooked nose, to a bulbous tip. Bumps in the bridge of the nose can be shaved down and straightened, and the nose can be made smaller overall. Rhinoplasty costs vary by location and, as all the other surgeries discussed here, is not usually covered by insurance. The average cost for rhinoplasty is typically about $4,700, as of June 2010.
Chin Augmentation
Chin augmentation is a procedure that attaches an silicone or Porex implant onto the chin bone, which balances the entire face. Chin implants are curved and usually cup the sides of the chin, bringing more symmetry to the jawline as well. (Implants can be shaped and sized to your face for the best possible results.) The implant brings the chin forward and creates a more balanced symmetry to the upper and lower portions of the face, and creates a stronger profile. A weak or receding chin can distort the proportions of the nose; it can often make the nose appear larger because the face is not evenly proportioned.
Chin implants are commonly inserted through an incision on the underside of the chin (which may leave a tiny scar), but can also be inserted through a tiny incision in the mouth. They are secured to the bone or soft tissue with dissolveable sutures, and the implant eventually becomes part of the body as tissue grows over it. This procedure is usually performed by a cosmetic surgeon or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Chin implants vary in cost, but generally range between $3,000 to $5,000, as of June 2010.
Cheek Implants
Cheek implants (also called malar/submalar augmentation) help to make the face more proportionate by creating a projection from the natural cheekbones, and bringing the cheeks into better balance with your other features. This procedure may be appropriate for individuals who want to enhance weak cheekbones, or restore a youthful fullness to their face.
Cheek implants are typically done through an incision at the top of the upper lip, or on the outer cheek. A pocket is created in the tissue, and the implant is inserted into the pocket. (Implant shape and size can be tailored to your face; your surgeon will select the appropriate implant for you.) The implant is secured to the cheekbone with dissolveable sutures, and the incisions are closed with sutures. Cheek implants vary in cost, but generally average $2,400 to $5,000, as of June 2010.
What to Expect
Most surgeons are affiliated with a hospital where they will perform the procedure, although some have operating facilities in their office. The surgeon will tell you what time to arrive at the hospital or office, and a nurse will prep you for surgery upon arrival. The doctor will visit you and mark your face with a permanent marker to show you exactly where the incisions and refinements will be made. You will then be visited by an anesthesiologist, who will give you an IV to place you under general anesthesia. You will then be taken into an operating room, where the surgeon will perform the procedure. These procedures can usually be performed in two hours or less. The next step is the recovery room, where you'll most likely feel a little -- or a lot -- woozy from the anesthesia. You'll be given time to rest and relax. Most procedures allow patients to be sent home the same day.
Research Doctors Thorougly
When considering any type of plastic surgery, it is important to do extensive research on both the procedure and several surgeons. The surgeon you choose should be certified by a major professional association, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABMS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), or the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Your surgeon must also maintain a valid license to practice medicine for the state in which he/she performs your procedure.
Discuss Your Options with Your Surgeon
Have an honest conversation with your surgeon about the realistic results of the surgery you're considering. It's important to maintain a realistic expectation of the outcome. Although your surgeon can show you before-and-after photos of his or her previous work, remember that each person is different, and your results may not look like the photos. Your surgeon should be up front about what he can do for you, and what you should expect.
Tags: Cheek implants, Chin implants, June 2010, surgeon will, your face, your surgeon, cost generally
