Cheek Implant Removal - How Long Do I Have to Wait?

Question

Hi, i just had cheek implants Xl malar/submalar put in on Dec7th 2010, how long will i typically have to wait, before another PS will remove this from my face, im very depressed over this, and cant function, until this nightmare is over, the original PS will not remove it. i had the implants done in Fla, but i live in Honolulu, so i am trying to find someone there who is willing to help me. Ryan

Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD · Answer

You can have the implants removed at any time. It would be extremely helpful if the surgeon who removes them has the operative report from the surgeon who inserted them so they know how they were fixed into place. The removal should be a relatively simple procedure.

Kevin Sadati, DO · Answer

Dear Cheek Implant Patient from Honolulu,
	Since you just had cheek implants, I would recommend you to wait for at least another month. I believe that your surgeon also thinks the same way. There are some degrees of swelling and also you need to get used to your new look. In one month, if you feel that those implants are not for you, then go ahead and have them removed. There is no time line when an implant can be removed, they can come out at any time. Good luck and good healing

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

I am thinking your Dr. is confident you will like your results if you wait for the implants to settle and for all of the swellling to subside. The ultimate decision is up to you, you can have them removed at any time. I am imagining you still have some swelling. Possibly if you wait, you may be pleased with the results.

Ali Sepehr, MD · Answer

Dear patient,

	I am sorry the results were not what you were expecting. 

	Cheek Implant removal can technically performed at any time.  However, there are two reasons to wait at least 1 month and prefereably 6 weeks. 

	The first reason is that there is some post operative swelling in the early healing period which can affect the look and prevent patients from seeing the true or ultimate results. 

	The second reason is one of safety.  While removal at any time has low risk, the earlier it is attempted, inflammation is likely to obscure the anatomy, and there is slightly higher risk to surrounding structures, such as the nerve that provides sensation to the cheek and upper lip.  This is especially true if a different surgeon is removing them.  A complete operative report would be helpful. 

	I hope this is helpful,

	Ali Sepehr, MD Facial Plastic Surgeon Irvine, Orange County, California

Samer W. Cabbabe, MD, FACS · Answer

You can have them removed at any time.  Your cheek fullness can be restored down the road with a midface lift or cheek lift.

Cheek Implant Removal - How Long Do I Have to Wait?

Answers (9)