Can a cheek implant be replaced? (Photo)

Question

I got cheek implants 10 years ago and my right cheek always protruded more then my left. I feel pain & tingling in upper lip on right side when I press area in above right nostril, lip droops and numb since surgery, When I press area right next to the outer nostril I get tingly feeling on upper outer cheek, by the edge of my outer eye socket.I feel like it’s pressing on a nerve, it hurts at night pressing in pillow. Cheeks have indents too.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It is possible to replace cheek implants or to remove them completely.  An examination of you would be helpful to try and determine what might be causing the problems you are currently experiencing.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, if you're unhappy with your implants, they can be replaced. Well-placed fillers (Voluma, Radiesse, Bellafill), Sculptra or Fat are alternatives. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Any cheek implant can be replaced, silicone one much easier though. This may itself resolve the problem of the nerve compression. However, considering that you have elements of nerve injury which may not go away with implant replacement due to scaring around the nerve, one may consider exploration of the infraorbital nerve and neurolysis. Both intraoral approach (one most likely used to place the implants) and transconjuctival (lower eyelid incision placed inside of the lid) should be used in that case. This part of surgery, however, should not be done by a surgeon that has no experience in facial nerve/microsurgery. Good luck.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

This needs an in-person evaluation. If you're unhappy with your final results after cheek implants you have 2 options:
1)  Get a different implant 
2)  Have the implant removed
Placing a different sized implant will create a permanent solution.  It is rather easy and quick procedure to place a different implant if the implant is made of silicone.  
I hope this helps.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Implants can always be replaced. The issues you are describing need to be evaluated more prior to surgery. I would suggest having an in person evaluation to make sure there is nothing going on and what your best options are. Good luck.

Can a cheek implant be replaced? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Unhappy with Cheek Implants

Answer: Unhappy with Cheek Implants

Answer: Implant replacement

Answer: Implant replacement

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Everything you need to know about Cheek Implants

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Can a cheek implant be replaced? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Unhappy with Cheek Implants

Answer: Unhappy with Cheek Implants

Answer: Implant replacement

Answer: Implant replacement

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cheek Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.