How long does it take to recover from silicone tear trough implant removal?

Question

I am considering having my tear trough implants removed via transconjunctival approach after having them for 6 months; though the surgeon did a wonderful job, I do not like how full my tear troughs look. Also, will this affect the mid face lift I had done? Or will the pockets be sutured in order to hole the lift? Thank you.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

It is absurd to pretend that removal of tear trough implants is a routine, common thing. Tear trough implants are a rarely performed surgery.  They are obsolete due to hyaluronic acid fillers which do much more than tear trough implants without surgery. So whoever placed them is an outlier. Removing the implant is rare. I personally developed the most versatile mid facelift for reconstructing the lower eyelid and mid face after botched surgery.  I use a hand carved ePTFE rim implant for structurally lifting the cheek. The tear trough implant can be placed through the lower eyelid, either transconjunctivally or transcutaneously, intraorally, or laterally with an extended facelift. It is possible to have a complication with the removal of the implant. For these reasons, you should be concerned about the removal of the implant.  It is not routine. The surgery will impact the shape and/or position of the eyelid and the mid face. This may necessitate additional reconstructive surgery in the future.  It is essential to work with a surgeon who actually does this type of surgery on a regular basis and not someone who simply agrees to take the implant out and does not understand the implications of doing so.

Paul Nazemi, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting your question.  Generally, it takes about two weeks for the swelling or bruising to subside after removal of the tear trough implants.  Although this should not affect the mid face lift that was performed, it is best to ask your own surgeon this question.

How long does it take to recover from silicone tear trough implant removal?

Answers (2)

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