Are you considering getting some work done on your face but can’t decide between using fillers or undergoing an implant procedure? You're not alone! This debate has become more intense today as people look for ideal ways to accomplish their desired looks.
Facial implants are made of silicone or any other compatible material and can be used to sculpt the jawline, cheekbones, or chin. On the other hand, fillers which are mostly derived from hyaluronic acid, offer an Injectable solution that is temporary but flexible enough to improve your looks.
In 2022, nearly 5 million individuals opted for filler procedures, drawn by the quick results and minimal downtime. However, don't overlook implants just yet—they are gaining popularity as a long-term solution, unlike typical treatments that require touch-ups every few months.
So, the question is not what is better, but what will work for you depending on a variety of constants and lifestyle factors. Facial Implants vs Fillers: Which is best for you?
Let’s find out!
What Are Facial Implants?
Facial implants are pre-shaped, solid devices made from materials like silicone or polyethene, specifically designed to enhance or reconstruct the shape of your face.
Subcutaneously placed, these implants are used to enhance a specific location, rectify asymmetry, or enhance the shape of facial features like the chin, jaw, and cheeks.
Types of Implants
There are numerous types of face implants, and each one is designed to target a certain area of the face. The most prevalent kinds include:
1. Cheek Implants
Cheek implants are used to enhance and define the cheekbones. They are ideal for those who want to achieve a youthful and chiselled look but have flat or underdeveloped cheeks. One benefit of cheek implants is their availability in various sizes and shapes, allowing them to be tailored to fit the patient’s facial structure.
2. Chin Implants
The primary purpose of chin implants, also known as genioplasty implants, is to enhance the size and form of the chin. Individuals who desire an enhanced profile, and at the same time, have a small or a sagging chin are the ones who are most likely to get these implants. Facial procedures such as chin implants are useful to firm up the jawline and the general facial structure.
3. Nose implants
Nose implants or silastic implants are commonly used with rhinoplasty surgery and may help to enhance the form and structure of the nose. These implants can be employed to augment the tip of the nose, correct the nasal bridge or for treatment purposes. Nasal implants, made from silicone, are used to correct specific features that a patient wishes to change. However, they are less common than cheek or chin implants.
Procedure of Facial Implants
The process of placing facial implants is a surgical procedure that typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation: During the first stage, a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic practitioner is essential. This is where they assess your facial structure to determine the cosmetic outcome you need and recommend the best implant suited for you.
- Anaesthesia: While local anaesthetic combined with sedation could be used at times, the most common format of the treatment is under general anaesthesia.
- Incision: Depending on the kind of implant to be placed, small incisions could be made in some specific areas for instance the floor of the mouth, lower lip inside cheeks or along the lower eyelids.
- Implant Placement: To place the implant the surgeon creates a pocket in the tissue of the face. The implant is positioned accurately in such a way that it offers the needed enhancement.
- Closure: The incisions are sutured to reduce the amount of swelling and to provide a layer of tissue to support the new shapes. After that, the area is wrapped. They let you enclose the space, giving you the freedom to customize its appearance.
Recovery
Recovery from facial implant surgery varies depending on the type of implant and the individual’s overall health. But here’s what you can generally expect:
- Initial Recovery: After the operation, the majority of patients complain of pain, swelling, and bruising, usually in the first few days after the operation. Pain can be managed with prescription drugs and to reduce swelling, one has to keep the head up.
- Resuming Normal Activities: While you can usually go back to work and engage in mild activities in 1 to 2 weeks, it may take several weeks for the swelling to fully resolve and observe the final results.
- Possible Complications: The use of facial implants carries some risks, as with any surgical procedure. Potential complications include scarring, infection, and implant movement. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed or repositioned. To achieve the best results and minimize complications, it's essential to follow your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions carefully.
- Extended Outcomes: One benefit of face implants is that they are permanent. You won't need any additional treatments after the healing phase is finished to keep the newly formed facial contour for several years.
What Are Fillers?
Facial or dermal fillers are products that are administered via injection to add volume, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance the facial structure. These fillers are biocompatible and developed to resemble the structure of skin tissue. Being non-surgical procedures, fillers provide immediate temporary solutions for facial beauty improvement satisfying those patients who want minor changes.
Types of Fillers
There are different types of facial fillers, each designed to address distinct cosmetic concerns. The most common types include:
1. Fillers with hyaluronic acid (HA)
The skin naturally contains hyaluronic acid whose primary function is to retain moisture in the skin as well as maintain skin volume. HA fillers, like Juvederm and Restylane are often used to bolster cheek contours, plump up the lips, and streamline wrinkles. HA fillers commonly require six to eighteen months to take effect depending on the type of filler and the area being treated.
2. Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA) Fillers
Calcium hydroxyapatite is an inorganic material which is found in the bones of the body. When used in facial fillers such as Radiesse, CaHA is used to make the fillers denser and thicker for the wrinkles and folds. It also encourages the production of collagen and therefore contributes to the longevity of its results. Generally, the expected life cycle of CaHA fillers is 12-18 months.
3. Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers
Polylactic acid is a synthetic material that stimulates the production of collagen in the body. Unlike other filler materials which show immediate results, PLLA fillers like Sculptra work over several months to restore facial volume. The effects may last up to 24 months, thus deeming PLLA as the most preferable by those in need of long-lasting, less shedding treatment.
Procedure
The process of administering facial fillers is non-surgical and minimally invasive, typically involving the following steps:
- Consultation: In most cases, you will discuss with an experienced injector before the filler procedure so that you both agree on your goals and which filler is ideal for you. Your injector will then examine the contour of your face and recommend a treatment plan based on your objectives.
- Preparation: The treatment zone is washed then an anaesthetic agent is applied to minimize the pain because of the injection made.
- Injection: The number of injections and the amount of filler to be injected will depend on the treatment plan. The procedure may last for a maximum of thirty minutes, determined by the areas under treatment.
- Molding and Massage: Once the procedure is completed and the filler is injected, the injector may rub the area slightly to ensure even distribution of the filler and the proper contouring of the area is achieved.
Recovery
The healing of the filler injections is typically quick and straightforward, with most patients experiencing minimal downtime. Here’s what you can expect:
- Immediate Effects: The outcomes of HA and CaHA fillers are usually apparent immediately after the procedure, while PLLA fillers take a few months to take complete effects as collagen building gradually emerges.
- Minor Side Effects: Some adverse effects include oedema, erythema, ecchymosis and pain at the sites of injection. These effects are often mild and subside after a couple of days. It is advised after treatment to apply ice packs on the areas treated as this will help to minimize inflammation and pain.
- Returning to Normal Activities: Discomfort is usually minimal and patients do not require a long recovery time as most can go back to their activities immediately after the procedure. Nevertheless, it is advised to abstain from vigorous activities, exposure to direct sunlight, and alcohol consumption for a day or two after the treatment.
- Potential Complications: Most facial fillers are safe, but there are potential problems, such as an allergic reaction, infection, and the migration of fillers. There may also be issues like overcorrection or uneven filling, however, these are usually addressable with further treatments or, in the case of HA fillers, can be undone with hyaluronidase.
- Longevity of Results: The length of facial filler results may differ according to the type of filler employed and the part of the face treated. Facial fillers are less invasive compared to implant surgery and normally require touch-up sessions, which makes fillers more versatile but temporary than implants.
Facial Implants VS Fillers: Key Differences
When opting for a facial implant or filler, it is important to know the differences in longevity, accomplishment, pricing structure, dangers, and maintenance. Each option has its advantages, your choice should be based on your interests and objectives. So, facial implants vs fillers: Which is best for you?
1. Durability
Facial Implants:
- Longevity: Another major benefit of facial implants is that they are long-lasting. They are made to be used for a lifetime and are meant to provide a permanent solution to facial augmentation requirements. Once implanted they remain in position and do not require further medical intervention.
- No Need for Re-Treatment: Unlike fillers which need to be replaced frequently, facial implants are only installed once. This makes them particularly suitable for people who desire long-term transformation but may only sometimes need to visit their surgeon or injector.
Fillers:
- Temporary Results: Dermal fillers are temporary, and their results may last from six months to a couple of years, depending on the filler utilized. For instance, hyaluronic acid fillers can last for 6-18 months, while poly-L-lactic acid fillers may last for about 2 years.
- Regular Maintenance: Fillers must be re-administered regularly to retain their effects. This can become expensive and tiresome in the long run, but it’s useful to people who don’t wish to make long-term alterations.
2. Results
Facial Implants:
- Immediate and Long-Term Impact: Facial implantsare cosmetically invasive procedures that can result in a highly striking and irreversible alteration to one’s facial contour. The effects can be observed right after the recovery and they do not deteriorate over time. They are very suitable for clients seeking major changes such as uneven faces or inadequate areas that need a boost such as weak chins or cheeks.
- Structural Enhancement: Since implants are solid objects, the changes they bring to the facial structure are more apparent and stable, adding volume and symmetry to the areas that require it.
Fillers:
- Subtle and Natural-Looking: Fillers are perfect for individuals who want a less invasive form of treatment and enhancement. They are great for replenishing lip contours, erasing facial lines and creases, and enhancing cheek shapes while maintaining moderate changes to the face. The outcomes are instant though short-term thus enabling further modification in the long run.
- Gradual Improvement: Some fillers like poly-L-lactic acid act gradually to stimulate collagen production and thus give gradual and natural results over several months.
3. Cost
Facial Implants:
- Higher Initial Cost: Facial implant procedures are more expensive and can cost anywhere between$3,000 and $19,000 depending on the kind of implant used and the scope of the surgery required. This fee entails the charges of the surgeon, anaesthesia, and the use of an operating room.
- Long-Term Savings: Of course, facial implants will cost a patient more initially than it will to get a filler session. However, the need for such procedures may not be as frequent.
Fillers:
- Lower Initial Cost: Facial fillers are cheap initially, averaging between $500 and $2,000per syringe depending on the type of filler and the site of injection. However, in some cases, it may require the use of several syringes to accomplish the goal that is intended.
- Ongoing Expenses: Fillers are temporary and this means that one will need to top up the treatment once in a while. These treatments, if accumulated for several years, could total a hefty amount which could be equivalent to a single implant procedure.
4. Risk Factors
Facial Implants:
- Surgical Risks: Facial implantslike any other surgery are not without risks, these include infection, scarring, shifting of the implant, and problems that may occur with anesthesia. Recovery time is also extensive, with swelling and bruising taking a few weeks to subside.
- Potential for Revision Surgery: Occasionally, the implants will have to be removed or repositioned, and this will call for other surgery. This could further escalate the overall risk and cost.
Fillers:
- Minimally Invasive Risks: Facial fillers are comparatively safer than surgery. Potential side effects aremostly minor and last for 2-7 days.
- Reversibility and Allergic Reactions: Hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible, meaning they can be dissolved using enzymes should the outcomes be undesirable, for patient safety. In any case, they can cause an allergic reaction or infection and in some situations, vascular complications that may lead to tissue injury.
5. Maintenance
Facial Implants:
Low Maintenance: After the recovery period, facial implants last a long time and need very little attention. These treatments are not ongoing so for a “set it and forget it” kind of individual, they may work well.
Fillers:
High Maintenance: Results attained from facial fillers need augmentation follow-up treatments every 6 to 24 months. This depends on the type of filler. It needs periodic doctor visits, which is very time-wasting and costly.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Deciding between facial implants and fillers is always a personal decision. That is why, your daily plan, preferences, and goals are essential when deciding which option suits you best. Facial Implants vs Fillers: Which option is better for achieving your ideal look? Here is how to go about this crucial decision.
- Personal Preferences - Subtle vs. Dramatic Changes: If you want only a slight change, for example, slight lip enhancement or fine lines, the fillers are the better choice in such cases. The fillers allow one to make a slight alteration in their appearance in a manner that will enhance their beauty without making an abrupt change. But if you want a more dramatic change-chiseling your jawline or having high cheekbones-then facial implants are what would satisfy your needs.
- Temporary vs. Permanent - Consider whether you are after a temporary fix or whether you're ready to make a significant change. Fillers are temporary, and that's much easier on you trying out different styles that you may love. If you are looking for an effective lasting solution, then face implants will be more appealing.
- Lifestyle Considerations - Busy Schedule: If your lifestyle doesn't allow time for a long recovery then fillers could work for you better as it takes only a little of your time and you can go back to your business as usual. However, if you can afford some time off from work to heal, then the long-term benefits of havingfacial implants could be worthwhile.
- Comfort with Surgery - Remember, some people are open to surgery with all the risks involved, and some simply are not. Surgical facial implants are, therefore, not for every other person. If the thought of going under the knife makes you squirm, then fillers are your best bet.
- Desired Outcomes -If you want a long-lasting improvement and possibly not need to continuously get it touched up, then facial implantsare what you need to hear. In case you are one of those who doesn't mind changing your facial contours now and then or even remain indecisive about permanent results, then fillers give a great way to experiment with your face.
Conclusion
Regardless of which option you prefer – a facial implant or filler – the key is to do what is best for you and make you feel comfortable in your skin. Cosmetic enhancements are something that should only amplify your natural beauty and not change it entirely. Therefore, consider your options, seek advice, and then make the best decision.
Ready to elevate your skincare routine? Purchase our top-quality fillers from Diaminy Aesthetics today and experience the transformation your skin deserves. Don’t wait—shop now and invest in the beauty you’ve always wanted!
