Dr. Karsan’s Blog

Get Fuller Cheeks and Defined Cheek Bones with Cheek Augmentation

Have you noticed that your cheeks are becoming hollow? This is caused by diminished volume in the mid-face and cheeks as we age. The loss of volume causes the face to look gaunt and haggard. The result is a severe, aged appearance that doesn't reflect your youthful vitality.

 

Whether you've lost cheek volume due to aging or were born with small cheekbones, a qualified facial plastic surgery can:

 

  • Restore lost volume in the mid-face.
  • Create fuller cheeks.
  • Create more angular, chiseled cheek bones.
  • Restore facial balance.
  • Give you a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.

There are two options for increasing volume in the mid-face or cheeks. The first option is to use injectable fillers such as Radiesse®, Juvéderm® or Restylane® to enhance the cheeks. Many patients get striking results from injectable fillers. This non-surgical option offers patients a temporary solution that can last as long as eighteen months, depending on the filler used. The second option - cheek augmentation - offers a more permanent solution.

 

What is Cheek Augmentation?

 

Cheek augmentation is a surgical procedure in which an implant is placed into the cheek through a small incision made at the gum line. A snug pocket is created directly over the cheekbone in which the implant will be placed. Optionally, the cheek implant may be secured by affixing it to the bone or soft tissue. The entire procedure can be completed in less than an hour. Cheek augmentation can be performed as a single procedure or in connection with other cosmetic procedures. Since the implant is placed through the mouth so there is no visible scar.

 

Select a skilled, knowledgeable facial plastic surgeon with an eye for creating aesthetic proportion. Cheek implants are constructed of silicone or other biocompatible materials. Implants are available in multiple sizes and shapes. An experienced facial plastic surgeon will choose an implant that will accommodate your unique facial structure and create the desired result.

 

Most patients experience minimal discomfort from cheek augmentation. They may experience some tightness following the surgery due to the additional volume of the cheek implant. Some swelling is also expected immediately following surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with a list of post-surgery instructions to ensure the best recovery possible.

 

 

Am I a Good Candidate for Cheek Augmentation?

 

  • You may be a good candidate for cheek augmentation if you:
  • Have lost volume in your mid-face or cheeks due to aging.
  • Have hollow cheeks.
  • Were born with small cheek bones.
  • Want fuller, more youthful looking cheeks.
  • Want to achieve aesthetically harmonious facial balance.
  • Are considering other complementary cosmetic procedures.
  • Need a more long-term solution than injectable fillers offer.

A knowledgeable facial plastic surgeon will discuss possible options and help you determine whether cheek augmentation is right for you. Computer-generated imaging can give you a better idea of the final results you should expect from cheek augmentation. If you want to restore volume in the mid-face or create a more defined cheekbone call the office of Dr. Karsan - a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon - to make a consultation appointment today.

 

Get a Stronger Jaw Line and More Balanced Appearance with Chin Augmentation

Does your facial structure lack balance due to a smaller than average, "weak" or receding chin? A "weak chin" - one that is smaller or further back than the ideal projection of the chin  - changes the ideal proportion of the face. A person may be born with a less prominent chin or it may be the result of facial trauma or bone loss due to aging. A weak chin can distort other features. For instance, a weak chin can make a nose of average size appear larger, a forehead of normal size appear larger or make the neck appear less defined.

 

There are two options for achieving a more balanced look. The first option is the use of injectable fillers such as Radiesse®, Juvéderm® or Restylane®. Injectable fillers can add volume to a weak chin. The results achieved with injectable fillers can be quite dramatic. This non-surgical option offers a temporary solution which can last from six to eighteen months depending on the filler used. The second option - chin augmentation - offers a more permanent solution.

 

What is Chin Augmentation?

 

Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure in which a biocompatible implant is placed over the bone structure of the lower jaw to enlarge the projection of the chin and enhance facial balance. This procedure can be used to create a stronger or wider chin. It can even lengthen the face. Implants are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. An experienced facial plastic surgeon will select the best implant option based on the desired result and surgical technique employed. Chin augmentation can be performed alone or in conjunction with rhinoplasty to acquire a more balanced look.  It can also be used with liposuction of the neck to better define the neck or in combination with a facelift.

 

A facial plastic surgeon can perform chin augmentation using one of two approaches. An implant can be inserted through an incision underneath the chin or through an incision made inside the mouth. Silicone implants can be placed through a small incision underneath the chin. The implant is inserted directly over the bone in the lower jaw where a pocket is created to accommodate it. The procedure takes less than an hour.

 

Most patients experience minimal discomfort from chin augmentation. They may experience some tightness following the surgery due to the additional volume of the chin implant. Some swelling is also expected immediately following surgery. A garment or tape may be used to maintain the position of the implant during the period of swelling.

 

Chin augmentation is a relatively simple procedure. Still it is crucial to select an ethical, experienced facial plastic surgeon with thorough knowledge of facial structure and an eye for aesthetic balance. Patients can get a better idea of the final result of chin augmentation through the use of computer-generated imaging during initial consultation.

 

Am I a Candidate for Chin Augmentation?

 

If you want to enhance a weak chin and have normal function of the jaw, chin augmentation may be the right procedure to restore facial balance. Chin augmentation can be the perfect complementary procedure to other aesthetic surgeries - like a nose job, neck lift, neck liposuction or facelift. Call the office of Dr. Karsan - a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon - to make a consultation appointment to determine whether chin augmentation is right for you.

What is a Forehead Lift?

Do you look tired or sad even when you don’t feel that way? This may be caused by aging, heredity, or overuse of certain facial muscles. As we age our eyebrows descend. The outer brow descends at a faster rate than the inner brow. The muscles of the forehead work hard to correct this imbalance causing deep lines to form across the forehead. Eventually the forehead muscles are no longer able to compensate for the lowering of the brow. Certain inherited traits, stress, or over activity of the forehead muscles can leave younger adults with the same tired or sad look typically seen in older adults. A brow lift or forehead lift can reduce the effects of such traits or aging.

 

What is a Forehead Lift?

 

A forehead lift is a plastic surgery procedure used to reverse the effects of aging and gravity. An incision is made in the scalp, hairline, or temple. Excess skin and/or muscle are removed through the incision. The deeper tissues of the forehead are then 'lifted' to a level that is aesthetically pleasing and reattached. The skin and underlying tissues of the forehead are tightened giving the patient a more youthful appearance.

 

There are several approaches to the forehead lift. Your facial plastic surgeon will create a customized surgery plan for you during your initial consultation. Based on your unique facial structure an experienced facial plastic surgeon may choose one of the following four techniques to perform a forehead lift:

 

1. Coronal (within the hairline) - This is the most traditional technique for performing a forehead lift. An incision is made across the top of the head from ear to ear. The surgeon will manipulate the skin, muscles, and underlying tissue through this incision. A small strip of the scalp is removed and the skin is reattached. The hairline will be slightly elevated.

 

2. Hairline or trichophytic - This type is similar to the coronal lift. The incision is made directly in the hairline in a manner which camouflages it. Excess skin is removed and descending eyebrows are lifted without elevating the natural hairline.

 

3. Endoscopic - A few short incisions of approximately one inch are made behind your hairline. An endoscope with a tiny camera on the end is inserted in the incision. The surgeon is able to see underneath the skin and perform the forehead lift.

 

4. Temporal or lateral (side brow lift or partial brow lift) - This technique requires short incisions in the temple through which the outer brow is lifted. This technique will not elevate the hairline but it cannot be used to lift the inner brow. The results typically last 3 - 4 years, as opposed to the longer lasting results of a coronal or hairline forehead lift.

 

Selecting the Right Facial Plastic Surgeon

 

It is important to select an ethical, experienced facial plastic surgeon. A surgeon committed to helping you achieve beautiful, natural results will recommend the appropriate forehead lift technique based on factors like forehead anatomy, the degree of lift required, and the patient's preference. If the skin is pulled too taut it will result in a 'done' look or worse - a constant look of surprise. Request to see before and after photos of forehead lifts performed by any potential facial plastic surgeon. This will give you a clear idea of whether the surgeon's aesthetic matches yours.

 

Am I a Candidate for a Forehead Lift?

 

You may be a good candidate for a forehead lift if you are experiencing one of the following conditions:

  • Deep, horizontal forehead creases.
  • Furrows between the eyebrows.
  • Sagging eyebrows which cause a tired or sad look.

A forehead lift can reduce or eliminate the effects of gravity and signs of aging. It is a viable solution for patients who feel their facial features do not reflect the youthful vigor and energy they feel. Find out if a forehead lift can help you to look refreshed and rejuvenated. Contact the office of Dr. Karsan, facial plastic surgeon, today and request an initial consultation.

Banish Tired Eyes with Lower Eyelid Surgery

Do your eyes look tired even after a good night’s rest or a relaxing vacation? Do you have persistent bags and puffiness underneath your eyes? These are typical changes experienced as we age.

The cheek or mid-face descends as we age. This forms a groove under the eyelid that makes us look tired. The supporting tissue and muscle strength of the lower eyelid decrease with age. This results in fat herniation that causes puffiness under the eye.

 

What is Lower Eyelid Surgery?

 

Lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty) can greatly improve persistent puffiness underneath the eyes that results can often result from aging. During lower eyelid surgery the fat herniation which creates unwanted puffiness underneath the eye is removed. A small amount of skin may also be removed.

 

Two common approaches are used to perform lower eyelid surgery. The first option is to make an incision just below the lower eyelashes. Excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed through the incision. Fat may be redistributed to eliminate bulges or puffiness. Muscle laxity may also be corrected. The placement of the incision allows the scar to heal inconspicuously.

The second option for lower eyelid surgery is to make an incision inside the lower eyelid. Excess fat is removed through the incision. This option leaves no external scar, but does not allow for the removal of excess skin. A laser can be used in combination with this method to tighten the skin of the lower eyelid.

 

Selecting the Right Facial Plastic Surgeon for Lower Eyelid Surgery

 

Beautiful, natural results can be achieved with lower eyelid surgery. Finding an experienced facial plastic surgeon is the first step to getting the results you want. Look for a plastic surgeon with an excellent knowledge of the anatomy and an ideal aesthetic that closely matches yours.

 

An experienced facial plastic surgeon understands the intricate function of the lower eyelid. She will select the proper technique for your unique facial structure and remove just the right amount of fat. This is essential. Removing too much fat will leave the eyes looking hollow and almost skeletal. Preserving the right amount of skin, muscle, and fat will preserve proper function and give you a natural, refreshed look.

 

Your eyes play a significant role in the overall look of your face. Chronically puffy, tired-looking eyes can considerably age your face and mask your youth and vitality. Lower eyelid surgery – performed by a highly competent, experienced facial plastic surgeon – will leave you looking fresher, re-energized.

 

Learn how lower eyelid surgery can rejuvenate your look. Call Dr. Karsan, an ethical plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to schedule your personal consultation today.