Treatment face

Facial Implants in the UK

Enhance facial definition and symmetry with facial implants. This transformative aesthetic solution is designed to enhance facial contours and address areas that may lack definition.

Facial implants are an effective option for individuals who feel their features lack projection, contour or structure. Whether due to genetics or age-related volume loss, implants can restore definition and improve overall facial proportions.

Using high-quality silicone or custom-made biocompatible materials, the implants are shaped to blend seamlessly with your natural anatomy, providing long-lasting enhancement without altering your unique facial character.

Mr Paul Wilson is a highly regarded expert in facial aesthetics, well known for his exceptional skill and dedication to patient satisfaction. With years of experience and advanced training in facial surgery, you’ll be in good hands at Paul Wilson Aesthetics. Prior to obtaining his medical degree, Mr Wilson graduated in dentistry and trained in maxillofacial surgery for several years, giving him extensive expertise in facial anatomy and surgery.

About

What are facial implants?

Facial definition is shaped by a combination of factors, including genetics, ageing and natural variations in bone structure. Some individuals have softer or less prominent contours in areas such as the cheeks, chin or jawline, which may create an imbalance in overall facial proportions. Over time, age-related changes, such as volume loss, reduced bone density and thinning of soft tissues, can further diminish definition, contributing to a flatter or more hollow appearance.

Facial implants offer a tailored solution to enhance these key structural areas. Using high-quality silicone implants or custom-made biocompatible materials, the procedure is designed to add projection, improve symmetry and create a more sculpted, harmonious facial profile. Each implant is carefully selected and shaped to complement the patient’s natural features, achieving long-lasting enhancement.

Types

Types of facial implants

Facial implants come in several forms, each designed to enhance specific areas of the face and improve overall balance. The most commonly used implant types include:

Chin implants

Chin implants add projection and definition to the lower face, creating a stronger chin profile and improving harmony between the chin, nose and jawline. This option suits individuals with a naturally recessed or under-projected chin.

Mandibular Angle implants

Jaw implants enhance the width and structure of the jawline, creating a more sculpted, balanced and defined appearance. They are particularly suited to patients who feel their jawline lacks contour.

Cheek implants

Cheek implants restore or enhance cheekbone projection by adding volume to the mid-face. They are used to correct flat or hollow cheeks, reinforce natural facial contours and create a lifted and youthful appearance.

Materials

Facial implants may be either off-the-shelf or custom-made, depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Off-the-shelf implants

These include commercially produced options such as those from Implantech and Stryker Medpor.

Implantech implants are crafted from high-quality, implant-grade silicone.
Medpor implants (by Stryker) are made from porous polyethylene.

Custom-made implants

For patients requiring a tailored solution, custom implants can be designed using PEEK (PolyEtherEtherKetone) or porous polyethylene.

benefits

What are the benefits of facial implants?

Facial implants offer several advantages, which include:

candidates

Who is a good candidate for facial implants?

Facial implants may be suitable for individuals who:

Are in good overall health
Are non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
Have realistic expectations about results and recovery
Feel their chin, cheeks, or jawline lacks definition or projection
Want to correct facial asymmetry or improve overall facial balance
Wish to enhance their features with long-lasting structural support rather than temporary fillers
Have excellent oral health, we advise a scale and polish by your hygienist and a dental check up prior to surgery

What to expect

What to expect during facial implants?

Consultation

During your consultation, Mr Wilson will assess your facial structure in detail, focusing on the areas you wish to enhance, such as the chin, cheeks or jawline. He will examine bone structure, soft-tissue volume, facial symmetry and overall proportions to determine whether facial implants are the most appropriate option for achieving your goals.

A pre-operative CT scan is performed for all implant procedures to assist with precise planning. Using this scan, a 3D-printed model is created so you can visualise how the implant will fit and how its proportions relate to your facial skeleton.

Your medical history, concerns and aesthetic preferences will be discussed to ensure the treatment plan is tailored specifically to you. Mr Wilson will explain the types of implants available, how they are placed and what results you can expect.

This consultation is an opportunity to ask questions, understand your options and feel fully informed before deciding to proceed.

Anaesthesia and Procedure Time

Facial implant surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort and optimal surgical precision. In some cases, local anaesthesia with sedation may be appropriate, depending on the implant type, treatment area and individual patient considerations. This will be discussed during your consultation.

The procedure usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of implants placed and the areas being treated (such as the chin, cheeks, or jawline).

Mr Wilson will confirm the most suitable anaesthetic approach and expected procedure time as part of your personalised treatment plan during your consultation.

Surgery

Facial implant surgery begins with carefully planned incisions placed in discreet locations to minimise visible scarring. The incision site varies depending on the type of implant:

Chin implants: inside the mouth or under the chin
Cheek implants: inside the upper lip or just beneath the lower eyelid, or combined with a facelift approach
Jaw (mandibular angle) implants: inside the mouth along the gumline

These approaches allow Mr Wilson to access the underlying bone structure while keeping scars well concealed.

After creating the incision, Mr Wilson forms a precise pocket over the bone to accommodate the implant. He positions and secures the off-the-shelf or custom-made implant, ensuring it integrates seamlessly with the natural facial contours.

Closure

Once the repositioning is complete, the incisions are meticulously closed using fine sutures and the area is bandaged to promote optimal healing and minimise scarring.

Recovery

Recovery and results of facial implants

Recovery after facial implants varies between individuals and depends on the type of implant placed and the extent of the procedure.

What to expect

Swelling, bruising and mild discomfort in the treated areas are common during the first one to two weeks. A feeling of pressure or tightness around the implant site is also normal, especially with cheek and chin implants. Temporary numbness around the cheeks, lips or lower face may occur and generally improves as healing progresses.

Keeping the head elevated, using cold compresses as advised and avoiding excessive facial movements in the early days can help reduce swelling. If incisions are placed inside the mouth, a soft diet and gentle oral care are usually recommended. As swelling gradually subsides, the enhanced contours and improved facial definition become more noticeable.

Activity and movement

Most patients can return to light daily activities or work within 1–2 weeks, depending on comfort and swelling. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and activities should be avoided for 4–6 weeks, or until cleared by Mr Wilson.

Follow-up care and long-term results

We arrange regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the implants settle correctly.

Initial improvements are visible within a few weeks, but final results continue to refine over several months as tissues adjust around the implants. With proper care, facial implants provide stable, long-lasting enhancement that maintains improved contours and facial balance for many years.

Risks & complications

Risks and potential complications of facial implants

As with any surgical procedure, facial implants carry some risks and potential complications. These may include:

Infection
Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
Delayed wound healing
Swelling or fluid build-up (seroma)
Temporary or, rarely, permanent nerve weakness
Changes in skin sensation, including numbness or tingling
Scarring or asymmetry
Shifting or movement of the implant
Adverse reaction to anaesthesia

Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks during your consultation, ensuring you are fully informed before deciding to proceed.

Fees

How much do facial implants cost?

The cost of facial implant surgery varies depending on several factors, including the type of implant (cheek, chin or jaw), whether the implants are custom-made, the complexity of the procedure and whether it is performed alone or alongside other treatments. Individual anatomy and aesthetic goals can also influence the overall price.

After a detailed consultation, you will receive a personalised quote outlining all associated costs. Mr Wilson will explain the pricing clearly, ensuring you have a full understanding before deciding whether to proceed.

Results

Facial implants before and after photos

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are facial implants safe?

Facial implants are considered safe when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon such as Mr Paul Wilson. The materials used, such as silicone or porous polyethylene, are biocompatible and designed to integrate with the body.

Complications, such as infection or implant shifting, are uncommon and minimised through proper surgical techniques and aftercare. A thorough pre-surgical consultation ensures the procedure is tailored to your health and aesthetic needs. By choosing a reputable surgeon, patients can further reduce risks and achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results.

What are facial implants made from?

Facial implants are typically made from biocompatible materials such as silicone or porous polyethylene (e.g., Medpor). Silicone implants are soft, flexible and easily removable if necessary, while porous polyethylene integrates with surrounding tissues to provide a stable, long-term result. Custom-made implants may also be manufactured from PEEK, a medical-grade hard polymer that offers exceptional strength and precision. The material used depends on the patient’s goals and the surgeon’s recommendation. All options are safe, durable and designed to mimic natural facial contours for seamless, harmonious results.

How long do facial implants last?

Facial implants are designed to be a permanent solution, providing long-lasting results. Unlike injectable fillers, they do not require periodic maintenance. However, ageing and changes in facial structure over time may alter the surrounding tissues, potentially necessitating adjustments or complementary procedures in the future. Proper care and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain the results for decades, ensuring patients enjoy enhanced facial contours and definition for many years.

When will follow-up appointments be scheduled after facial implants?

Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled within the first week after surgery to monitor healing and remove any sutures, if applicable. Additional appointments are arranged at 2-6 weeks and a few months post-surgery to evaluate progress and ensure optimal results.

Regular check-ins allow Mr Wilson to address any concerns, assess recovery and confirm that the implants have settled correctly. Patients should always follow their surgeon’s personalised schedule and contact them immediately if unexpected symptoms arise.

Can I drive after my facial implant surgery?

Patients should not drive immediately after facial implant surgery, especially on the day of the procedure. Anaesthesia and post-operative medications can impair coordination and reaction times.

It’s essential to arrange for someone to drive you home and provide support during the first 24-48 hours. Most patients can resume driving within a week, depending on their comfort level and healing progress. Always consult Mr Wilson or a member of his team before returning to driving, particularly if swelling or limited facial movement could affect your ability to drive safely.

How long do chin implants last?

Chin implants are designed to be long-lasting and, in most cases, can remain in place for decades. As they are made from durable, biocompatible materials such as silicone, they do not break down over time the way fillers do. Most patients never need their chin implant replaced unless they choose to adjust their results or experience a complication. With proper care, chin implant results are considered permanent.

What is the difference between facial implants and fillers?

Facial implants and dermal fillers both enhance facial contours, but they differ significantly in how they work and how long they last:

Facial implants are surgically inserted, solid structures that permanently enhance areas such as the chin, cheeks, or jawline. They provide long-term, predictable results and are ideal for structural changes.

Fillers are injectable gels, often made from hyaluronic acid, that add temporary volume. They require repeat treatments every 6–18 months and are better suited for subtle enhancement or early signs of volume loss.

In short, fillers offer temporary, non-surgical enhancement, while implants provide a permanent, more defined result.

How are cheek implants inserted?

Cheek implants are typically inserted through small, discreet incisions either inside the upper lip or along the lower eyelid, depending on the technique best suited to your anatomy.

Through these incisions, the implant is placed securely over the cheekbone in a precisely created pocket. This ensures the implant integrates smoothly with your natural contours and remains stable. Once positioned, the incisions are closed with fine sutures to support optimal healing and minimal visible scarring.

How long do cheek implants last?

Cheek implants are designed to be permanent. Made from stable, biocompatible materials, they maintain their shape over time and do not degrade. Most patients enjoy lifelong results without needing replacement. If desired, a cheek implant can be adjusted or removed in the future, but this is rarely necessary unless aesthetic preferences change or a complication occurs.

Will I need a CT scan of my face?

For cheek and mandibular angle implants, we recommend a CT scan and 3D-printed model prior to surgery. This allows us to evaluate implant options accurately and assess how each one fits against your individual anatomy. Chin implants can usually be selected without a CT scan or 3D model. However, all custom-made implants do require a CT scan, as the scan is essential for designing a precise, personalised implant.

Schedule your consultation

Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics

Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics not only for the team’s surgical expertise, but also for their thoughtful, honest and patient-centred approach to aesthetic care. To get started, book a consultation where our team will discuss your concerns, outline your goals and determine if facial implants is the right option for you.