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Scars
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1cm inside the upper cheek
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Operation time
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1.5 hours
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Anaesthesia
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General or Local
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Hospital Stay
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Day Surgery
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Benefits
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Cosmetic, Psychological
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Risks
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Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (thick, retracted etc.), Skin discoloration, Wound separation, Slough, Pain, Nerve injury (Numbness, weakness, paralysis), Injury to parotid (=salivary) duct, Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection (hollowness), Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Cosmetic imperfections, Seroma, Problems with jaw movement, Functional problems, Contour irregularities, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction
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(General Anaesthetic: Chest infection, Heart attack, Stroke, Blood clots in legs & lungs)
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N.B. Most complications are unlikely and serious risks are rare
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Risk factors
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Smoking within 6 weeks of surgery, overweight, high blood pressure, bleeding tendency, diabetes
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(General Anaesthetic: Contraception / flights within 6 weeks of surgery)
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Optimising factors
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Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, scar massage
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Discomfort
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1 – 2 weeks
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Bruising
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2 – 3 weeks
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Recovery
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Light activities and driving 3 – 7 days, Physical work & sports 4 weeks
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Acceptable appearance
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2 – 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective)
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Final result
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6 – 18 months
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Alternatives
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No Surgery, Make–up, Weight loss, Lipolysis, Liposuction
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