Can Temporal Implants Widen My Head?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I read somewhere about temporal implants for head augmentation which I assume is of the muscle. If you add an implant there, wouldn’t it widen my head? And if so, how is it done with what type of implant and location?

A: It depends on what part of the temporal region in which the implant is placed and what type of implant is used. A preformed anterior temporal implant is now available that augments the temporal hollow. (the region between between the anterior temporal hairline and the eyebrows/side of the eye) which often occurs from aging, genetics, drug therapy or neurosurgical approaches. A larger preformed or custom mid-temporal implant is also now available that when placed below the muscle on the side of the head above the ears will increase the bitemporal dimension or width of the head. This as you can see, it is important to know what temporal region of augmentation one desires to select the right temporal implant style and location of augmentation.

Using implants for temporal augmentation is one of the newest areas of craniofacial implant development that has extended the use of implants in the face upward to that of the skull.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana