Custom Jaw Implant Design with Existing Chin and Jaw Angle Implants

Q: Dr. Eppley, two years ago I have had chin and jaw implants done. I like the results, but I want something much better and I have researched your practice and can see that you perform custom implants in that same area that go all around the lower face and I am interested in that. Just before I take the big step to make appointments I would just like to know that is it necessary to remove the implants and wait some time for face to heal and get the CT scan or is the removal of the implants I have already and to put new ones are all done at the same time? Thanks a lot for the help.

A: It is not necessary to remove your current implants to either design or place a custom jaw implant. As a matter of fact that would actually be contradictory to what should be done. Besides creating the need for extra surgery and scar tissue, your current implants will help guide the design of the new custom jaw implant. Since you already know the effect that the current implants create, this is invaluable information in helping make the new implant design which will be done on the computer right over them. It is more predictable to get to where you want to go if you know where you have already been. The computer design can see the implants and then digitally remove them to make the final design.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana