Is Computer Facial Imaging What I Will Look Like?

Q: Dr. Eppley,These images are wonderful. I do like them very much.

Is this what I would look like with the vertical lengthening implant since I mentioned that or is this a customization of my face based on my goals in order to create a custom implant?
Is it possible to see what my chin would look like with the “extended anatomical chin” implant by Implantech and also the “mandibular pre jowl chin”? The mandibular pre jowl has the best wings for the jowls so I am open to that too.
These pictures include some chin lipo, right? I was planning to do chin lipo as well but the lipo doc said it wouldn’t help my soft tissue jowling. I also wonder if that is soft tissue jowling or my buccal fat pad?
If I do decide to do something custom, I would adjust the images slightly. I see little indentions still in front of the jowls (between the jowls and chin) so I would make it more straight by filling it in and the right side of the front view looks less straight than the left side.

A: In answer to your questions:

1) Imaging is a method to evaluate potential facial structural changes both in terms of proof of concept as well as to determine the patient’s tolerance of change. Once the imaging is done to the patient’s liking then it can be determined as to the best way to try and achieve it. In short, imaging sets the goals for the surgery.

2) EAC and pre jowl chin implants provide horizontal projection only, they are not capable of any vertical lengthening…which seems to be the primary change you need.

3) The images do include submental/ neck liposuction. But like many patients with fuller faces more complete facial defatting (buccal lipectomies and perioral liposuction) provides additional facial reshaping improvement.

4) Your reaction to the imaging is exactly its purpose…to determine the specifics of the patient’s goals.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon