Should I Get Custom or Standard Cheek Implant Replacements?

Q: Dr. Eppley,I have currently have silicone implants, size medium. Please see link to the model below:

https://www.implantech.com/product/conform-terino-malar-shell/

Previously to this, I had the combine malar shell implants in size small:

https://www.implantech.com/product/combined-submalar-shell-2/

I absolutely loved these implants and feel they really suited my face. Unfortunately I developed a small infection, so the surgeon opted to remove them and do a wash out. When he reinserted the implants, they had ordered a different model by mistake which is what I have now!

I feel the projection is not quite right and would like something that projects a little lower in my mid face.

I have had the current implants for over a year now. My goal would be to either remove these implants and do a custom implant, or remove these implants and replace with the original model.

A:The effects of any facial implant is a function of the implant’s shape and size as well as its placement. You are assuming in looking at these two different cheek implant effects that they have identical placement both times and the only difference is in the two implant shapes and sizes. Assuming  that to be true, which is a big assumption in facial implant surgery, if you were happy with the first set of implants logically that would mean you should just replace what you currently have with the original malar shell implants.

Oner of the benefits of custom implants is the ability to create implant designs which do not currently exist as an off-the-shelf available implant.One of the other benefits of custom implants is the ability to see exactly where’s your current implants are placed and then designs can be made around to specifically create the optimally desired implant shape.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon