Should I Get PEEK Jaw Implants?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inquire about jaw and chin implants for my aesthetic concerns.

Based on my facial structure, I am wondering if a custom or non-custom implant would provide me with a better aesthetic result. Additionally, I am curious about the cost comparison between a custom wrap-around implant versus separate chin and jaw implants.

Lastly, I am interested in your opinion on using PEEK implants for this procedure and their respective pricing. Would you recommend PEEK implants for me based on my facial anatomy?

Thank you for your time and expertise. I appreciate any information you can provide on these matters.

A: A custom jawline implant is always the better jaw augmentation method over the use of three standard chin and jaw angle implants for both aesthetic reasons as well as a lower potential risk of complications. (asymmetry, implant malposition) The only reason to ever use standard implants is cost as long as one can accept their higher risk of aesthetic complications.

When it comes to implant materials, the body doesn’t care. An implant is an implant is an implant in how it reacts to it. It treats them all the same by a normal encapsulation reaction. And they all will feel like bone. There are, however, differences in how they are designed and surgically placed between the completely rigid (e.g., PEEK) and the semirigid silicone materials. There are also major cost differences between them, at least in the U.S.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon