What Type Of CT Scan Is Needed For Getting Custom Facial Implants?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have an virtual appointment with you this December. I plan to get custom facial implants, probably some time Summer or Fall next year. What is the timeline for when you get the CT and also how long before does the final implant design need to be finalized? Isn’t it a good idea to get the CT as close to the surgery as possible since there may be some minor bone changes just from aging?

A:It is generally a 3 month process from getting the CT scan to having the implant ready for surgery. It does not matter when the CT scan is done barring any surgery in the area of potential implantation. Some patibnts use scans that are years old for their custom facial implant designs. Contrary to popular perception there are only very minor bone changes that occur with aging, barring loss of one’s teeth, which do not affect implant designing and implant fit. Almost all custom facial implants are done in patients 59 years or younger where any bone changes due to aging are very minor and irrelevant.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World Renowned Plastic Surgeon