What Are Facial Implants?

If you’re looking for a permanent yet reversible enhancement of a specific area of the face— such as the cheekbones or jawline—facial implants are the ideal option. They are permanent because, unlike injectable fillers that are reabsorbed, implants remain stable. And they’re reversible, because if for whatever reason you change your mind one day, you can take them off.

The areas treated with facial implants include the jawline, jaw angle, cheekbones, areas around the nose (paranasal), and the forehead.

Types of Implants

We classify them as silicone implants or PEEK implants.

Silicone Implants

They are prefabricated and can be shaped to fit each patient’s specific measurements and anatomy. They are placed directly above the bone, beneath the muscles, and secured with micro-screws so that they remain immobile. They are inserted through small incisions made inside the mouth. The effect is immediate, and the inflammation subsides quickly: in 2 or 3 days.

PEEK Implants.

It is a biocompatible resin that is custom-made for each patient based on the patient’s scan and the volume we want to increase. Therefore, they are the most precise and anatomically accurate option we can offer you today. Through a photographic simulation process, we see the area’s volume increase. We transfer this data to the patient’s CT scan or facial scan, and then 3D-print a custom implant for the patient. They are placed just above the bone, beneath the muscles, and secured with micro-screws so that they remain immobile. They are inserted through small incisions made inside the mouth. The effect is immediate, and the inflammation subsides quickly: in 2 or 3 days.

Treatment Process

The process begins with an aesthetic and functional evaluation, photographs, and a 3D scan. Using that information, Dr. Joan Birbe digitally plans the type, size, and position of the facial implant (cheekbone, jaw, or chin). We’d like to share a forecast of the results with you before we move forward. The surgery is performed in an operating room, usually under general anesthesia or deep sedation. Access is intraoral, with no visible scars. The implants are positioned precisely, ensuring facial symmetry and harmony. Following the procedure, patients may be admitted for a short stay or treated on an outpatient basis, depending on the case, and will receive a detailed postoperative care plan.

Recovery time

Swelling is noticeable during the first 7–10 days and clearly subsides after 2 weeks. It is common to feel some tightness when speaking or smiling during the first few days, but this gradually goes away. We recommend a soft diet for 7–10 days, avoiding physical exertion for 3 weeks, sleeping with your head elevated, and applying cold compresses to the area for the first 48 hours. Social integration usually takes place within about 2–3 weeks. The final shape of the face becomes apparent between 6 and 8 weeks, when the tissues have finished adapting to the implant.

Expected Results

Facial implants provide a lasting structural change, resulting in a harmonious appearance when planning is precise. The projection of the cheekbones, jaw, or chin remains stable over time, since the material is biocompatible and is not reabsorbed. Patients report a noticeable improvement in facial harmony, without looking like they’ve had surgery. If at any time the patient wishes to have the implant removed or replaced, this is possible. We document the results with photographs and follow-up visits at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to confirm proper integration.

Duration of treatment

The procedure lasts between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the areas treated. Digital planning in advance requires one or two additional visits for scanning, taking photographs, and approving the plan. The entire process, from the initial consultation to the 3-month follow-up, usually takes 4–5 months. The 6- and 12-month follow-up visits conclude the primary follow-up period, although we recommend annual follow-up in the long term to confirm the stability of the results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Facial Implants

These are pieces made of biocompatible material (usually Medpor or medical-grade silicone) designed to enhance and define specific areas of the face: cheekbones, jawline, or chin. They are digitally designed to fit the patient’s anatomy. At Clínica Birbe in Barcelona, we use them when the goal is a lasting and personalized structural change.

Fillers are a quick and reversible option for small areas or when you want to try out a change. Facial implants provide long-lasting results and a more defined structural change, making them ideal for patients seeking long-term harmony. Dr. Joan Birbe, an ABOMS-certified specialist, helps determine the most appropriate option for each case.

Yes, when certified materials are used and the procedure is performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Digital planning allows you to choose the ideal size and shape. The intraoral technique prevents visible scars and reduces the risk of complications. We conduct periodic checkups to confirm that the implant has integrated properly.

Yes. One of the advantages of these implants is that they can be removed or replaced during a subsequent procedure if the patient’s preferences change or if circumstances arise that make it advisable. Preserving the original bone anatomy, without causing any associated damage, is one of the planning principles we follow in every case.

Dr. Joan Birbe: Facial Implants Planned According to the ABOMS Standard

Getting a facial implant is a life-changing decision: it defines your facial contours for many years to come. Dr. Birbe combines his ABOMS certification with 3D planning to design custom chin, jaw, or cheekbone implants when it adds value. Each procedure is determined by prioritizing the overall harmony of the face and avoiding the addition of volume where it is not warranted.

Why Get Facial Implants at Clínica Birbe?

Well-planned facial implants provide structure and harmony. When applied incorrectly, they look unnatural. That’s why we select cases carefully.
• Virtual implant design based on CBCT and facial scan data.
• Prefabricated implants or fully customized implants based on anatomical needs.
• Intraoral access without external scars, when the technique allows it.
• Coordination with orthognathic surgery or mentoplasty if the case requires a combined approach.
• Clinical and radiographic follow-up to confirm implant integration.


→ Schedule your appointment at Clínica Birbe Barcelona, and let’s explore whether a facial implant fits your aesthetic plan

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