Dr. Sam Lam Plastic Surgery Forum

Hi Dr. Lam, I had silicone (Implantech Large Trapezoid) cheek implants put in about 11 years ago when I was 24 yrs old. I have been very happy with them over the last 10 yrs but I'm beginning to feel like I look a little 'chipmunky'. I also am beginning to think that the rest of my face (forehead, eyes, lips, chin) are looking recessed because of the larger implant projection. I asked my original PS if I should have them removed and he said no. I'm 35, no children, use sunscreen religiously and am thin (never had any major weight shifts) - 5'10", 125lbs. The reason I'm stating all of this is because I've been reading your forum and have noticed you asking these questions in an effort to glean more information about that particular person's "skin" situation. I'm thinking seriously about having them removed but am very nervous that I will require a midface lift to compensate for the larger implant and timeframe. Could you tell me what you've experienced? Also, if appropriate, could you tell me the approx cost (ballpark range) to have the cheek implants removed without replacement? I'm happy to send you before/after pics as well if you'd like to see those. Thank you in advance for your reply!

here is my thought. typically when you hit mid-30s and beyond you start to lose fat to the point that cheek implants are exposed. if you liked them back in your 20s when you had more padding, the better solution may be to add fat around it. i would have to see photos to give you my thoughts.
best,
sml

Hi Dr. Lam, thank you for your feedback. Another question I forgot to ask in my previous post: do silicone cheek implants 'go bad' after a while? I know that silicone breast implants need to be replaced throughout your life, but I wasn't sure if there was a way your body could suffer from any sort of 'silicone toxicity' or poisoning if the implant is solid?
Secondly, I would be happy to send you photos of my before/after - could you please provide your email address?

no, they do not go bad. since the implants are placed on bone, they don't move unlike breasts and do not suffer the same problem. however, implants over time can cause a little bit of bone erosion which afterward can make the face look slightly different if they are removed but typically not enough to create any problems with the bone integrity. the real problem is as one ages the soft tissue over the implant disappears and the result looks like you can then see the implant. i am gone for a few days for a reunion so i apologize in advance if i do not respond on a timely basis. my email is samlammd@yahoo.com. when you send please summarize your situation again.
thanks,
sml

Sorry for interrupting !!!
If we do not remove them overtime is there any harm. Like i dont want to remove them ever what will be the effect ?
Gyms in Arlington

no, i don't believe so. should be fine.