Implants vs Injections FOR VOLUME: A Comparison Guide

If you have been thinking long and hard about facial volume, you may find yourself exploring options like implants or injections for volume. 

Each option has its unique considerations and understanding their potential limitations and the change effected is crucial before making any decision.

Understanding Each Cosmetic Procedure

Facial implants are surgical devices intended to add volume or provide structure to certain facial features. Common areas where implants may be used include cheeks, chin, and jawline.

These implants are often made from biocompatible (compatible with humans) materials like silicone or polyethylene. They are implanted beneath the skin during surgery.

Facial injections for volume on the other hand, are non-surgical treatments which involve injecting specific substances to temporarily add volume or relax the muscles in the injection site. 

Injections for volume vary based on the intended effect. Common types include hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, collagen, and calcium hydroxylapatite, all of which are chosen based on the patient’s needs and treatment areas.

Unlike implants, the results of injections are temporary and can last anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the substance used.

Downtime

Consideration of downtime is crucial, especially if you lead a busy lifestyle. Implant procedures generally involve a more extended recovery period due to the surgical nature of the intervention. 

Injections used for volume are minimally invasive treatments, and many individuals experience shorter recovery times compared to surgical procedures. 

However, recovery can vary from person to person depending on individual factors. 

For those with time constraints, injections may be an option to consider, but it is important to fully discuss the potential risks, benefits, and recovery expectations with a qualified professional before proceeding.

Anaesthesia

Implant procedures often require general anaesthesia due to their surgical nature. In contrast, injections for volume, typically performed as outpatient procedures, usually only necessitate local anaesthesia or numbing cream.

Potential Risks 

Both implants and injections for volume come with potential risks and complications. Implants may pose risks such as infection, scarring, and implant shifting. Injections can lead to issues like bruising, swelling, or in rare cases, allergic reactions. It’s crucial to thoroughly discuss these potential risks with your healthcare provider and choose the option that aligns with your risk tolerance and overall health.

Results / Permanence

The duration of results can vary significantly between procedures. No cosmetic procedure guarantees permanent results and outcomes vary from person to person.

Injections for volume may provide instantaneous effects, but these results are temporary and require periodic maintenance. Regardless of the procedure, factors like lifestyle, healing, and skin conditions may affect the longevity and appearance of the outcomes.

Making a Decision

Selecting between facial implants and injections for volume is a personal journey based on your unique preferences and circumstances. Consulting with your GP is paramount in ensuring a safe approach to your cosmetic journey. If you want to learn more about your options for facial implants and injections for volume in Sydney, reach out to Artiste Plastic Surgery. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras will evaluate your specific situation, discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns, and offer professional guidance regarding the most appropriate aesthetic treatment or cosmetic surgery procedure for your needs.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.