Do facial implants need to be replaced, and how long do they last?

Facial implants are a permanent aesthetic and functional solution designed to improve the harmony and definition of the face. However, one of the most common questions among patients is whether these implants need to be replaced over time, or if they last indefinitely.

In this article, the specialists at Face Clinic explain how long facial implants last, in which cases replacement may be necessary, and how to maintain them in excellent condition over the years.

In general, facial implants are designed to be permanent medical devices. (In the image, customised implants from Face Clinic).

How long do facial implants last?

Facial implants, such as jaw implants or cheek implants, generally last a lifetime and are considered permanent, unless a complication arises that requires removal, or the patient chooses to replace them for aesthetic reasons.

They are made from highly durable, biocompatible materials —such as medical-grade silicone, titanium or PEEK— which do not degrade or get reabsorbed over time. This makes them a safe and long-lasting option to improve facial proportions.

However, the natural ageing process continues to affect the surrounding tissues, meaning the face may age differently from the area where the implant was placed. As a result, even if the implant remains intact, facial expression can change over the years.

Factors that may affect their longevity

• Type of material: Synthetic implants (silicone, PEEK, titanium) provide virtually indefinite durability. Autologous grafts —made from the patient’s own bone or fat— may partially reabsorb over time.
• Complications: In rare cases, irritation, infection, deformation or implant exposure may require removal or replacement.
• Changes in facial structure: Natural ageing and skin laxity can slightly alter facial appearance, even if the implant remains stable.
• Aesthetic reasons: Some patients may wish to modify their appearance over time and opt for implant replacement or adjustment, even without medical complications.

Additional considerations

• Permanent results: The goal of facial implants is to provide long-lasting, stable results that remain unchanged over the years, provided there are no complications.
• Not all implants are the same: It is essential to distinguish between permanent implants (chin, cheekbones, jawline) and resorbable dermal fillers, which provide temporary results.

In this video, Dr Riba explains how long facial implants last and when they may need to be reviewed.

When might they need to be replaced?

Although designed to be permanent, there are certain situations where replacement may be recommended:

• Displacement or breakage of the implant.
• Persistent infection or inflammatory reaction.
• Voluntary aesthetic changes requested by the patient.

In most cases, facial implants do not need to be replaced. With proper placement and regular check-ups, they can last throughout the patient’s lifetime.

Conclusion

Facial implants provide long-lasting and permanent results, as long as appropriate medical follow-up is maintained. Although replacement is rarely required, it is advisable to attend periodic check-ups to ensure correct integration and maintain facial harmony over time.

At Face Clinic Spain, our specialists in maxillofacial and facial plastic surgery use customised 3D implants and state-of-the-art materials, ensuring safe, natural and long-term results.

Dr. Francisco Riba García

Dr Francisco Riba García, specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ICOMEM no. 28375865), has over 25 years of experience in Maxillofacial, Aesthetic and Facial Plastic Surgery.

He is the Medical Director and Founder of Face Clinic, Head of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department at La Zarzuela and La Moraleja Hospitals (Madrid), and a member of the most prestigious scientific societies, including the European Board of Oro-Maxillo-Facial Surgery.

View full profile of Dr. F. Riba