Being well-versed in the anatomy and physiology of the facial structures, oral and maxillofacial surgeons can help correct and enhance facial appearance. Only oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who have additional training and are accredited by the Singapore Dental Council, can perform certain invasive aesthetics facial procedures.
Facial cosmetic procedures that oral and maxillofacial surgeons can perform include (not exhaustive):
- Botulinum toxin injections
- Dermal fillers injections
- Chin surgery
- Rhinoplasty
- Facial implants (cheek, chin etc.)
- Otoplasty
- Eyelid surgery
- Thread lifts
- Submental liposuction
- Laser treatments
Cosmetic facial procedures training varies among surgeons. Discuss with your surgeon which treatment they provide.
Botulinum toxin injections
What is botulinum toxin?
Botulinum toxin is a chemical that can temporarily affect nerves responsible for the contraction of muscles. Botulinum toxin injections are commonly performed to reduce wrinkles on the face, especially around the forehead and eyes.
For patients with large and active masseter muscles, botulinum toxin injections can also be injected into the masseter muscles to help reduce the size of the muscles and contour the jaw line.
What to expect after treatment?
Botulinum toxin injections are relatively safe when performed by trained surgeons, and it is a relatively fast procedure. The full effects will occur about 3 days to 1 week after injections, and it can last between 3 to 6 months. Hence, repeated injections will be required if patients want to maintain the effects.
Possible side effects and risks include (not exhaustive):
- Swelling, pain, and bruising
- Headache
- Facial asymmetry (droopy eyelid, raised eyebrows, uneven smile)
- Allergic reactions
Do not rub or massage the injected areas for 24 hours after the injections to prevent the botulinum toxin from spreading to unintended areas.
Dermal fillers injections
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are special gel-like substances that can be injected into the face beneath the skin to increase or restore volume, smoothen lines and wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. It will have the effect of making the skin looks fuller and reducing the signs of ageing.
What to expect after treatment?
Dermal fillers injections are relatively safe when performed by trained surgeons, and it is a relatively fast procedure.
Possible side effects and risks include (not exhaustive):
- Swelling, redness, pain, and bruising
- Rashes, acne, lumps
- Itching
- Allergic reactions
- Hyperpigmentation
- Skins necrosis and blindness (very rare)
Ice packs can be applied to the injected areas to reduce swelling and increase comfort for the first few days (on and off 20mins each time). Avoid heat application to the injected areas, such as sunbathing, tanning, saunas, hot tubs, or hot wax. Massage any lumps with constant pressure to soften the lumps.