Facial trauma or a disease like oral cancer can dramatically alter your appearance. It can also affect your speech, jaw movement, and other functions. Fortunately, Connecticut maxillofacial prosthodontist Dr. Gary Horblitt offers craniofacial implants to replace damaged or missing bone structure. Dr. Horblitt has specialized training in craniofacial implants, and he has years of experience in the field of prosthodontics. Read on to learn more about this treatment and to find out if it is right for you. Then contact us to schedule your consultation.
What are craniofacial implants?
Craniofacial implants are designed to repair or replace bones in the jaw, cheeks, or other areas of the face. Small implant posts, typically made of biocompatible titanium, hold a larger structure in place. The skin and muscles are carefully repositioned over the implants for a lifelike appearance. There are several types of craniofacial implants. Some may replace the orbital bone, which surrounds the eye. Others can repair damage to the cheekbones and midface, while still others can help to rebuild the nose and ears.
Who is a candidate for craniofacial implants?
Craniofacial implants may be appropriate if you are suffering from any of the following:
- Facial trauma following a car accident or sports injury
- A congenital defect
- Severe burns
- Bone damage due to cancer or another disease
Thanks to meticulous surgical techniques and the minute size of the posts, even patients with severely compromised bone structure may be able to receive craniofacial implants. A bone graft can also provide additional support.
What happens when you receive an implant?
Your care will begin with a thorough evaluation and treatment planning using the latest imaging technology. Dr. Horblitt will work with other members of your medical team to ensure your complete health and safety during treatment. During the surgery itself you will receive general anesthesia. Through tiny incisions, Dr. Horblitt will insert the titanium posts into your bone. He will carefully choose the exact position of these posts to ensure maximum stability, as well as minimal scarring and impact to healthy bone tissue. Over a period of several months, the posts will fuse with the bone during a process known as osseointegration. Dr. Horblitt will provide bandages and instructions to help the healing process and keep the implants in place.
How successful are craniofacial implants?
Craniofacial implants are very successful. One study, published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, looked at the success rate of 56 patients who received 150 craniofacial implants. Over two years, the success rate for complex midfacial implants and orbital implants was 100%. The success rate for auricular implants was 94.1%, and the success rate for nasal implants was 90.9%. Of course, as with all surgeries, there is some risk of complications. The most common concerns are skin complications near the incision. Nonetheless, good postoperative care can minimize these risks.
Contact a Connecticut Maxillofacial Prosthodontist Today
Maxillofacial implants can have dramatic effects on your appearance, self-esteem, and quality of life. That is why it is so important to choose a qualified and highly respected doctor. Contact our office online to learn more about Dr. Horblitt’s advanced training and to schedule your consultation. You can also call us at (203) 335-1011. Dr. Horblitt is proud to serve patients in Fairfield, Trumbull, Bridgeport, Stratford, Westport, Milford, and the surrounding communities.
