Temporal hollowing is commonly treated by injectable fillers and fat injections. While both of these injection methods have their merits, the assured permanent temporal augmentation method is with the use of an implant. Temporal implants are newer forms of facial implants that are specifically designed to replicate the soft feel of muscle rather than that of bone. It is the only facial implant that is designed to augment a soft tissue area.
Temporal hollowing is the result of fat atrophy, muscle wasting/thinning or a combination of both. In modest to moderate amounts standard temporal implants do well in improving hollowing. They cover the lower half of the temporal region from the zygomatic arch upward to the level of lateral brows.
In more severe forms of temporal hollowing the concavity extends up to the anterior temporal line at the side of the forehead. This encompasses the entire anterior temporal zone for which the standard implant is deficient in height. (vertical length) As a result an extended temporal implant has been designed that can augment the entire extent of temporal hollowing should it go all the way up to the forehead.
The extended temporal implant is placed through the same incision as the standard style. The length of the incision does not need to be extended to properly place it. Once the pocket is made the implant is inserted in a horizontal orientation and then turned 90 degrees for proper placement.
The extended temporal implant offers enhanced improvement for those so afflicted with more severe facial hollowing. Thin females, patients with medication-induced facial lipoatrophy, and extreme weight loss patients are the most common aesthetic indications for use of the extended temporal implant.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana