A multi- step method of making a mammalian subcutaneous medical implant for releasing self- contained drugs on a controlled basis over at least a 3 day period includes depositing at least portions of one or more individual layers of the implant by at least one computer controlled 3- D printer. The 3- D printing method may be accomplished via an array of 3- D nozzles that deposit materials (such as plastics , thermoplastics , coating materials , drug- containing matrix materials, non -drug containing matrix materials, bonding materials ,biodegradable materials and/or the like) in very small , precise portions. The materials may be deposited in liquid , powder sheet, or other forms. Non - implant forms may also be provided by the techniques disclosed herein.
