cheek augmentation
Cheek enhancement refers to procedures or treatments that are designed to enhance the appearance of the cheeks. It aims to add volume, improve contour, and create a more defined and youthful cheek structure.
Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is intended to emphasize the cheeks on a person’s face. To augment the cheeks, a plastic surgeon may place a solid implant over the cheekbone.
The goal of cheek augmentation is to add volume or lift to the cheeks. Some people are bothered by their cheeks losing volume, or even sagging, with age. Others never develop the desired volume in their cheeks and are bothered by cheeks that may be considered flat or thin.
Candidates for Cheek Augmentation
People who can benefit from cheek augmentation include:
- Patients experiencing premature aging and loss of volume due to fat loss in the mid-face
- Older patients who wish to restore fullness and eliminate sagging in the cheeks due to the aging process
- People who wish to have more volume in their cheeks or more pronounced cheekbones
Options for Cheek Augmentation are:
Injectable fillers: Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane, are commonly used to add volume and improve the contour of the cheeks. These fillers are injected into the cheeks to achieve the desired fullness and lift.
Fat transfer: In this procedure, fat is harvested from another part of your body and injected into the cheeks to add volume and improve contour. It provides a more natural and long-lasting result, as the body’s own fat is used.
Cheek implants: Cheek implants are solid materials made of silicone or other biocompatible materials that are surgically inserted to enhance cheek volume and definition. This is a more permanent option compared to fillers or fat transfer.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration of a cheek enhancement procedure depends on the specific technique used and the individual case. Injectable filler treatments typically take around 15-30 minutes, while fat transfer or surgical procedures may take longer, ranging from one to two hours.
What to Expect From Cheek Augmentation
Cheek augmentation surgery with fat injection is an outpatient procedure, and patients can go home the same day. In the first step, our surgeons discuss anesthesia options with patients to provide comfort during the procedure. Anesthesia options include:
- Local anesthesia
- General anesthesia
- Sedation
For a fat transfer procedure, the surgeon makes tiny incisions to harvest fat either from the abdomen or flank and back areas and transfer it to the cheeks. Not all the fat will survive and repeat injection maybe necessary, but the amount that survives will stay forever as the injected fat becomes integrated in the bodies’ own tissue.
During their recovery, patients can expect to:
- Receive medication to relieve pain and/or reduce the risk of infection for a few days after the procedure
- Have some swelling and mild bruising that worsens for the first two to three days; most swelling goes away in about two weeks, but some minor swelling can last several weeks.
- Return to work and most activities within a week
- Resume more strenuous activities after a few weeks
Filler injections include an outpatient office visit and may need to be repeated more than once. Unlike a fat injection, the results are more reliable, but long-term maintenance with repeat injections after one year may be necessary.
cheek augmentation – Frequently Asked Question
Cheek enhancement procedures are usually well-tolerated. For injectable fillers, a topical numbing cream or local anesthesia may be applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Surgical procedures may require local anesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort.
The duration of results depends on the type of cheek enhancement procedure. Injectable fillers generally provide temporary results that can last between six months to a year, depending on the specific filler used and individual factors. Fat transfer can provide longer-lasting results as the fat cells integrate with the cheeks, typically lasting several years. Cheek implants are a more permanent option. However, it’s important to note that individual results may vary.
Cheek enhancement procedures, whether non-surgical or surgical, carry potential risks and side effects. Common side effects may include temporary swelling, bruising, redness, or tenderness at the treatment site. In rare cases, there may be infection, allergic reactions, or asymmetry. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and complications with your plastic surgeon before undergoing any procedure.
Yes, cheek enhancement procedures can be customized to achieve natural-looking results. A skilled plastic surgeon will consider your facial features, existing cheek structure, and desired outcome to create a treatment plan that enhances your cheeks while maintaining balance and harmony with the rest of your face.
Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure and individual healing. Non-surgical cheek enhancement with injectable fillers typically allows for immediate return to normal activities. Surgical procedures may involve a longer recovery period, and your plastic surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions to guide your recovery.