Cheek augmentation creates a contoured and youthful appearance by adding volume to the cheeks. Also used as a reconstructive procedure, it can correct asymmetrical faces caused by cancer or a facial fracture. Surgeons often combine it with other facial procedures. These can include chin augmentation and a brow or a facelift.
There are surgical and non-surgical options for cheek augmentation.
Implants and fat transfer are more invasive techniques. Non-surgical approaches include the use of injectable dermal fillers.
Cheek implants are a permanent option. This procedure is usually performed with a solid silicone, customized to fit each patient's cheek. There are various techniques of implant placement, and they differ according to the result the patient is seeking. Malar implants are placed beneath the eye, at the very top of the cheekbone. This area is where the cheeks lose volume due to natural aging, creating a sunken appearance. Submalar implants are inserted in the middle of the cheek. This technique is most popular among patients in their 20s and 30s looking for sharper contours. Professionals can also combine these two types to create a very voluminous look. Surgeons make incisions during the implant procedure either inside the mouth, at the hairline or under the eyelid. After placing the implant, they suture the site and cover it with surgical dressing. Patients need to wear a compression garment to ease swelling and add support for the cheek. Patients with in-mouth incisions will have to opt for a liquid diet and rinse their mouth regularly to avoid infections. Healing will take 4-6 weeks and patients should minimize strenuous activities until then.
During fat transfer, surgeons extract excess fat from other parts of the body using liposuction. This fat is then processed and injected back into the cheeks. During this treatment, surgeons create incisions at the site where fat is being harvested. They also make small incisions in the cheek, where the fat will be injected. Results of fat transfer can be unpredictable as some fat cells may not survive over time.
Dermal fillers are generally Hyaluronic Acid-based solutions. This type of cheek enhancement only requires topical numbing before being performed. In this case, results are temporary and only last a few months. This treatment can be done in the clinic. Cheek implants and fat transfer are usually performed in hospitals or surgical centers under local or general anesthetic.
