Cheek augmentation surgery is a cosmetic procedure that places implants near the malar bone, also known as the cheekbones, to enhance the definition of this area. Solid silicone facial implants are available in a variety of different profiles and sizes to customize your results to your facial proportions and aesthetic goals. Cheek augmentation surgery helps to create or restore balance to your facial proportions and can also provide youthful volume to the mid-face. Cheek augmentation without the use of implants can also be achieved with soft tissue fillers and/or fat grafting. These alternatives will be discussed during your consultation.
Who is a good candidate for cheek augmentation?
Candidates for cheek augmentation include patients who feel that genetically they have inadequate projection to the cheekbone area, or patients who are experiencing ptosis of facial fat. If you’ve noticed your midface (the area between your eyes and mouth) beginning to look sunken and drawn as you age, a cheek augmentation may be a good option for you. Over time, the supportive structures in our facial tissue begin to break down, and implants can strategically reposition soft tissue to help restore a more youthful version of yourself. In younger patients, cheek augmentation can achieve the goals of more defined bone structure and harmony between the proportions of your face. You should be in good overall health before pursuing cosmetic surgery.
What will my cheek augmentation surgery be like?
Cheek augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia or monitored sedation in our fully accredited in-house operating facility and takes approximately one hour. Typically, small incisions are made inside the mouth and “pockets” or spaces for the implants are created next to the bone. The implants are then placed in the pockets and the surrounding soft tissue is sutured closed. Following surgery, our attentive medical team will monitor your initial recovery in the calm, comfortable setting of our in-house recovery room.
How long is the recovery from a cheek augmentation?
Moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal after cheek augmentation surgery. Our nurses will see you in-clinic for postoperative care typically 5-10 days after surgery, and subsequently as needed to support your recovery journey. They will assist you with post operative care and assessment of the surgical site and will advise on long-term care and expectations. Sutures typically dissolve on their own and do not require removal. You must refrain from strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and any activities where your head is below your heart or that may result in rough contact in the area where the implants were placed for about 3-4 weeks after surgery.
As with any surgery, the healing process can vary from patient to patient and your final results will depend on many individual factors. It is important to be patient with your body and allow yourself time to rest and recuperate.
Your Questions Answered
We strive to ensure our patients are thoroughly informed and equipped with the resources they need to make the best decision for themselves. Your consultation will include a discussion of your goals, your health history, education on your procedure(s) of interest, and a detailed explanation of potential benefits, risks, and complications. Your surgeon will perform a full exam of the proposed surgical area. You will also have the opportunity to explore your potential results using our advanced VECTRA® 3D simulation technology. For more information, you can also review our guide to the surgical process from consultation to recovery.
Prior to booking, you should ensure you have a responsible adult available to care for and assist you after surgery. You must be accompanied for at least 48 hours following your procedure. We also recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s).
As with any procedure, post-operative complications after a cheek augmentation are rare but possible. These may include bleeding, infection, asymmetry or malposition of the implants, dissatisfaction with size selection, and altered sensation (numbness, tingling, and/or hypersensitivity). Our skilled surgical team prioritizes your safety and meticulously works to minimize these risks.
Patients seeking a non-surgical option may wish to consider dermal filler treatments to the cheek area to provide enhanced definition. These are injectable treatments that are maintained at regular intervals. Note that this option typically offers more subtle enhancements than what can be achieved with implants. Fat injections to the face are also a consideration, and can be discussed in detail at consultation.