The purpose of cheek augmentation is to add volume or lift your cheeks. Cheek augmentation is a broad spectrum that can include:
If you choose to undergo a more invasive procedure like cheek implants, you should speak with a qualified medical professional who can answer any of your questions and address underlying concerns.
Within the context of cheek implants, there are three types that you can consider:
Speaking with your healthcare provider is the best way to determine your ideal path forward.
There are many medical and/or cosmetic reasons why people undergo cheek augmentation. If you opt to get a cheek implant, it may be to:
A qualified doctor will want to speak with you at length about your cheek augmentation goals. A clear and honest conversation will help you to manage your expectations and ensure that you’re undergoing a procedure with your mental health taken into account.
Cheek implants may be more common with women, but any gender can undergo any form of cheek augmentation. Your plastic surgeon will want to discuss your medical history and your main goals. Strong candidates for cheek augmentation are those who:
There are also people who are not ideal candidates for cheek augmentation or cheek implants. Getting an implant may be discouraged if you:
Even if now is not the right time for you to undergo cheek augmentation, it may not stay that way. Speaking with your doctor about making certain lifestyle adjustments is a good place to start if a future cheek augmentation is important to you.
Before any type of cheek augmentation surgery, you will need to meet with your plastic surgeon. The doctor will want to discuss your goals and medical history. Next, they may take photographs of your cheeks to have a before-and-after reference. They will also answer your questions and discuss possible side effects with you.
To prepare for the day of your surgery, you may need to:
If you need resources to help with quitting smoking, your surgeon can provide those for you.
If you choose cheek implants for your cheek augmentation surgery, you will receive general anesthesia that puts you under for the entire procedure. The surgery will take about an hour, and you can expect the surgeon to:
Cheek augmentation procedures are generally outpatient, which means you will return home on the same day. Your surgeon will place you in a recovery area for a few hours before discharging you. Soreness or tightness is normal in your cheeks after the procedure.
Following the doctor’s specific incision care instructions may involve:
Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment with you to monitor your healing process. It may take several weeks to a month for redness and swelling to disappear. The results of cheek implants will be easier to see once your swelling fades.
You can typically return to work and your usual daily activities within a week of having cheek implant surgery. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions if they suggest waiting several weeks before you perform strenuous activities, like intense exercising or lifting heavy items.
The benefits of cheek augmentation depend on your specific goals and overall desired outcome. Generally speaking, cheek implants as a form of cheek augmentation surgery can offer:
As with any cosmetic procedure, there can be associated surgical risks. Plastic surgeons who possess extensive experience can better prevent patients from experiencing:
Scarring is generally minimal for a more invasive cheek augmentation procedure since the cut is made inside of the mouth.
Cheek augmentation can be permanent, but surgery is reversible for cheek implants. You can speak to a surgeon about removing implants at any time. Reversing facial fillers is possible as well, but the method depends on the type of filler that was previously used. There are different ways of dissolving hyaluronic acid-based fillers, but it is worth noting that dissolving fillers can be uncomfortable or even painful.
Getting cheek implants versus cheek fillers may come down to preference or practical safety. People with certain health conditions, like blood disorders, may prefer fillers over the surgical route. Keep in mind that dermal fillers are temporary and based on:
Cheek fillers generally last anywhere from six months to several years, whereas implants are a more permanent form of cheek augmentation.
Do not wait to call your doctor if you experience:
After your cheek augmentation, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Side effects can feel scary, but contacting your doctor or an immediate medical professional is the best way to address them while ideally avoiding longer-lasting complications.