Face Lift

Cheek Augmentation: Frequently Asked Questions

Considering cheek augmentation with implants? If so, you probably have lots of questions, and you may have some concerns. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about cheek augmentation, along with their answers:

  1. What is cheek augmentation surgery?
  2. What does a typical cheek augmentation consultation entail?
  3. How is cheek augmentation with implants performed?
  4. What should I expect postoperatively?
  5. When will the sutures be taken out?
  6. Will there be scarring?
  7. Is there a lot of swelling involved with cheek implants?
  8. What is the downtime associated with cheek augmentation?
  9. When will I be able to see the results?
  10. What are the risks of cheek augmentation?
  11. How long does cheek augmentation last?

 

1. 1. What is cheek augmentation surgery?

Cheek (malar) augmentation surgery is used to enhance the shape and size of your cheekbones in particular and your face overall. As we age, our face tends to lose some of its fullness, making it appear to sag. Cheek augmentation surgery can restore fullness for a more youthful appearance.

There are several available options for cheek augmentation including a combination of a mid-face lift and injections of soft tissue injectable fillers or fat fillers. For a permanent fix, malar augmentation using implants made of solid silicone, Gortex or Alloderm may be the way to go.

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2. What does a typical cheek augmentation consultation entail?

A consultation is an opportunity to learn about the cheek augmentation procedure and the surgeon you are considering to perform it. Your surgeon will ask you about what you hope to achieve with cheek augmentation, and then he or she will give a professional opinion of what can be achieved realistically taking into account many variables, including your facial dimensions and shape. He or she will also help you decide the best option for cheek augmentation (be it injections or implants), the risk involved and how much the procedure will cost.

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3. How is cheek augmentation with implants performed?

Cheek augmentation with implants takes from one to one-and-a-half hours to perform. Incisions will be placed as inconspicuously as possible within the mouth or lower eyelid area. A pocket is crafted over the cheekbone and the implant is inserted and affixed to bone or soft tissue. The surgeon then closes the incisions with sutures.

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4. What should I expect postoperatively?

Extensive pain is not typical with malar augmentation with implants; however, if you have a low threshold for pain, ask your surgeon to prescribe an analgesic in advance. Swelling and bruising are typical. What's more, you may feel a degree of numbness that will normally disappear within one to three months.

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5. When will the sutures be taken out?

If there are sutures, they will be removed in approximately five to 10 days.

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6. Will there be scarring?

Yes, there will be scarring; how visible it is depends on the type and location of incision your surgeon uses.

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7. Is there a lot of swelling involved with cheek implants?

Considerable swelling may occur due to tissue trauma, especially if screws are used to affix the implant to the cheekbone. Your cheeks will look over-augmented for a while, and the definition you are seeking may not be apparent for a few months.

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8. What is the downtime associated with cheek augmentation?

You can expect to resume regular activities in about one to two weeks. Major social functions should be postponed for at least four weeks to be sure that all the swelling and bruising has subsided.

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9. When will I be able to see the results?

The results are immediate, although you may think that the implants are far too large at first due to the swelling. It may take a few months for more refined results to emerge.

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10. What are the risks of cheek augmentation?

There is a chance of infection, hematoma (blood pooling), seroma, numbness from nerve damage, asymmetry and hyperpigmentation (permanent discolorations) caused by the bruising. There is the risk that the implant will shift, requiring additional surgery to reposition it. Also, there is a chance you won't like the final results, in which case you may need to undergo a revision surgery or removal of the implant.

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11. How long does cheek augmentation last?

Standard cheek implants were designed to last your lifetime. If you go the filler route, the augmentation will last several months to a year.

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