Prominent cheeks are considered cosmetically pleasing, but in some people the cheekbone is indistinct, resulting in a flattened appearance of the face. Cheek augmentation is performed to emphasize the cheekbones. Flattened faces can be seen in some ethnic groups, with congenital differences, and after injuries to the face.  It is also evident in many normally developed people. Improving the prominence of the cheekbones in the older age group has the result of tightening the facial skin and soft tissues as well.

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. Injections with the patients’ own fat or a soft tissue filler, like Restylane, are also popular.

 

What kind of anesthesia will have?

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia for optimal comfort. This means you will be asleep for the entire procedure. Typically, the procedure is performed as outpatient surgery, but depending on your specific combination of procedures planned, you may need to stay overnight.

 

Where will incisions be?

The procedure is usually performed through an incision in the mouth, placed just above the gum line. A pocket is created above the bony surface of the cheek to insert the implant.  The implant is positioned and stabilized using a screw that provides stability to the implant during the healing phase. The screw is left in place permanently. The size of the implant and the amount of augmentation is decided ahead of time during consultation with Dr. Kirby. This will help to provide a natural balance and proportion to your face.

 

How long is the surgery?

This procedure usually takes one hour but will depend on your specific combination of procedures planned. Cheek augmentation surgery is usually performed as an outpatient. You will be able to return home on the same day, several hours after your procedure .

 

What are the risks?

Incisions are located inside the mouth and should heal without problems. These incisions should not be visible. The scars are rarely problematic. Nevertheless, you should be aware that all scars are permanent and their height, width and final color are unpredictable. As with any surgical procedure, small sensory nerves to the skin surface may be cut when the incision is made or when skin is undermined.  Portions of your face will feel numb or have less than full feeling. The sensibility in these areas gradually returns, usually within 2 to 3 months as the nerve endings spontaneously heal. During the healing process the skin of the face may become hypersensitive for a period of time. Some diminished sensibility may last indefinitely. Bleeding is unusual, but can occur after cheek augmentation. It occurs in about 1 to 2% of patients and is more common in men. Occasionally a minor deformity may persist following surgery. No one’s face is perfectly symmetrical; some post-operative asymmetry may be a result of asymmetry already present. A second procedure may be necessary to resolve the problem. Swelling  is a normal consequence of surgery and is best treated simply by elevating the head of the bed. Injury to the nerve that gives feeling to the cheek, upper lip and side of the nose occurs in less than 1% of cases. When it does occur, it results in partial loss of feeling to that side of the face. Some numbness after surgery is normal but if the nerve is injured, then there could be permanent loss of feeling. Infection is also rare; prevention is the key and antibiotics will be provided after surgery.

 

How long do cheek implants last?

A screw fixated implant can last a lifetime, but be removed in 10 minutes or changed in size in about 25 minutes, making silicone facial implants a mainstay of cosmetic facial surgery. Cheek implants are a simple, effective, customizable, permanent and reversible procedure.

 

How long does swelling last after cheek implants?

There will be a moderate amount of swelling around the cheek area and possibly under the eyes. This peaks at 48 to 72 hours after surgery and then starts to subside. Crushed ice applied to the cheeks will help during this time. Most of the visible swelling will disappear by about 2 weeks.

 

Can you feel cheek implants?

Cheek Implants. Cheek implants, also sometimes called cheek augmentation, are inserted to enhance cheekbones or to make the cheeks fuller. Like other types of plastic surgery procedures, cheek augmentation can make your face appear more youthful or balance your facial features, making you feel more attractive.

 

What does cheek augmentation do?

Cheek augmentation can add shape and volume to your cheeks, enhancing your overall facial appearance. … Cheek augmentation surgery restores fullness for a more youthful appearance. The Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists can enhance the cheeks using dermal fillers or implants.

 

 

https://www.kirbyplasticsurgery.com/procedures/face/cheek-augment
https://www.lovethatface.com/2016/07/06/some-doctors-say-cheek-implants-dont-work-2/
https://www.atlplasticsurgeon.com/common-questions-cheek-augmentation/