Cheek augmentation surgery for fuller cheeks

Knowing about cheek augmentation surgery

Cheek augmentation surgery is also called cheek implant surgery can alter the cheek’s shape by the increase of projection and volume of the cheek. The implant is most generally made of either Medpor like porous biocompatible material or solid silicone which gives the best desired effect.

Benefitting from cheek augmentation surgery


People whose cheeks have begun to sag due to low volume because of weight loss, illness or age and people having natural flat cheeks and desiring more definition and projection in the cheek region. The variation in the placement, shape and size of the implants in the cheeks the facial symmetry of the cheek can be improved.

In fact the increase of volume in the middle of the face through cheek implants provides lift to the lower as well as the mid face.

Best candidates of cheek augmentation surgery

Non smokers are considered as the best candidates to perform cheek augmentation surgery on as in most cases they remain in good health and have a normally working immune system. Realistic expectations and a positive outlook about the entire procedure are very important in a patient.

Pre-operative things to consider in case of cheek augmentation surgery

To confirm the status of your health the surgeon will order lab tests before the operation. There may also arise the necessity that certain medications are adjusted, ceased or taken during a week or two ahead of the surgery.

This may include avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs, herbal supplements and aspirin. In case you are a smoker, the doctor may ask you stop smoking.

The surgeon will be able to determine the shape and size best suitable for your implant among the many available choices. He will also discuss about the placement of the incision with you.

Downtime and recovery after cheek augmentation surgery

Non-strenuous activities can be resumed by most patients immediately 24 hours after the surgery but driving should be avoided while the patient is on pain medication. Laborious exercises or work should not be done until at least the passage of 2-3 weeks.

The cheek should not be subjected to excessive motion or force around this time like playing contact sports. However, the guidelines may differ widely according to the personal health of the patient, techniques involved and a number of other factors around the surgery.

During the recovery period the patient may feel some tightness around the cheek region and a few facial movements may become impaired or restricted but on a temporary basis. In case of development of severe pain, the doctor should be informed.

Complications and risks involving cheek augmentation surgery

The following may be the complications involved in the surgery:

* hematoma or  excessive bleeding
* skin discoloration or unfavorable scarring
* wound separation or poor wound healing
* fat or skin necrosis
* eyelid retraction which can cause eye dryness
* anesthesia risks
* blood clots
* deep vein thrombosis
* fluid accumulation or persistent edema
* pulmonary and cardiac complications
* permanent or temporary change or even loss of sensation in the skin
* persistent pain
* shift of the position of the implant, causing pressure on adjacent nerves or facial structures
* unsatisfactory results which may require revisional surgery
* formation of excessive scar tissue, skin contour irregularities and/or firmness about the implant

Cost of cheek augmentation

The average cost of this surgery may vary around $3,000-$7,000. The intricacy of the process, the reputation and qualification and the geographical area decide the cost of the surgery.

Other complementary procedures

Rhinoplasty, liposuction, brow lift, laser skin resurfacing, chin augmentation, eye lift and jaw implants are some of the surgeries that may be done along with this to highlight the results of the patients.


Some considerations before the surgery

Although the implants may be removed later on, the cheek implants may be able to alter the facial anatomy permanently.

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