The cheek augmentation procedure is used to restore volume to cheeks that may have lost it over time. Patients may feel this makes them look much older than they are. Specially designed cheek implants restore volume and reshape facial contours to give a more oval or heart shape that is more aesthetically pleasing. Cheek augmentation is performed to enhance the balance of the face, particularly in relation to the forehead, nose, and chin. Cheek implants can enhance self-confidence, particularly in patients whose cheeks appear flat in comparison to other facial features.
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The normal cheek has a prominence just below the level of the lower eyelids and gives an oval-shaped curve to the face. A lack of volume or flattening can give the face a long, thin appearance, accentuating an aged appearance. The flat cheek may arise as a genetic feature, result from trauma to the cheek, or be a consequence of ageing. The aesthetics of the face requires that each part be in harmony with the others. Therefore, a flattened cheek may detract from the aesthetic appeal of the eyes, nose, or mouth. The resulting facial imbalance can have a profound impact on the patient’s psychological well-being, leading to low self-esteem. Cheek augmentation surgery to enhance (augment) the cheek aims to restore balance and provide a natural aesthetic appearance.
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There are numerous benefits to undergoing cheek augmentation, including the following:
- Enhances the periorbital region of the cheeks
- Helps achieve fuller cheeks for a youthful and attractive appearance
- Defined facial structure overall
- Aesthetically, enhancement is undetectable
- Helps boost self-esteem and self-confidence
Who can have cheek augmentation?
If you want to improve your face to achieve an aesthetically pleasing and youthful appearance, then cheek augmentation surgery may be right for you. Cheek augmentation can correct deformities resulting from an injury that occurred during birth or developed in adulthood. You should be realistic about what can be achieved through cheek augmentation surgery and understand the side effects and potential complications associated with the procedure.
How is cheek augmentation performed?
At the Centre for Surgery, cheek augmentation is performed under twilight anaesthesia, which means that pain and discomfort are almost minimal or none.
The procedure typically takes approximately an hour to complete.
Cheek augmentation with implants is commonly performed in conjunction with other facial procedures, such as facelifts, browlifts, chin implants, and neck lifts.
No extensive pain is associated with the procedure. However, you may experience some numbness for one to two months following your cheek augmentation, which will disappear over time. You can also expect some swelling and bruising for the first few days, and it is absolutely normal.
You will need to wear a support garment for cheek augmentation with implants to prevent the implants from shifting and allow them to settle into the desired position. It is possible to insert implants without scarring; however, this also depends on the incision your surgeon makes, so it is essential to address this during your consultation.
The results are immediate, but the implants will look quite large due to the swelling you will experience during the recovery period. Most people are aware of their final results about seven months after the initial surgery.
What will the recovery be like?
You can expect swelling and bruising for the first few days, and your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help alleviate the discomfort. Most patients return to work within a week; however, resuming extensive physical activity, such as gym sessions, should be delayed until at least six weeks after the surgery.
In most cheek augmentation surgery procedures, a facial support garment is fitted at the end of surgery to help control bruising and swelling, and reduce postoperative movement. This should be worn day and night for the first week.
As this is a surgical procedure, there are rare risks associated with cheek augmentation. Bruising can occur and may take two weeks to resolve, while major bleeding is rare. Infection is infrequent (occurring in less than 0.5% of cases) and will typically require a course of appropriate antibiotics. Displacement of the implants can occur in the early postoperative course. This is prevented by avoiding pressure on the cheeks – sleeping, massaging the face or excessive movement. Some altered sensation around the cheeks is expected and will commonly return to normal between 6 and 12 weeks after surgery.
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