Cheek implants are a way to improve facial balance and definition. Facial implants reduce signs of aging around the eyes and create a more proportioned mid-face. By adding projection to the cheek area, the face looks less heavy and more fit and toned.
When volume and soft tissue are lost around the cheeks, the entire face can look tired and gaunt. Enhancing the cheeks through cosmetic surgery results in a strong, youthful look and rejuvenates the entire face. Although some patients achieve the facial contour that they want with a cheek implant alone, it is common to combine implants with cosmetic surgery including jaw or chin implants. If you are of age, consider a complete face rejuvenation procedure, a facelift.
In addition to implants, which are permanent, there are also non-surgical methods of adding volume and contour to the cheeks. Dermal fillers like Perlane, Restylane, Sculptra, Juvederm, and Radiesse help define, contour, and plump the cheeks while eliminating lines, wrinkles and creases to create a more youthful look. The results of these dermal fillers are temporary but long-lasting and there is little to no downtime.
Cheek implant surgery is performed by Dr. Schwarcz, a cosmetic plastic surgeon in New York, following a thorough consultation to determine the optimal implant placement. The incision is normally made on the inside of the mouth or under the eye. In rare cases, small incisions may be made in the cheekbone itself. Once the implant is properly situated, the area is sutured. Over time, the implant meshes with the natural bone and becomes structurally sound.
Some temporary numbness, bruising, and swelling can result and is considered normal following the procedure. Any post-operative discomfort is typically well-managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. Most patients fully recover within a week to 10 days. A return visit to the doctor may be required to remove the external sutures. Any sutures inside the mouth will eventually dissolve on their own.
