It is hard to overstate the importance of cheekbones in the overall attractiveness of one’s face. Prominent cheekbones are a central part of the face that accentuate the eyes and make you appear more positive, joyful and friendly to others. Having weak cheekbones tends to make a person appear unhappy and tired. For these reasons, many people choose to undergo cheek augmentation using cheek implants.
Cheek augmentation with implants adds contour and body to cheeks lacking definition. Those who have a weak cheek structure, a flat or narrow face, or who have lost contours and volume around their cheeks because of the effects of aging, can benefit from this cosmetic improvement.
Cheek implants are a simple form of cheek surgery that provide a relatively low cost solution to enhancing one’s appearance.
| Procedure Type | Surgical; silicone implant placement. |
| Purpose | Define and add volume to the cheeks. |
| Satisfaction Rate | < 95% |
| Anesthesia | Local. General anesthesia rare. |
| Areas Treated | Cheeks. |
| Results Seen In | Initial results immediate; final results in 3-6 weeks. |
| Recovery Time | ~ 1 week. |
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What are Cheek Implants?
Cheekbone implants have actually been around for the last 60 years, offering a proven track record of safety and effective cosmetic enhancement. The implants are made from synthetic materials ranging from flexible to fairly rigid. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, which can be custom-fitted to an individual’s unique facial structure.
Some types of cheek implants, such as silicone, do not completely integrate with soft tissues, allowing them to be easily removed at a later time if desired. Other types of cheek implants, like hydroxyapatite, form a bond with underlying bone tissue, becoming one with the cheek structure.
Candidacy
Cheek augmentation with implants is a very individualized procedure that can enhance the lives of those unhappy with the appearance of their cheeks. You may make a good candidate for cheek implants if you:
- Are at a stable weight and in good overall health
- Do not smoke tobacco products
- Are unhappy with the appearance of your cheeks
- Have cheeks that are thin, flat, or sagging due to aging, accidents, or congenital defects
To determine if cheek augmentation with cheek implants is right for you, you should take part in a consultation with the plastic surgeon of your choice. This is a great opportunity for you to ask any questions and share any concerns that you may have about this cosmetic procedure. It may help to first write down all of your questions so that you don’t forget anything during this important meeting.
Cost
When you are making your decision whether or not to undergo cheek augmentation with implants, price is something that you will likely be considering. The exact cost of cheek augmentation varies among surgeons, and the average cost differs between geographic regions.
Depending upon the individual surgeon that you will be using, and medical fees involved, a cheek implant procedure can range anywhere from $2,400 to $5,000.
Procedure
Your cheek implant procedure will be performed under general anesthesia so that you are completely comfortable and safe throughout the entire process. After you are asleep, your plastic surgeon will form small incisions, either within natural eyelid creases or hidden within your mouth. They will insert your new cheek implants through these openings.
Depending upon what you have agreed upon during your consultation, your cheek implants may be either flexible or rigid. Your surgeon will anchor the devices using tiny screws to attach them to your cheekbones.
Many people choose to combine their cheek augmentation with a complementary procedure, like a facelift procedure or eyelid surgery. If this is the case with you, your surgeon may be able to use the very same incisions for both procedures.
Recovery Timeline
After you are driven home, you will spend most of your time resting up and recovering. Your expected recovery timeline should proceed as follows:
First 48 Hours
You may be provided with a prescription for antibiotics and painkillers. Your plastic surgeon may recommend that you avoid moving your mouth or talking too much. They may also advise you to stick to a liquid diet for the first 48 hours after your surgery.
First Week
After cheek implant surgery, expect your speech and smile to be somewhat abnormal for up to two weeks. You can also expect some significant swelling, which can be relieved by placing ice packs over the affected area.
Most patients need about one week away from work to recover. Be sure to elevate your head and neck at all times for the first few days so that your cheek implants do not shift out of place. Elevating your head and neck also help to minimize swelling.
