Cheek Augmentation

This document offers an overview of cheek augmentation surgery: headings and essential details only, without links or images.

What Is Cheek Augmentation?

• The goal is to add volume or lift to the cheeks.
• Some people lose cheek volume or experience sagging with age; others have naturally thin or flat cheeks.
• Common surgical options: fat transfer (using one’s own fat) or cheek implants.
• Nonsurgical options (not covered here) include injectable fillers.

Candidates

• Individuals bothered by flat cheeks, volume loss, or sagging cheeks.
• Those in good general health.
• People with realistic expectations about results and maintenance.

Cost

• Costs vary based on technique chosen (implant vs fat transfer), surgeon experience, and location.
• Additional costs may include anesthesia, facility fees, and follow-up care.

Consultation

• Discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns about cheek volume or contour.
• Review medical history, any prior facial surgeries, and overall skin condition.
• Surgeon evaluates facial anatomy, available fat (if using fat transfer), and implant suitability.
• Review risks, recovery, and expected duration of results.

Questions to Ask

• Which method is best for me—fat grafting or implants?
• Where will incisions be placed?
• What is the expected recovery timeline and aftercare?
• What are the risks, complications, and possible revisions?
• How permanent are the results, especially for fat transfer?

Procedure Steps

Anesthesia

• Anesthesia may be local, IV sedation, or general depending on procedure complexity.

Incision & Technique

• Fat transfer: small incisions to harvest fat, small cheek incisions for placement.
• Implants: incisions either inside mouth or under lower eyelid, depending on surgeon’s preference.

Closure

• Incisions closed with sutures, adhesives, or tapes as appropriate.

Seeing Results

• Implants provide permanent structure; fat graft results may last several years but may be partially reabsorbed.
• Full outcome visible after swelling subsides.

Recovery

• Expect swelling, possibly some bruising; recovery protocols include limited activity.
• Follow surgeon’s instructions about care, diet, and movement.
• Follow-ups required to monitor healing and address any issues.

Risks and Safety

• Bleeding, infection, or poor wound healing.
• Potential for asymmetry or uneven results.
• Changes in skin sensation or temporary numbness.
• Possible need for revision if results are not satisfactory or if fat resorption is significant.

Results

• Fuller cheek appearance, improved contour and possibly a lifted look.
• Longevity depends on technique; implants often more stable long-term.
• Maintenance may be needed, especially if using fat transfer.