Cheek Augmentation

Cheek augmentation, also known as malar or cheek enhancement, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at enhancing the shape, size, and definition of the cheeks. Few people have their cheeks sagging or losing volume due to age, sun exposure, or genetics. This procedure can create more symmetrical and balanced facial features, add volume to the cheeks, or enhance the cheekbones. There are several cheek augmentation methods, including dermal fillers, fat transfer, and cheek implants. The procedure is typically done under local or general anesthesia, and recovery time varies depending on the method used.

What is Cheek Augmentation?
Types of Cheek Augmentation
Why Cheek Augmentation?
What Conditions Are Cheek Augmentation a Solution to?
Steps to getting your procedure
Cost of Cheek Augmentation
Why Yes Doctor for Cheek Augmentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctors that perform Cheek Augmentation procedures
Yes Doctor’s Plastic Surgery Procedure Cheek Augmentation

What is Cheek Augmentation?

Cheek augmentation, also known as malar or cheek enhancement, is a cosmetic procedure done to enhance the shape, size, and definition of the cheeks. This procedure can create more symmetrical and balanced facial features, add volume to the cheeks, or enhance the cheekbones. 

The following are the commonly performed cheek augmentation procedures: 

Dermal fillers 

Dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid fillers, can be injected into the cheeks to add volume and definition. These fillers are made of a natural substance, called Hyaluronic Acid (HA), already present in the body. They are designed to be long-lasting but not permanent. They are injected into the cheeks using a fine needle, which takes about 30 minutes to complete. 

Fat transfer 

Fat transfer, also known as a fat injection or fat grafting, involves removing fat from one area of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, using liposuction. The fat is then purified and re-injected into the cheeks to add volume. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and takes several hours. This procedure is permanent, but some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body and require a touch-up. 

Cheek implants 

Cheek implants, also known as malar or submalar implants, are made of materials such as silicone or Gore-Tex and are designed to be long-lasting and permanent. They are inserted through small incisions in the cheeks and positioned to enhance the cheekbones. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and takes about 1 hour. 

Procedure steps

A cheek augmentation procedure involves the following steps:

Anesthesia

The procedure is typically done under local or general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the method used and your preference.

Procedure

Dermal filler

A fine needle is used to inject the filler into the cheeks. The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to complete.

Fat transfer

Fat is removed from one area of the body using liposuction and purified. The purified fat is then re-injected into the cheeks to add volume. The procedure takes several hours.

Cheek implant

Small incisions are made in the cheeks, and the implant is inserted and positioned to enhance the cheekbones. The procedure takes about 1 hour.

Post-procedural care

After the procedure, you will be given instructions on how to care for yourself and manage any discomfort or side effects. You will be given pain medication and antibiotics. You may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few days after the procedure. However, patients can manage these side effects with medication.

Overall, cheek augmentation can be a great option for those looking to enhance their facial features and achieve a more youthful and balanced appearance. 

Types of Cheek Augmentation

  • Which Cheek Augmentation is Right for You?

    Choosing the right type of cheek augmentation will depend on your concerns about your cheeks.

    The best cheek augmentation method for you usually depends on your individual goals, medical history, and overall health. Factors such as age, skin type, and overall health will also be considered when determining the best course of treatment. Additionally, your surgeon will consider your aesthetic goals and ensure that you are a good candidate for the procedure.

  • Malar

    Malar cheek augmentation is typically performed through injectable fillers or implants. Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based products, are injected into the cheeks to add volume and lift them. Implants, such as silicone or Gore-Tex, are placed through small incisions in the cheeks to add volume. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete. Recovery time varies depending on the technique used, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days.

  • Submalar

    Submalar cheek augmentation is a procedure that adds volume to the submalar region of the cheeks, which is located just below the cheekbones. This area is responsible for giving the face a youthful, rounded appearance. There are several submalar cheek augmentation methods, including injectable fillers, implants, and autologous fat transfer. Injectable fillers are a non-surgical option and can add volume and lift to the cheeks. Implants, such as silicone or Gore-Tex, are a more permanent option for cheek augmentation. Autologous fat transfer uses the patient's own fat to add volume to the cheeks. The method of submalar cheek augmentation will depend on the patient's desired outcome and personal preferences. It is essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon who can evaluate your facial structure and recommend the best method for your needs.

  • Combined

    Combining malar and submalar cheek augmentation is a technique that can be used to achieve a more harmonious and balanced facial appearance. It is best suited for individuals with hollows or depressions in both the malar and submalar regions of the cheeks. It can occur due to aging, genetics, or weight loss. This technique can enhance the cheeks' overall volume, shape, and projection. It can also help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the cheeks and the lower eyelid area. This procedure is ideal for patients with flat cheekbones or who want to enhance their cheekbones and overall facial structure. It's essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon who can evaluate your facial structure and recommend the best approach for your needs.

Why Cheek Augmentation?

Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the cheeks by adding volume, shape, and projection. There are several reasons why people may choose to undergo this procedure. 

One of the main reasons is to restore volume and lift to the cheeks you may have lost due to aging. The cheeks can become hollow and saggy as we age, creating a tired or aged appearance. Cheek augmentation can help to restore a youthful, rounded appearance to the cheeks. 

Another reason people may choose cheek augmentation is to improve their facial features' overall symmetry and balance. Some people may have naturally flat or uneven cheeks, which can affect their overall facial harmony. Cheek augmentation can be used to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. 

Cheek augmentation can also be used to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the cheeks and the lower eyelid area. The procedure can also be combined with other facial procedures, such as facelift or eyelid surgery, to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. 

Lastly, some people may opt for cheek augmentation to achieve a specific facial feature they desire, such as high cheekbones, or to enhance their overall facial structure. 

Cheek augmentation is a safe and effective procedure that can provide long-lasting results. It's important to discuss your options with a qualified plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon to determine if cheek augmentation is the right choice for you and to understand the procedure's risks, benefits, and recovery. 

Listed below are the reasons why cheek augmentation is one of the most sought-after procedures:

  • Fuller and higher cheeks
  • Improve appearance
  • Balances facial features
  • Boost self-confidence
  • Better facial proportion

What Conditions Are Cheek Augmentation a Solution to?

Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic procedure used to enhance the appearance of drooping cheeks by adding volume, shape, and projection. The procedure can be performed through injectable fillers, implants, or autologous fat transfer. The procedure is used to restore volume and lift to the cheeks that may have been lost due to aging, improve the overall symmetry and balance of facial features, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the cheeks and lower eyelid area. Cheeks can droop as a result of several factors, including: Aging: As we age, the skin loses collagen and elasticity, which can lead to sagging and drooping of the cheeks. Genetics: Some people may have a predisposition to sagging cheeks due to genetics. Weight loss: Rapid weight loss can cause the skin to lose elasticity and sag, including the cheeks. Facial Paralysis: Facial paralysis can cause the muscles in the cheeks to weaken, resulting in drooping of the cheeks on the affected side. Sun damage: Excessive sun exposure can cause the skin to lose elasticity, leading to sagging and drooping of the cheeks. Smoking: Smoking can cause the skin to age prematurely and lose elasticity, leading to sagging and drooping of the cheeks. Poor Diet: A poor diet can also affect the skin's elasticity and cause sagging of the cheeks. It's important to note that the drooping of cheeks may also be a combination of multiple factors. Cheek augmentation can help address the following concerns

  • Wrinkles and fine lines

    Cheek augmentation can help improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid and cheek area. As we age, the cheeks can become hollow and sag, leading to wrinkles and fine lines around the cheeks and lower eyelid area. Cheek augmentation can help restore volume and lift to the cheeks, improving wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid and cheek area.

  • Facial paralysis

    Facial paralysis can result in a loss of volume and drooping of the cheeks on the affected side. Cheek augmentation can help to restore symmetry and balance to the face by adding volume to the affected side.

  • Congenital malformations

    Some malformations that can affect the cheek area, like Treacher Collins Syndrome, can cause malformations of the bones and soft tissue of the face, and cheek augmentation can be used to improve the appearance of these malformations.

Steps to getting your procedure

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Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Cost of Cheek Augmentation

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cheek augmentation cost is $3669. It is just a portion of the actual cost; the actual cost may depend on several factors, including: Type of procedure: The cost can vary depending on the procedure used, such as injectable fillers, implants, or autologous fat transfer. Location: The cost of cheek augmentation can vary depending on the location of the practice, with prices typically being higher in larger cities or urban areas. Surgeon's experience and qualifications: The cost can also vary depending on the surgeon's experience, qualifications, and reputation. Type of implant or filler used: The cost can also depend on the type of implant or filler used. Some materials are more expensive than others. Insurance coverage: The cost can also depend on whether the procedure is covered by insurance. The number of sessions: If the procedure needs more than one session, it will increase the cost. It's worth remembering that the cost of cheek augmentation can vary widely, and it's essential to research to find a qualified surgeon who can provide the best results within your budget. It's always recommended to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon who can evaluate your facial structure and recommend the best approach for your needs and give you a precise cost estimation.

Why Yes Doctor for Cheek Augmentation

Yes Doctor's patient financing allows patients to pay for medical procedures, such as cheek augmentation, in installments rather than paying the entire cost upfront. The reasons why "Yes Doctor" may be suitable for patient financing are: 

  1. Flexibility: Their patient financing allows patients to spread the cost of the procedure over a more extended time, making it more affordable. 

  2. No up-front costs: Yes Doctor eliminates the need for patients to pay the entire procedure cost upfront, which can be a barrier for some patients. 

  3. No interest or low-interest rates: Yes Doctor offers interest as low as 0%, which can help keep the procedure's overall cost down. 

  4. Convenience: Getting your procedures financed through Yes Doctor is a convenient option for patients looking to pay for a medical procedure but are not ready to pay the out-of-pocket costs upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

The duration of the results of cheek augmentation will vary depending on the type of procedure used. Here are a few examples: Injectable Fillers: Cheek augmentation using injectable fillers such as hyaluronic acid (HA) based fillers can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of filler used and the individual's metabolism. Implants: Cheek augmentation using implants such as silicone or Gore-Tex can last for several years. However, there is always the risk of implant migration or infection, which may require removing the implant. Autologous fat transfer: This method uses the patient's own fat to add volume to the cheeks. The duration of the results for this procedure is usually longer than filler, and it can last for several years. However, it also depends on the individual's metabolism and the fat survival rate.
Cheek implants can help add volume and shape to the cheeks, which can help to lift the face and provide a more youthful and defined appearance. The procedure can also help balance and improve the face's overall symmetry. However, it's important to note that cheek implants alone may not be able to lift the entire face, and other procedures, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery, may be required to achieve the desired results.
Cheek implants can change the smile's appearance depending on the implant's location and size, as well as the patient's individual anatomy. The cheek implants are placed over the cheekbones, which can increase the prominence of the cheekbones, making the smile appear more defined. In some cases, the implant may be placed too high or too low, affecting the smile's appearance. Additionally, if the implant is too large, it may cause the cheeks to appear overly full, which can also affect the appearance of the smile.
Both cheek implants and fillers can help enhance the appearance of the cheeks by adding volume, shape, and projection. However, choosing the best option will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and goals. Cheek implants are a more permanent option for cheek augmentation, as they are designed to last several years. They are made of materials such as silicone or Gore-Tex and are placed through small incisions in the cheeks. Implants can provide a more defined and long-lasting result. However, they require a surgical procedure and have a longer recovery time. Fillers, however, are a non-surgical option and help add volume and lift to the cheeks. They are typically made of hyaluronic acid (HA) and are injected into the cheeks. Fillers can provide immediate results and have minimal recovery time. However, they are not permanent and may need to be repeated every 6-12 months. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to discuss your options with a qualifi... Show more.