Understanding cheek augmentation (cheek implants)
Cheek implants enhance the cheekbones and provide an appearance of elegance and youth. They can give a relatively flat mid face a more attractive contour. They often add a finishing touch and provide balance for those seeking better facial harmony. Although most patients who elect to have cheek implant surgery are women, many men choose this surgery.
Recent improvements in surgical materials have resulted in a variety of sizes and shapes of implants. The implants are carefully designed to fit the skeletal form, resulting in a very natural appearance. All implants are composed of materials that have been found safe following many years of surgical use.
During the initial consultation, the surgeon analyzes the face and discusses the patient's objectives. If surgery is indicated, the appropriate implant for each patient and for each cheek is selected. When the face is asymmetrical prior to surgery, some asymmetry may be present following the procedure.
While cheek implant surgery may be indicated as a solitary procedure, it is commonly combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance the overall outcome. Cheek implant surgery is frequently performed with facelift, eyelid surgery and/or nose surgery to achieve an optimum result.
Understanding the procedure
Cheek implant surgery is usually performed using local anesthesia with I.V. sedation as an outpatient procedure. The implant is inserted through a small incision made inside the mouth. Depending on the patient's profile, the implants are inserted at or below the natural cheekbone by creating a small tunnel underneath the upper lip. The incision is closed with absorbable sutures to avoid the need for removal. The procedure heals with no external scarring.
Understanding the recovery
Immediately following the surgery, the surgeon may apply a pressure bandage that is removed in the office the next day. After the pressure bandage is removed there may be tape and/or a bolster over the cheeks. These stay in place for one to three days and are removed at the next appointment.
Recovery is rapid although there may be mild to moderate discomfort that is controlled with oral medications. Chewing is limited immediately after cheek implant surgery and a liquid or soft food diet is required for several days. Some activities such as lifting and bending are limited for several days following the procedure. Facial expressions and movements are also restricted to prevent the implant from shifting. Pressure to the cheek areas should be avoided for four to six weeks.
Although the cheek areas are swollen initially and some bruising may occur, most of the swelling subsides in a few days. Numb and firm areas around the cheeks and mouth are common, but are self-limiting. Most patients return to work or resume normal activities within a few days after surgery.
