Cheek Augmentation
Cheek augmentation – using a facial implant or an injectable filler – is offered by Dr. Ljung for the treatment of sunken or recessed cheeks caused by aging or caused by inadequate underlying bone structure. This procedure is often combined with a facelift to enhance the projection of your cheekbones.
Are You a Candidate for Cheek Augmentation?
When you are young, it’s common to exhibit a healthy fullness in the cheeks, making your face appear round or heart-shaped. When volume in this area decreases over time, that youthful appearance can become diminished. With cheek augmentation, Dr. Ljung can increase the projection and volume in your cheeks to restore your youthful facial appearance.
In some younger patients, the underlying structure of the facial bones does not project sufficiently, leading to a sunken cheek area earlier in life. These cases may also be appropriate for correction with cheek augmentation.
The basic indications for cheek augmentation are as follows. You may be a candidate if you:
- Exhibit a hollow appearance in the mid-face
- Have a cheekbone structure that lacks projection
- Lost weight and now exhibit wrinkles and flattened cheeks
Enhancing Facial Volume With Cheek Augmentation: How it Works
While taking your preferences and conditions into consideration, Dr. Ljung may recommend cheek augmentation with a malar implant or an injectable wrinkle filler. Although both methods can provide long-lasting results, the implant is considered a permanent solution to this cosmetic problem.
Injectable Fillers
Wrinkle fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and other products are provided at our practice, and Dr. Ljung can recommend the best product for your cheek augmentation procedure. Using a topic anesthetic or dental block to control discomfort, the filler is injected beneath the skin of your cheeks to a specific depth. The doctor may then massage the area briefly to ensure a smooth result. Cheek augmentation with a dermal filler can last 6 months to a few years, depending on the product chosen.
Malar Implants
Malar implants are specially designed prosthetics made of silastic, a firm silicone rubber that is used in a variety of medical applications. The implants are available in many shapes and sizes to match your facial structure. When performed as a single procedure, cheek augmentation requires an incision in the upper lip or in the lower eyelid. When performed in conjunction with a facelift, it can be inserted using a different method. Within the tissue of your cheeks, Dr. Ljung forms a pocket for the implant and secures it into place with screws or sutures.
Post-Op: What to Expect After Cheek Augmentation
You’ll be able to see the results (increased cheek projection) immediately after surgery. However, it can take some time for the swelling to fully subside and the long-term results to be realized. After about 3-4 weeks, you should be close to seeing the final results of your cheek augmentation.
To learn more about cheek augmentation plastic surgery in Wilmington and Jacksonville, contact Azalea Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation.
