Experiencing volume loss in the cheeks is one of the most common signs of aging. Having hollow cheeks can make you look tired and much older. Some people are even born with flat cheeks that causes them to look older than their actual age. Without optimal facial volume, the changes you experience in your face can make you feel unhappy and insecure.
Fortunately, there is an easy solution for those who suffer from a lack of facial volume. You can make use of implants to add volume and structure to your cheeks for a more youthful look that you can feel proud of.
The Cheek Implant Procedure
Cheek implants are available in different materials such as silicone, hydroxylapatite, and polyethylene. With silicone cheek implants, you have the option of getting them removed at a later date if you change your mind about the treatment. Hydroxylapatite implants become part of the bone tissues. Polyethylene implants are porous.
Cheek implants are also available in different shapes and sizes to accommodate the various types of facial structures people have.
While performing a cheek implant surgery, an incision will be made inside the mouth to allow for the placement of the implant. If you are having the cheek implant surgery with other facial procedures such as a facelift, then alternate incision sites may be used. These can be under the eyes or in your hairline.
The placement of the implants will be based on your body’s unique structure and your individual requirements. The placement can be over or under your cheekbones. To add more fullness to the cheeks, the implant can be placed below your cheekbones. For more projection, it will be placed over your cheekbones. Once the implants are in place, the incisions are closed with sutures.
Recovery and Results
You can expect the surgical swelling to subside within two to three days after the surgery. You can expect a full recovery within two weeks of the procedure if you take care to follow your doctor’s instructions. For the first few days, you will need to eat soft foods so that the incisions inside the mouth can heal properly. On the first day after surgery, you will be asked to consume only liquids.
The results from the procedure are noticeable after the surgery, but you will not be able to see the full effect of the surgery until the swelling subsides. The results you experience from undergoing a cheek implant surgery are long-lasting. The contours of your cheeks will be improved dramatically.
Factors to Consider Before the Surgery
If you wish to use implants for your cheek augmentation, then you should talk to an experienced plastic surgeon to learn more about the procedure. Based on your facial structure and your need to improve volume, your surgeon will recommend the size, shape, and the type of cheek implants that is right for you.
For best results possible, your surgeon may also recommend additional procedures in conjunction with the cheek implant surgery.
During your consultation, he will discuss your medical history and ask you about any previous cosmetic procedures that you may have undergone in the past. To prepare for the surgery, you will be asked to stop using certain medications to prevent excess bleeding.
If you smoke, you will need to refrain from the habit for a few weeks before and after your surgery. These are standard precautionary measures to minimize the risks of bleeding and bruising after the surgery.
Contact Our Office
Cheek implants can help you get rid of your tired, old look and give you the youthful cheeks you desire. If you’re interested in the cheek implant surgery or have questions about the surgical process, contact our office to schedule a consultation with skilled plastic surgeon John D. Rachel, MD, FACS today.
