Cheek augmentation is a procedure designed to give body and definition to the upper and/or lower cheek area and create a more balanced facial structure.
It uses implants and/or your own tissue taken from another part of your body to achieve the desired contour.
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Malar or upper cheek augmentation is used to create a more defined/higher cheek bone effect |
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Submalar or lower/mid-cheek augmentation is used to help fill out a sunken face. |
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What types of implants are used?
Implants come in a variety of materials, which include silicone and other man made materials such as porex or hydroxyapatite. Fat taken from another part of the body may also be used (see fat transfer). Occasionally, your surgeon may recommend bone grafting. The option chosen will depend on the particular circumstances.
Are there non-surgical alternatives?
In certain cases soft tissue fillers may be used instead. However, the results will be temporary (see facial fillers).
What are the risks?
Overall, this is a safe procedure with few complications. However, like all cosmetic procedures there are risks involved. There are general risks associated with surgery and risks specific to this procedure. Your surgeon will discuss these with you during your consultation. The most common problems are considerable bruising and swelling. Other problems are rare and include implant displacement, nerve injury causing numbness, reaction to anaesthesia, infection and bleeding. |
