Cheek Implants & Cheek Augmentation Surgery

High cheekbones have long been associated with elegance and a refined existence, or simply good breeding.  They also contribute to a more youthful, lifted appearance.  Cheek implants can give you the facial structure and youthful definition you desire.  Approaches may be non-surgical/fillers or surgical and may be done alone or in combination with  facelift, blepharoplasty (eyelid lift), rhinoplasty (nose job) and/or chin implant.

As we age, the fat pads that protect and are attached to our cheekbones, loosen and drop.  This causes a flattening of the mid-face.  As the fat descends, it creates a depression in the under-eye areas (called a tear trough) and as it settles down toward the nose and mouth, it creates an area of fullness (called a nasolabial fold).   As a result,  the mid-face appears to sag, making the under-eye area seem hollow and the bottom part of the face unappealingly heavy. Cheek implants can restore a more angular appearance to the face and have a rejuvenating impact on your entire appearance. But, you must be careful because cheeks that are too full can make you appear overweight.

If you’re considering cheek implants, choose your surgeon carefully. As cheek implants dramatically change your facial architecture, the wrong choice of implant shape, size, or material can produce a disastrous result that’s very hard to correct. As a facial plastic surgeon and ENT (specialist of the ear, nose and throat), Dr. Yagoda understands both the intricate structures of the face and the fine art of balancing its features to harmonious effect.

The Surgery

Incisions for placing the implant are usually made inside the mouth or, if you’re having a facelift at the same time, the implants can be placed during the procedure while the skin tissues are already elevated. If you’re having blepharoplasty, the incision might be made through the lower eyelid. The surgery takes approximately 45 minutes (for cheek augmentation alone) and is performed either under general anesthesia or IV sedation in a hospital or Dr. Yagoda’s office-based surgical suite.  

Recovery

During the first week, you can walk as much as you like, use a stationary bike or treadmill.  You will be able to return to full activities by the second post-surgical week.  If incisions were made inside the mouth, you may need to be on a diet of soft foods for the first few days. Numbness, akin to what you might experience after the dentist, is normal and to be expected. Stitches will be removed a few days after your procedure. You’ll probably be able to return to work in about a week.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgery, cheek augmentation carries certain risks such as infection, bleeding, a reaction to anesthesia, and scarring. Dr. Yagoda will explain these risks and those specific to cheek surgery in detail during your comprehensive consultation.

Read about Dr. Yagoda's Integrative Post Operative Care Program