Cheek implants are solid, artificial materials surgically placed to enhance the definition and fullness of the cheeks. They add volume to the mid-face, creating a more youthful and symmetrical appearance. Made from biocompatible materials like medical-grade silicone or porous polyethylene, they are intended as a permanent solution for improved facial contours. While long-lasting, they can be removed if a patient decides to reverse the procedure.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before cheek implant surgery, patients begin with an initial consultation to discuss aesthetic goals and undergo a medical evaluation. This includes a comprehensive review of their health history to ensure suitability. Patients are advised to adjust or temporarily stop certain medications, particularly blood thinners and some herbal supplements, to minimize bleeding risk during surgery.
During this phase, the surgeon discusses implant types and sizes. Options include malar implants for enhancing cheekbones, submalar implants for adding fullness below them, or a combination for balanced augmentation. The choice of implant material, such as silicone or porous polyethylene, is determined by facial anatomy and desired outcomes. Anesthesia options are reviewed; general anesthesia is common for comfort, though local anesthesia with sedation is also possible.
The Surgical Insertion Process
The surgical insertion of cheek implants typically lasts one to two hours. The procedure begins with anesthesia administration, ensuring patient comfort. The surgeon then makes precise incisions to access the cheek area.
A frequently used approach is the intraoral incision, made inside the mouth between the upper gums and cheek, which conceals visible scarring. Alternatively, an incision may be made in the lower eyelid, also resulting in minimal external scarring. External incisions might be considered if the patient is undergoing other cosmetic procedures simultaneously.
Once the incision is made, the surgeon elevates soft tissue to create a precise pocket directly over the cheekbone. This pocket is fashioned to securely accommodate the implant. The chosen implant (flexible silicone, porous polyethylene for tissue integration, or hydroxyapatite for bone integration) is then carefully inserted. The surgeon ensures proper positioning and may use small surgical screws to fix it in place, preventing shifting. Finally, incisions are closed with sutures, often dissolvable, particularly for those placed inside the mouth.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
Immediately following the procedure, patients are moved to a recovery room where medical staff monitor vital signs for a few hours. A dressing or light bandaging may be applied to the face for 24 to 72 hours to minimize swelling and support the implants. Patients commonly experience soreness, tightness, and mild discomfort in the cheek area, along with numbness.
Pain medications, prescribed or over-the-counter, are provided to manage post-operative discomfort. Swelling and bruising are expected, usually peaking within 48 hours, and can be alleviated by applying cold compresses and keeping the head elevated. Before discharge, patients receive detailed instructions on immediate care, including dietary restrictions such as a liquid or soft diet for several days. Specific oral hygiene practices, like using special rinses and gentle tooth brushing, are recommended to prevent infection and promote healing.
Recovery and Expectations
The initial recovery period for cheek implant surgery typically spans one to two weeks, during which most noticeable swelling subsides. Subtle swelling can persist for several months, with full resolution often taking three to six months. Patients may continue to experience tightness or numbness in the treated areas as tissues heal and skin adapts to the implants.
Activity restrictions are important during healing to ensure proper implant integration and prevent complications. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for one week to one month, depending on healing progress and surgeon’s recommendations. Contact sports are prohibited for at least two months or longer to prevent dislodging implants. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon monitor healing, address concerns, and ensure implants remain correctly positioned. The final results of the cheek augmentation become fully apparent once all swelling has resolved, revealing the enhanced facial contours.