Some patients undergo cheek augmentation surgery because they lack defined cheekbones. For these patients, implants are placed under the cheeks to help balance out the face. Cheekbones can also be augmented non-surgically with fillers such as Voluma or Radiesse.
Some patients with prominent cheekbones desire a more narrow face shape. The goal of cheekbone reduction surgery is to make the facial shape more oval, less wide, and to restore balance to a patient’s face.
If you are considering cheek surgery, we want you to be thoroughly informed about the procedure. Below is some helpful information. A personal consultation with Dr Newen is the best way to obtain the additional information you will need.
Am I a good candidate for cheek augmentation or cheek reduction surgery?
Cheek augmentation surgery is performed on adults of all ages. Cheek augmentation surgery can add volume and definition to cheeks. You may be a good candidate for cheek surgery if you have a desire to change your facial profile.
Your personal consultation
During the consultation you will be asked about the results you expect to achieve from cheek surgery. This will help Dr. Newen understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved.
How will Dr. Newen evaluate me for cheek augmentation surgery?
You should be prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, any breathing problems you may have, and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.
How is cheek augmentation or cheek reduction surgery performed?
Cheek augmentation surgery is performed with a sterile, biologically inert implant which is placed over the bone of the cheeks. A wide range of cheek implants are available, depending on the patient’s needs and goals. These implants vary in their dimensions and are made of different materials. Dr. Newen will select the correct size and type of implant for you after he has discussed with you the look you want to achieve. Cheeks can also be augmented non-surgically with fillers such as Voluma and Radiesse.
Cheekbone reduction surgery reduces prominent cheekbones by contouring it down through an incisions made inside the mouth or behind the hairline. The cheekbones are shaved down or pushed inward. The results are permanent and very natural looking.
How do I prepare for my cheek augmentation surgery?
You will be provided with complete information about what to do before your cheek surgery, and our staff will check up on you and make sure you are ready for your procedure. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well ahead of the surgery date. You will also be asked not to take certain medications which increase the risk of bleeding. Your cheek surgery will be performed on an outpatient basis, please be sure you have someone to drive you home and take care of you for the next 24 hours.
Cheek Augmentation or Reduction Surgery Recovery – How will I look and feel initially?
It is important to realize that each individual’s recovery time will be different. You will be asked to restrict your activities and relax for a few days. Elevating your head when you sleep will help to minimize swelling and bruising. Generally, the greatest amount of swelling occurs 24 to 48 hours after surgery, but it may take several weeks before all puffiness is resolved. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of numbness, pain, swelling, and bruising.
The types of symptoms experienced and the duration of the symptoms vary in patients. Most patients return to work or school after 1-2 weeks.
Understanding risks
Significant complications from cheek surgery are very rare. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks. The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis during your consultation with Dr. Newen.
Your surgical experience
Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible. If you’re a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You will be provided with complete preoperative and postoperative instructions.
Cheek surgery is performed at Huntington Surgery Center, our outpatient surgery facility located within The Image Center. Please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
Non-Surgical Cheek Augmentation
A non-surgical alternative to cheek augmentation is to have Radiesse or Voluma injections to the cheeks. This procedure can restore volume loss in the cheeks and make the cheeks appear more youthful and lifted. Results are immediate, and will last approximately 6-12 months for Radiesse and 18 months-2 years for Voluma. This is a great alternative for patients who want to see how they would look with a cheek augmentation without having to commit to the permanency of surgery.
For more information
For more information on cheek surgery or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (714) 230-2430.
The services provided have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The material on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your physician before beginning any therapy program, aesthetic treatments, plastic surgery, and other services that the Image Center provides. Any designations or references to therapies are for marketing purposes only.