As we age, our cheekbones stay put, but we start to lose the “baby fat” responsible for a full and lifted mid-face. The results are often less defined cheeks and a “hollowed” look. Using cheek implants, we can dramatically improve the contours of the cheeks for better projection and a more sculpted, lifted appearance.
What Cheek Implants Can Do For You
A cheek augmentation, or cheek enhancement, is a highly personalized surgical procedure. During your initial consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Todd. C. Rau, he will conduct a thorough review of your medical history and listen carefully to your facial cosmetic concerns to make sure you are a good candidate for cheek implants.
This process will also involve examining your face to determine how implants will best fit into your treatment plan. You may even decide to combine your cheek augmentation with another form of facial plastic surgery for a more uniform, balanced appearance.
Where Will My Implants Be Located?
Depending on the exact dimensions of your cheeks and the changes you desire, there are multiple options regarding exactly where your cheek implants will be placed:
● Malar - These implants are placed directly over the cheekbones themselves for a more
pronounced, lifted look.
● Submalar - As the name suggests, submalar implants are positioned just below the
cheekbones, helping to fill out hollowed cheeks.
● Combined - Malar and submalar implants can be used simultaneously for a completely renewed midface.
Will I Have Scars?
The insertion of cheek implants is not meant to change your facial appearance negatively. Dr. Rau avoids visible scars by creating incisions in secluded locations. In general, the incision for a malar implant is made on the inside of the lower eyelid. For submalar implants, Dr. Rau will usually place the incision inside the mouth behind the upper lip.
When Will I Get To Enjoy My New Look?
The healing process after a cheek augmentation with implants usually takes several weeks. Patients will typically see the final results of their procedure once the swelling fully subsides after about four to six weeks.
Are Implants The Only Way To Enhance My Cheeks?
Implants undoubtedly provide the most significant cheek augmentation results, but not everyone wants or needs this option. That’s why we also offer injectable filler therapy like Juvederm Voluma® XC. The formula behind this treatment contains HA (hyaluronic acid). Once injected, HA absorbs nearby water molecules for a volumizing effect — not to mention hydrated, youthful skin.
Juvederm Voluma® XC cannot replicate the results of cheek implants, but it provides a
noninvasive, temporary alternative. As the aging process accelerates, some patients may prefer to begin with filler therapy before moving on to implants after a few years.
Your Facial Profile Transformation
The next step in learning how cheek implants might redefine your facial appearance is to set up your consultation with Dr. Todd C. Rau at his office in Redlands, California. Contact Rau Plastic Surgery today to get started!