Cheek Rejuvenation
Cheek Rejuvenation
Dr. Peter Bray
Patients often lament the “falling” of their cheeks, what were once high, full cheekbones now appear level on the face. How did this happen and how can this be fixed?
Facial Appearance
The face is a complex and integral part of the body, comprised of skin, muscle, fat and bones- in addition many different nerve systems that work to open and close the mouth and eyes enabling us to form expressions and communicate with others. During the natural aging process, gravity becomes the enemy of facial youthfulness. The loss of elasticity in the skin and supporting tissues cause the cheeks to “hang”, the cheekbones don’t really fall but the skin, fat and tissues begin to sag and droop. The loss of elasticity in the cheeks and supporting tissue can also give a “hollow” appearance.
Cheek Augmentation
Cheek Augmentation can be performed successfully both surgically and non-surgically.
- Non-surgical Cheek Augmentation is performed by using Fat Transfer from the patient (harvested via Liposuction)or performed with a choice of different Dermal Fillers.
- Surgical Augmentation using a facial implant or insert is permanent (pending revisions) and an effective and lasting way of increasing volume and structural support to the cheeks and underlying tissues. Cheek Augmentation also gives a mild lift to the jowls, tissues and face structure in general.
Different Surgical Options
Cheek inserts are made out of a few different types of synthetic materials. The most popular are either silicone inserts or polyethylene. The silicone inserts are typically smooth and the polyethylene are textured. Your specialist will decide which is most appropriate for your needs and desired results.
Implants are inserted under either a local or general anesthetic given with added sedation. Cuts are typically made through the mouth where the upper teeth meet the inside of the cheek. A pocked is then created between the cheek bone and supporting facial muscles. The appropriate sizing measurements are taken using a sizing insert and then the correct implant is inserted. Sometimes a titanium screw is used to anchor the implant to the bone to permanently keep it in place and eliminate any chance of unwanted movement or twisting. The incision is then sutured shut and patient is allowed to go home after a brief evaluation and some healing and care instruction in the recovery suite.
Proper Postoperative Care
A course of oral antibiotics is given post-operatively. Patients are occasionally wrapped in a compression bandage to decrease swelling and reduce the chances of hematoma. It is normal for a moderate degree of swelling, discomfort and increased tenderness in the cheek region after this procedure. You will be instructed to ice the cheek area regularly for the first 24 hours, maintain a diet of soft foods and not to smoke at all. It is normal for the upper lip area to feel numb following this procedure, this is a result of the nerves being disturbed in the region. Final results will be realized in 2–3 months provided you carefully follow your specialists healing and care instructions. Results can be permanent but with the natural aging process you may eventually need revision surgery to maintain your results.
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