Cheek Implants

Cheek Implants, colloquially recognized as malar augmentation, constitutes a surgical intervention straddling the realms of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. This sophisticated operation aims to magnify the prominence of cheekbones while providing contouring to the midfacial area.

Typically, these implants comprise biocompatible constituents such as silicone, ensuring their innocuousness within the human body. Adept practitioners of this intricate art, be they plastic surgeons or facial plastic surgeons, possess a profound understanding of facial anatomical intricacies and aesthetic principles. (1) (2)

Recent data compiled by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons divulges a staggering 932% escalation in Cheek Implants procedures between the years 2000 and 2020 (a leap from 10,427 to 108,189), rendering it the eighth most sought-after plastic surgery operation. In order to devise a bespoke treatment strategy that addresses each patient's unique apprehensions and aspirations, the surgeon meticulously examines the individual's visage.

What is a Cheek Implant?

The purpose of cheek implants, sometimes referred to as malar or cheek augmentation, is to improve the form, volume, and projection of the cheeks. These implants come in a variety of sizes and forms to suit different tastes and facial architecture and are constructed of biocompatible materials like silicone or porous polyethylene.

The surgeon carefully considers the material options for the implants while keeping things like safety, durability, and realistic-looking outcomes in mind. Due to their adaptability and capacity to reproduce the feel of natural tissues, silicone implants give off a more lifelike appearance. Conversely, implants made of porous polyethylene allow for tissue ingrowth, which promotes long-term stability and integration with the neighbouring face tissues.

The patient's desired outcome and face proportions are taken into consideration while determining the size and contour of the cheek implants. During the preoperative consultation, the surgeon closely collaborates with the patient to choose the best implant size and placement, providing aesthetically pleasing outcomes that harmonise with the person's facial features.

Cheek Implants Procedure

General anaesthesia or local anaesthesia combined with sedation are commonly used during cheek implant surgery. To create access points for inserting the implants, the surgeon makes little incisions inside the mouth or along the lower eyelid. Over the natural cheekbones, the implants are carefully positioned and fixed in place. Sutures are then used to close the incisions, and dressings or tape may be used to cover the wound during the early healing process.

To ensure a natural appearance, the surgeon assesses the symmetry and contour of the cheeks after the implants are firmly in place. The size and shape of the implants may change based on the intended result. To help establish the best implant size for each patient, surgeons frequently employ preoperative imaging or 3D simulations.

Patients may have some swelling, bruising, and soreness after the surgery, which can be treated with painkillers and cold compresses that have been given. It's crucial to carefully adhere to any post-operative recommendations, which may include food restrictions, refraining from physically demanding activities, and keeping good oral hygiene.

Patients frequently stick to a liquid or soft food diet during the early healing phase to avoid putting any strain on the implants. In order to track development and guarantee proper healing, frequent follow-up meetings with the surgeon will be made.

Cheek Implants Risks and Side Effects

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, undergoing cheek implant surgery encompasses several risks, as detailed by professionals during consultations. Before embracing this facial enhancement, understanding the potential adverse outcomes is indispensable.

Risks associated with cheek implants:

• Risks pertaining to anesthesia.
• Possible facial asymmetry post-surgery.
• The occurrence of bleeding.
• Rare instances of blindness due to fat transfers.
• Displacement of the cheek implant.
• Deep vein thrombosis alongside cardiac and pulmonary complications.
• Formation of fatty cysts or fat necrosis.
• Accumulation of fluid, known as seroma, or hematoma.
• Risks of infection post-surgery.
• Experiencing changes in sensation or numbness.
• Continuation of pain post-surgery.
• Potential dissatisfaction with aesthetic results or scarring.

The emphasis on extensive pre-surgical understanding underscores the importance of the consent process, affirming a patient's awareness and acceptance of these possible complications before proceeding.

Am I a Good Candidate for Cheek Implants?

Those who want better facial symmetry and a more prominent cheekbone structure can consider cheek implant surgery. Ideal individuals may naturally have flat or sunken cheeks through genetics or volume loss from ageing. Candidates must be in good general health and have reasonable expectations for how the procedure will turn out.

Candidates will go through a thorough evaluation to see if they are a good candidate for cheek implant surgery during their consultation with a licenced plastic surgeon. We'll take into account things like bone structure, skin elasticity, and facial architecture. Along with the procedure's potential hazards and restrictions, the surgeon will also go through the desired result.

Post-Procedure

Patients should anticipate recuperation time after having cheek implants. Early signs include swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort; these symptoms can be controlled with painkillers and cold compresses. It is crucial to adhere to the surgeon's post-operative instructions, which may include detailed instructions for dental hygiene and food restrictions.

Patients could have brief tightness or numbness in the cheek region, but this usually goes away as the healing process develops. Over the course of many weeks, the initial swelling progressively goes down, and most people can return to their regular daily activities in a week or two. However, to encourage normal healing, avoid vigorous exercise and activities that could put pressure on the cheeks for a few weeks.

Results

As the healing process progresses and the swelling decreases, the ultimate effects of cheek implant surgery become more visible. Patients will see enhanced face symmetry and a more pronounced cheek structure. The patient's natural facial characteristics, the type and size of the implant, and other variables could all have an impact on the specific results.

Within a few weeks following surgery, the majority of patients will start to experience measurable improvements. As the tissues settle and acclimatise to the implants' presence, the full effects might not become apparent for several months. The surgeon can monitor the healing process and treat any issues that may come up throughout the recovery period with the help of routine follow-up sessions.

In conclusion, cheek implant surgery gives people the chance to improve the shape of their cheekbones and facial features. Qualified plastic surgeons can assist patients in achieving their desired aesthetic goals by using biocompatible implants and precision surgical techniques.

Candidates seeking cheek implants should speak with a qualified expert to determine their suitability, go over expectations, and guarantee a secure and effective conclusion. Patients can get natural-looking, durable results from cheek implant surgery by being aware of the operation, following post-operative instructions, and maintaining reasonable expectations.