Cheek Augmentation
Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that entails volumizing and contouring the midface and cheek area, either surgically with cheek implants or non-surgically with cosmetic injectable fillers. The midface is often one of the first areas to be visibly affected by age-related volume loss, resulting in a sunken or hollow appearance. For patients looking to achieve a youthful, beautiful, natural-looking volume and contour but who want to avoid cosmetic surgery with a plastic surgeon, Dr. Green in NYC has an array of facial filler treatment options for you. In the past, the only way to achieve a midface lift in your cheeks was with cheek implants or a facial fat transfer. Thanks to advances in hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, invasive surgical procedures are no longer necessary. Non-invasive treatments with dermal fillers are at the forefront of cosmetic dermatological innovation, offering patients an easy, safe, and quick method to restore volume and reduce fine lines in the midface, jowls, lips, under eyes area, and jawline.
Cheek augmentation is designed to enhance your natural face shape with increased volume, restoring the natural beauty of your cheekbones. Skin breaks down collagen and elastin as part of the natural aging process. Both of these skin components provide structural support and contribute to a supple, youthful appearance. This collagen loss in the cheek area can exaggerate loose skin, volume loss, facial wrinkles, and hollows in the under-eye area, making us appear much older than we feel. Dermal fillers are an excellent treatment option for achieving a more youthful appearance, including enhancing facial definition and contour, replenishing volume loss, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without any downtime or discomfort. If you’ve noticed that your cheeks have lost volume due to aging or genetics, or if you have ever felt self-conscious about a flat or “tired” appearance, cheek augmentation with dermal fillers with Dr. Green may be the best treatment for you.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including dermal filler injections for cheek augmentation. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to ensure that it’s aptly suited to addressing their particular concerns and delivering their ideal aesthetic goals. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that rejuvenates and enhances the beauty of your unique facial features while delivering phenomenal, long-lasting, natural-looking results.
What is cheek augmentation?
Cheek augmentation is a type of cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the cheeks by providing volume or creating contour. Cheek augmentation may be surgical or non-surgical and is achievable with either cheek implants or facial fillers. Cheek augmentation should always be performed in a medical setting with either a board-certified plastic surgeon or a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in New York City. Whether you suffer from age-related volume loss in the cheeks or have a naturally more hollow appearance in the mid-face, it is possible to achieve high cheekbones and an elegant, contoured appearance with cheek augmentation.
Dr. Green is a world-renowned cosmetic dermatologist, consistently voted a “top physician” in New York City by Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, and New York Magazine. She has over 25 years of experience providing the best cosmetic injectables for facial rejuvenation, including lip, chin, and cheek augmentation. During a consultation with Dr. Green in her discreet NYC office, you’ll learn more about the process and possibilities for cheek augmentation.
What does cheek augmentation do?
Cheek augmentation is a process by which the facial structure can be enhanced either surgically via cheek implants or non-surgically via dermal fillers. Patients may turn to cheek augmentation for several reasons: As a result of the natural aging process, the production of structural proteins collagen and elastin decreases, which can lead to a loss of volume in the midface, sagging skin and fat pads dropping. Patients can turn to cheek augmentation to replace lost volume in the face and provide contoured cheekbones for a more youthful appearance in the midface. Some patients turn to cheek augmentation for increased facial harmony, looking to achieve high, contoured cheekbones for a more refined look. When it comes to creating facial harmony, Dr. Green is an expert in using a less-is-more approach with dermal fillers to achieve optimal results. Too much filler in the cheekbones can create a hollow appearance to the midface, which is why Dr. Green always takes each patient’s unique face shape into account when preparing for dermal filler injections.
Are cheek implants worth it?
Before the advent of cosmetic dermal fillers and other non-invasive techniques, cheek implants (and other facial implants, like lip or chin implants) were more commonly taken advantage of to create facial contours and provide a more youthful, long-lasting appearance. Surgical cheek augmentation is an invasive procedure that usually requires the use of local anesthesia and sedatives. Cheek implants themselves are available in an array of materials, including solid silicone, porous polyethylene (Medpor), or hydroxyapatite (a combination of enamel and bone). The implants are usually inserted through incisions in the mouth or near the lower eyelid, depending on the style of the implant and accessibility. The implants may be sculpted to fit an asymmetry in the face or recommended when reconstructive surgery is needed.
Compared to cheek augmentation with facial fillers, cheek implant surgery typically requires a significant amount of planning, money, risk, and downtime. For many patients looking to simply add or restore facial volume, enhance facial contour, and appear more youthful and rejuvenated, cheek implants are not worth the hassle. Suppose you are looking for a solution for replenishing facial volume and contour that doesn’t require any invasive plastic surgery or downtime. In that case, Dr. Green has a facial filler solution that will work for you.
Are cheek implants safe?
When your cheek augmentation procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or a board-certified dermatologist in a medical setting, your treatment should be safe and effective. Cheek implants can be inserted through a small incision in the mouth or near the lower eyelid and are often placed in a malar (outer upper cheek) or submalar (lower or mid-cheek) position. If the patient of a facial plastic surgeon is interested in combining this procedure with rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, chin augmentation, or brow lift, fewer incisions may be needed. Typically, a general anesthetic will be used to complete the procedure. There is a greater risk associated with surgical cheek augmentation than there is with non-surgical cheek augmentation, as the procedure is more invasive. The cheek implants may need removal if a patient develops severe side effects or unwanted reactions. Some of these undesirable results include cheek implant displacement, pulmonary complications, fat necrosis (where fatty tissue within the dermis dies), and deep vein thrombosis, among others. Due to these risks and the permanence of cheek implants, Dr. Green always recommends that patients consider non-invasive alternatives, such as cheek augmentation with dermal filler, before engaging with any permanent cosmetic surgeries.
Sculptra Before and after – 3 months
Are cheek implants permanent?
Cheek implants are meant to be a permanent option for cheek augmentation. One of the benefits, however, of choosing to have dermal fillers for cheek augmentation rather than to have cheek implant surgery is that as our faces continue to change naturally with age, we can adapt the dermal filler treatment plan to reflect evolving aesthetic goals and preferences. The permanence of cheek implants makes it a hassle to adjust their size, placement, and appearance over time. One of the potential risks of surgical cheek implants is that, over time, they can shift. Should the cheek implants become misaligned, a corrective cosmetic surgery is required to correct their placement. The adaptability of dermal filler treatment is one of the reasons why non-invasive dermal filler techniques have become popular for cheek augmentation. Cheek implants are intended to be permanent, and the only way to remove the implants is through additional invasive cosmetic surgery procedures that require planning, money, increased risk of dangerous or unwanted side effects, and downtime. For this reason, even patients interested in cheek implant surgery for permanent cheek implants often opt to try dermal filler cheek enhancement first to confirm what type of facial contouring is right for them.
Can cheek implants be removed?
Cheek implants involve the permanent, surgical placement of implants on or below the cheekbones (malar and submalar implants, respectively). Still, they can be removed via another surgical procedure known as “revision cheek implant surgery.” While having a permanent cheek implant can be an advantage to a surgical cheek augmentation procedure, if something goes wrong or the patient is unhappy with the appearance of the implants, it can be very difficult to remove or adjust. Revision cheek implant surgery will require additional cost and downtime with all the same risks as the original surgery, including scarring, bleeding, infection, asymmetry, poor healing, pain, and permanent skin discoloration. Patients may want their cheek implants removed if they experience asymmetry following the procedure or migration of the implant, resulting in unnatural fullness along the eyelid, nose, or upper lip. Even after removing the implant, patients may experience loose skin that must be corrected with an additional skin-tightening procedure.
Are cheek implants better than fillers?
Cheek implants and dermal fillers are effective cheek augmentation procedures that provide increased volume, definition, and refined facial contour to the cheek area and midface. Each cosmetic procedure has certain advantages that can be weighed when determining which one will be best for you. Cheek implants are permanently placed under the skin, either on top of the cheekbone (malar implants) or under the cheekbone (submalar implants), to add projection to the cheek area or replenish volume loss in the midface, respectively. Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are temporary, and the results of the cosmetic procedure will fade throughout one to two years, with a maintenance appointment typically required once a year.
While for some, the permanent, one-time nature of the surgical cheek implants can feel like an advantage, the temporary nature of dermal fillers allows Dr. Green to adjust to changing face shape over time. Also, if a patient wants more or less filler, Dr. Green can easily make those adjustments either by injecting more into the treatment area or dissolving the filler to start again. On the other hand, surgical cheek implants cannot be easily adjusted once placed. Removing or shifting an implant requires a whole other surgical procedure with associated downtime and risks of scarring and serious infection.
Another factor for patients to consider when deciding between surgical cheek implants and dermal fillers is the recovery time and associated risks. Any surgical procedure will have significant downtime associated with the treatment, and there is a higher risk of adverse events such as scarring, bleeding, infection, improper healing, and more. When dermal fillers are received by an experienced injector, such as Dr. Green, there is a very low risk of developing any serious adverse events, and there is no downtime associated with dermal fillers.
Why choose dermal fillers for cheek enhancement?
Cheek augmentation procedures have become increasingly popular in recent years because they offer an elegant, non-surgical way to restore lost volume to the face, treat sagging skin, and replace natural collagen loss that happens organically due to the aging process. Facial plastic surgery used to be the only method for bringing a fuller look to the cheeks. Long recovery times, bruising, sedation, sutures, and limited mobility after surgery have led dermatologists and patients to prefer non-invasive alternatives, such as cheek enhancement through hyaluronic acid fillers. Dermal fillers are injected into soft tissue and provide instantaneous results, offering a solution for those looking to achieve more prominent cheekbones or replenish lost volume in the midface without the need for invasive cosmetic surgery and downtime.
As a bonus, cheek augmentation with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers produces semi-permanent and reversible results. If a patient is unhappy with a treatment result from a hyaluronic acid dermal filler, synthetic hyaluronidase can be applied to the treatment area. Hyaluronidase is a naturally occurring substance in the body designed to break down hyaluronic acid. It can be used to essentially “undo” the effects of hyaluronic acid fillers in as little as one treatment. There are, however, additional risks and side effects when undergoing cheek augmentation surgery with cheek implants, as well as when removing the implants should there be unsatisfactory results or unwanted effects. For those interested in a safe, fast, easy cheek augmentation process that doesn’t require downtime, Dr. Green in NYC has a facial filler solution for you.
3 weeks Before and After – Juvederm Voluma
How do I know if I need cheek augmentation?
The decision to undergo a cheek augmentation procedure is personal for each patient. For some, the desire for increased facial harmony or symmetry might be the determining factor, as cheek augmentation can create high, elegant, contoured cheekbones. For others, age-related volume loss might be the driving factor. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to loose, sagging skin and a loss of volume in the midface. Dermal filler cheek augmentation can fill in lost volume in the cheeks and under the eyes for a more youthful appearance. If you are interested in cheek augmentation, you can get started by booking a consultation appointment with the board-certified expert dermatologist, Dr. Green.
Which cheek augmentation procedure is right for me?
To understand which cheek augmentation procedure is right for you, it is best to consult an experienced and knowledgeable medical professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green has over two decades of experience treating facial volume loss, creating facial contour, and producing a natural-looking, more youthful appearance. To achieve the most satisfactory results safely and effectively, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green in New York City, who can help you customize a treatment plan and develop a timeline for facial rejuvenation that caters to your skin concerns and cosmetic goals, without the need for invasive cosmetic surgery or downtime.
Who should get cheek fillers?
A good candidate for non-invasive cheek augmentation is any patient over the age of 21 who is in overall good health, seeking improved volume or contour in the midface, and has realistic expectations for their cosmetic cheek augmentation. This includes patients who are simply looking to enhance their cheekbones to appear more prominent, as well as those seeking treatment for volume restoration in the mid-face- whether their volume loss is age-related or simply due to genetics. In general, dermal fillers are contraindicated for patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding or who are allergic to lidocaine or any other ingredients listed in the dermal filler formulation. Additionally, patients with severe acne or skin infections at or near the injection site must treat these skin conditions before engaging with non-surgical cheek enhancement. Lastly, patients who have active autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis should abstain from engaging with cheek augmentation. Dr. Green uses her 25+ years of expertise with dermal fillers to ensure thoughtful patient care and will be sure to thoroughly discuss your medical history and aesthetic goals to determine which cosmetic procedure is right for you.
Which cheek filler is best?
Regarding dermal fillers, there is no singular “best” option on the market, as each individual will benefit from the varied formulations that brands like Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and Sculptra have to offer. However, a few dermal fillers are tailor-made to help enhance the look of the cheek area and midface. The following are among the most popular dermal fillers for cheek enhancement:
- Juvederm Voluma: This hyaluronic acid dermal filler engages the body’s natural collagen and elastin development to create a fuller, natural look, with results lasting up to two years.
- Restylane Lyft: This hyaluronic acid filler has a slightly shorter-term effect than Juvederm, lasting for up to one year with the longer-term enhancement of smooth, even skin texture.
- Restylane Contour: This hyaluronic acid filler, also from the Restylane family of dermal fillers, is the newest FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler designed to create a natural-looking shape and contour to the midface, with results that last up to one year.
- Radiesse: This dermal filler is made of a substance called calcium hydroxylapatite, which similarly engages collagen production to hyaluronic acid fillers, with lasting results up to a full year.
- Sculptra: This dermal filler has a foundation of poly-L-lactic acid, which can gradually increase collagen production and produce results lasting up to three years.
Non-surgical cheek augmentation with dermal fillers can also help the under-eye area appear less tired or sunken, providing a wonderful alternative to a more involved facelift or eyelid surgery.
During your consultation with Dr. Green in her private NYC office, she will help you determine which facial filler or combination of facial fillers would be best for your cheek augmentation. Every patient has a unique set of individual facial features, and the different qualities of the dermal fillers mentioned above may make one type of filler better suited than another to an individual patient. For this reason, it is critical to have a cosmetic consultation with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who understands the nature of each dermal filler and can create the best treatment plan for you based on your own needs and aesthetic goals.
How should I prepare for dermal filler injections?
Before coming to the office for cosmetic dermal filler injections, Dr. Green advises discontinuing any blood-thinning medications or vitamins, including aspirin, garlic, multivitamins, vitamin E, and fish oil for the prior two weeks. These medications can increase one’s likelihood of bruising as a side effect of dermal filler injections. If you have a high propensity for bruising, there is an herbal oral supplement, Arnika forte, that can be taken several days before your treatment to help prevent any excess bruising or swelling. The procedure for having dermal filler injections for cheek augmentation is fairly comfortable, and the fillers used by Dr. Green are compounded with lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to enhance patient comfort. However, a topical numbing cream can be sent as a prescription to any pharmacy for sensitive patients. One hour before your injections, the numbing cream should be applied to the entire treatment area. Once you arrive for treatment, your numbing cream will be removed, and your skin will be sterilized. Dr. Green will then perform your cheek augmentation injections. The treatment area is iced immediately upon completion of the procedure to reduce any potential swelling that may occur. Dr. Green asks her patients to return two weeks after cheek augmentation treatment to evaluate cosmetic results and determine whether any touch-up is needed.
What is the cheek augmentation procedure like with dermal filler?
Before any cosmetic procedure that takes place, including cheek augmentation with dermal fillers, a consultation with Dr. Green is required. During a consultation, you will discuss with Dr. Green in-depth your medical history, your history with cosmetic procedures (including any previous cosmetic injections), and your desired results from treatment. Photos are always taken of the treatment area to enhance the discussion during the consultation with Dr. Green and are included in your medical chart to track your treatment progress. Together with Dr. Green, you will establish a treatment plan and a timeline that caters to your skin concerns and aesthetic goals. The total cost of your cheek augmentation treatment will be discussed during your consultation. Once it has been determined which cosmetic procedures will be performed, you may have treatment on the day of your consultation or schedule for a later date, depending on preference and time allowance.
On the day of your cosmetic injections for cheek augmentation, you will apply a topical numbing cream to the entire treatment area one hour before your appointment. This step ensures minimal discomfort throughout the procedure. Once you arrive at Dr. Green’s private office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of New York City, the numbing cream will be removed and the skin sterilized before the injections occur. Dr. Green will then perform your cheek augmentation procedure using the dermal fillers selected during your consultation.
Juvederm Voluma in the cheeks. Two syringes.
How long is the downtime for cheek augmentation?
The amount of downtime required depends on whether patients opt for surgical or non-surgical cheek augmentation. Following a non-surgical cheek augmentation of dermal filler treatment, ice packs are applied to the treatment area to help minimize swelling at the injection sites. Most patients have no downtime and can resume daily activities immediately. It is expected that there may be some mild swelling that resolves on its own within one to two weeks of treatment. Patients can immediately return to their normal activities but should refrain from exertional exercise for at least 48 hours following cheek filler treatment, as this could exacerbate any potential swelling effects. Some patients may experience mild bruising at or near the injection sites, too. For patients who are prone to bruising or who experience bruising after the treatment, an oral herbal supplement called Arnika Forte is available. Arnika Forte can also be taken for several days before to help prevent bruising.
The downtime can last for much longer for patients undergoing a surgical cheek augmentation procedure. Depending on where the incision has been made, gauze bandages may be applied (for incisions made under the eyes), or a liquid diet and oral medication may be prescribed (for an incision made via the mouth). It typically takes 3-5 days for the initial swelling to dissipate following a surgical procedure. Most patients are advised not to return to normal activities for at least a week after the treatment. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks following treatment to reduce the risk of any adverse effects. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with more information about what medications to take to alleviate pain, when it is appropriate to get the wound wet, and when to return for a check-up appointment.
How long does cheek augmentation last?
On average, dermal filler injections in the cheeks last six months to 2 years. The duration of your cheek filler treatment results will ultimately depend on the type of dermal filler used to provide your cheek augmentation and your metabolism. Hyaluronic acid cheek fillers usually need to be maintained twice a year for optimal cosmetic results, whereas the results from having cheek augmentation with Sculptra injections generally last for two years. Though dermal filler cheek augmentation results can be fairly long-lasting, many patients elect to engage in “touch-up” treatments annually to maintain optimal cosmetic results. When you have non-surgical cheek augmentation with Dr. Green, she will work with you to establish a timeline for your dermal filler injection treatments that works best for your particular needs and aesthetic goals.
What are the risks of cheek augmentation?
The risks associated with dermal filler cheek augmentation are very low. As a non-surgical procedure, dermal fillers are not associated with many side effects other than mild effects, including some swelling, tenderness, and bruising at the injection site, which will go away after several days. For a surgical procedure, such as cheek implants, there are many risks associated with the treatment, including bleeding, asymmetry, scarring, improper healing, infection, deep vein thrombosis, coronary issues, migration of the cheek implant, blindness, lumpiness, swelling, and persistent pain. Before undergoing any surgical procedure, weighing the risks associated with treatment and discussing them with your healthcare provider is important.
Can you combine Botox injections with cheek fillers?
Yes! Patients of Dr. Green’s regularly choose to have their Botox injections and dermal filler treatments during the same appointment to achieve pan-facial rejuvenation conveniently. Botox and other neuromodulators, like Xeomin and Dysport, work by “freezing” the overworked muscles responsible for facial expression and creating dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are those that are caused by repetitive movement/overuse of particular muscle groups- typically most apparent on the forehead, the glabella, and around the eyes at the crow’s feet. Combining Botox injections with dermal filler treatment is often called a “liquid facelift.” By utilizing a variety of cosmetic injectables within the same treatment session, Dr. Green can target dynamic wrinkles, fine lines, static wrinkles, and age-related volume loss. Cheek augmentation procedures are often combined with Restylane or Juvederm injections along the nasolabial folds, chin, temples, and jowls. These areas of the face are also subject to collagen loss as we age, thus appearing more “sunken,” and tend to benefit greatly from dermal filler treatment to replenish facial contour, reduce hollows, and produce a rejuvenated, refreshed, more youthful appearance with long-lasting, natural-looking results.
Restylane Contour for cheek augmentation
Restylane Contour is the newest FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler on the market, designed specifically for contouring the cheek area and replenishing volume in the mid-face. Restylane Contour is a hyaluronic acid filler manufactured by Galderma, a trusted leader in skincare, and utilizes XpresHAn technology to improve midface contour deficiencies and volume loss. The benefit of the XpresHAn technology is that it enhances skin elasticity, provides contour, and restores facial volume while allowing for natural, beautiful, and fully dynamic facial expressions, creating very natural-looking rejuvenation results. Restylane’s XpresHAn technology was previously reserved for developing fillers designed for lip enhancement and fine lines around the mouth. XpresHAn technology uses a fine particle size to carefully integrate hyaluronic acid with the skin cells at or near the injection site, creating a smooth result that doesn’t inhibit natural facial expressions and motion. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience providing her patients with the best cosmetic dermal filler injections for cheek augmentation and loves the results that can be produced with Restylane Contour. During your consultation with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Restylane Contour and the Restylane family of dermal filler products and discuss which fillers are best suited to your personal cheek augmentation treatment, depending on your particular facial anatomy, skin concerns, and aesthetic goals.
Cheek augmentation with Juvederm Voluma
One of the benefits of using hyaluronic acid injectable fillers, such as Juvederm Voluma XC, for cheek augmentation is that you can create results that are as subtle as you want. Dr. Green’s aesthetic approach to facial fillers is to produce a natural-looking result that is never “overdone.” Her less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation focuses on enhancing the beauty of your natural facial features. Since the results of Juvederm Voluma dermal filler injections are immediate, you can decide with Dr. Green at the time of the cosmetic procedure how much filler you would like. Dr. Green is well-known for embracing a holistic approach that always results in extremely high patient satisfaction, especially regarding the cheek augmentation procedure. Juvederm Voluma dermal filler treatment results generally last for one year, although results may vary in terms of longevity depending on how much of the filler was injected and how quickly the patient metabolizes the hyaluronic acid. Dr. Green will help you to determine a timeline for your cheek filler treatments that work for you and help maintain ideal cosmetic results.
Can cheek fillers go wrong?
For most patients, the side effects associated with having dermal filler cheek augmentation are incredibly mild, if they occur at all. Some potential side effects may include minor swelling, redness, tenderness, or bruising at or near the injection site, all of which should resolve on their own fairly quickly post-treatment. In rare instances, severe side effects, such as an infection or injection of filler directly into a blood vessel, can occur. However, these severe side effects are far more likely to occur with an inexperienced or unqualified injector, such as those who offer treatment at medical spas or aesthetic centers.
For this reason, Dr. Green always recommends that you schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for any cosmetic injectable treatment, including dermal fillers and Botox or other neuromodulators. Only an expert injector and medical professional can offer you facial contouring benefits that are both safe and effective. Dr. Green is an internationally recognized expert in cosmetic injectables, and the safety and satisfaction of her patients are her top priority. When patients think about dermal filler procedures “going wrong, ” they usually are referring to an outcome that does not align with their aesthetic goals. Though this can potentially occur with dermal fillers, it’s highly unlikely to be the result when collaborating with an experienced and artful injector like Dr. Green, who customizes your cosmetic treatment plan to complement your existing facial features to produce beautiful yet natural-looking results.
What is facial fat transfer?
A facial fat transfer (fat grafting) is a surgical procedure that entails taking fat stores from an area of the body and placing the fat into an area of the face that lacks volume. This process is a semi-permanent solution for volume restoration in the face, and results can last for several years. However, over time, some of the injected fat is naturally depleted. To correct the appearance of volume loss from the natural aging process, this procedure relies on liposuction or surgical fat removal from where stubborn fat can occur, such as the stomach, thighs, or buttocks. The fat cells are then purified and injected into areas of the face such as the cheeks, under-eye hollows, and lips. This cosmetic surgery typically takes about two to three hours to complete, and patients typically undergo general anesthesia for the procedure. This implant procedure requires ample recovery time due to the incisions made on the body. If you are considering a facial fat transfer for cheek augmentation, consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green, who can help you determine which solution will provide you with the best long-lasting cosmetic results.
Voluma – Two weeks before and after
How much is cheek augmentation?
Cheek augmentation with dermal filler can range in price greatly depending on several contributing factors. The cost of your non-invasive cheek augmentation will be influenced by the amount of dermal filler product needed to augment the area, as well as the type of filler (hyaluronic acid or alternative formulation) selected for your treatment. Other factors that influence the total cost include the geographic location of the medical office where you are treated and the experience level of your injector. Generally, cheek augmentation with dermal fillers is more affordable than surgical cheek augmentation options. Most patients prefer facial rejuvenation treatment with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers since they can be as effective as cheek augmentation surgery, save time and money, and eliminate risk and downtime. During your consultation with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss your aesthetic goals and determine the type and number of dermal filler syringes needed to achieve optimal results. The total cost of your cheek augmentation treatment will be discussed at this time.
Can dermal fillers get rid of jowls?
Many patients tend to assume that injecting the cheek area and providing a lifting effect may be sufficient for minimizing the appearance of the jowls, too. It is important, however, to be realistic about the anticipated results from your cheek filler treatment. Injecting filler into the cheek and midface can provide a lifting effect for the jawline and jowl area, though the results may not be dramatic. For moderate to severe skin laxity at the jowls, a skin-tightening procedure may be more appropriate for treatment and produce better results. Dr. Green often recommends a skin-tightening procedure called Thermage FLX to her patients. Thermage is an RF technology that works by heating the skin to induce collagen production in the dermal layers of the skin. Through this method, patients can observe dramatic skin tightening effects without the need for any downtime whatsoever. Suppose you are concerned about a sunken or hollow appearance at the midface and skin laxity at the jowls. In that case, Dr. Green can help you construct a customized treatment approach that caters to your concerns and produces ideal cosmetic results that are natural-looking and long-lasting.
Before/After photo: Juvederm Voluma for cheeks and Restylane under eyes – 2 months
Can cheek implants move?
Yes, surgical cheek implants do have the potential to move because of the power of the facial muscles in the treatment area. It takes up to 72 hours for cheek implants to settle after being placed, and they are susceptible to movement during this time. This side effect can also occur due to the technique used by the plastic surgeon, which is why a board-certified expert must always perform any cosmetic surgery. If cheek implants move out of alignment, a second cosmetic surgery may be required to correct their placement. Due to the potential for unwanted side effects and poor cosmetic outcomes, many patients prefer dermal filler injections for cheek enhancement. Dermal fillers are also a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure, requiring significantly less downtime and discomfort when compared to a surgical cheek augmentation procedure. Dermal fillers can also be adjusted over time as patient needs and aesthetic goals evolve, making cheek enhancement a completely customizable experience.
Are cheek implants dangerous?
Surgical cheek augmentation is a cosmetic surgery and, as such, is associated with a number of potential risks. Some of the complications that can occur with surgical cheek augmentation include infection, asymmetry, displacement, and erosion of the cheekbone. To ensure that you achieve optimal results while limiting the potential for encountering unwanted side effects and poor cosmetic results, it is imperative to find a trusted plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing cheek implants.
Will cheek filler go down? When will cheek swelling go down?
A common side effect of dermal filler injections is mild swelling at or near the injection sites. To mitigate this side effect, ice packs are applied to the treatment area immediately upon completion of the dermal filler injections when you have non-surgical cheek augmentation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC. The cheek filler can take up to two weeks to settle, after which any swelling will have resolved. Dr. Green may ask you to return to her office two weeks after your cheek fillers to reassess the treatment area once they’ve settled and determine whether any touch-up is required. Dr. Green also advises her patients to discontinue any blood-thinning agents, including multivitamins, vitamin E, garlic, aspirin and aspirin-containing products, coumadin, Aleve, and ibuprofen, in order to help prevent encountering side effects like excessive swelling and bruising. When you have cheek fillers with Dr. Green, she will provide you with all of the pre-injection rules and pertinent aftercare information required for achieving and maintaining the best results.
Where does cheek filler get injected?
Cheek filler is injected around and above the cheekbones to enhance facial definition and contour and create a more youthful appearance. If there is volume loss in the midface, the filler may be placed in the mid-cheek or lower cheek in order to replenish volume. A dermal filler may also be injected to correct the appearance of fine lines and facial wrinkles, including nasolabial lines. Depending on the scope of your treatment, your injector may utilize one type of dermal filler or suggest using a combination of various dermal filler products. An expert injector like Dr. Green will strategically plan your filler placement to ensure that you achieve lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation results. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options, including dermal filler injections for cheek enhancement. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood for cheek augmentation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your particular skin concerns and aesthetic goals. She will physically assess the midface and cheek area to determine which dermal fillers are best suited to your treatment and where they will be injected.
When does cheek filler stop hurting?
One of the potential side effects of cheek filler injections is mild discomfort or tenderness in the treatment area, usually at or near injection sites. This can occur due to the punctures in the skin during the injection process or the injected filler slightly displacing the skin tissue. This is a normal side effect of cheek fillers and usually resolves on its own within 48 hours of having treatment. To help with any discomfort, Dr. Green advises her patients to take Tylenol. It is recommended to avoid blood-thinning medications, including pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, Aleve, and Advil. Since these medications are blood thinners, they can actually worsen other side effects like swelling. The cheek filler can take up to two weeks to settle fully, after which the final results of the procedure are observed. Dr. Green may ask you to return to her office two weeks after your cheek filler treatment to reassess the treatment area and determine whether any touch-up is required.
What is the best filler for cheek augmentation?
When patients ask what the ‘best’ filler is for cheek augmentation, the answer is: it depends! Each patient presents with a unique facial anatomy, particular concerns, and personal aesthetic goals that can influence which dermal filler is best suited to their cheek augmentation treatment. So, when it comes to naming the best filler for cheek augmentation, there is no universal option for all patients. Dr. Green uses both Juvederm Voluma and Restylane Lyft for cheek augmentation. Each dermal filler product offers a unique formulation that provides its benefits, meaning that what’s best for one patient may not be best for the next. Selecting which facial fillers are best for each patient requires thorough experience and expertise. An experienced injector like board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green has the expertise required to select the appropriate dermal filler for a patient based on their age, the signs of aging affecting them, and their aesthetic goals. To enhance the appearance of the midface and cheek area, Dr. Green often employs fillers such as Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Contour, and Sculptra.
Who should get cheek augmentation?
Dermal filler cheek augmentation can be performed on patients over the age of 21 who are interested in improving facial harmony, contouring the cheekbones, or replacing age-related volume loss in the midface. Due to their temporary and easily adjustable nature, dermal fillers are an ideal option for cheek augmentation, especially for those seeking treatment for the first time. To determine the type of filler and treatment plan that is right for you, it is best to consult with Dr. Green at her Upper East Side New York City dermatology office.
How to schedule a consultation for cheek augmentation in NYC today
If you struggle with the appearance of a sunken midface or hollow cheeks or simply lack the kind of facial contour that you’d like- cheek augmentation may be the solution for you. Whether you have lost facial volume due to age-related collagen breakdown or naturally lack facial contour at the cheekbones and midface due to genetics, Dr. Green in NYC can provide an artful solution. Dr. Michele Green is an expert in non-invasive cosmetic dermatology procedures, including the best Botox injections and dermal filler treatments in New York City.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive cosmetic procedures available, including cheek enhancement with dermal fillers. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to suit their particular needs and aesthetic goals. When you choose to work with Dr. Green, she will guide you to achieving a rejuvenated and natural-looking appearance so that you look and feel like the best version of yourself. Dr. Green provides her patients from around the globe with the best cosmetic injections for lip augmentation, chin augmentation, cheek augmentation, or pan-facial rejuvenation. Dr. Green is consistently voted one of the best dermatologists in New York by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and learn more about cheek augmentation with dermal fillers, call the office at 212 535 3088 or contact us online today.