Cheekbone Implants

What are cheekbone implants for? Who needs it? Can I undergo the procedure? Many Caucasian patients undergo cheek surgery because they lack defined cheekbones. Luckily for them, they can choose to have facial implants done to give them the physical features they desire. There is also a cheekbone reduction surgery which is usually done to reduce prominent cheekbones. Here we tell you more about the implantation type:

Things You Should Know

Cheek reshaping or cheek implants are referred to as malar augmentation. This surgical procedure helps to make the face look more appealing and distinctive. Those born with asymmetrical facial features or congenital defects may also have it done.  Cheek implants are particularly beneficial for patients who are between the ages of 38 and 50 years of age. At this age group, the implants can bring a vast improvement to the midfacial contour. The procedure can help to revive the soft tissues of the midface to discourage sagging of the skin.

Good Candidates

Cheek implants are very safe as well as relatively inexpensive and they come with low risks as far as health and well being are considered. However, not everyone can undergo cheekbone implantation. Here is a list of those who are good candidates for the procedure:

• Men or Women who are physically healthy and emotionally stable with realistic expectations as to what the surgery can and cannot do.
• Men or Women who feel their cheek sizes are too small.
• If a feature face due to the cheek is out of proportion.
• Men or Women who feel self-conscious.
• Must be over 18 year old with good health condition

Materials Used

Facial implants are either solid or porous and are made from two different kinds of material. The solid ones are made from non-toxic silicone while the porous ones are crafted from a non-toxic material called ePTFE or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. Both types of facial implants are made on a regular basis. To date, there have been no reported incidences of patients suffering allergic reactions from them. Both types of facial implants come in a multitude of sizes and shapes and they can be custom fitted and trimmed by your plastic surgeon to fit you in the most natural way possible.

How it Goes

At your consultation the plastic surgeon can show you pictures of other patients that show the before and after surgery photos to give you an idea of how the implants will look after the fact. Exactly how the procedure goes will be explained by your plastic surgeon. But in a nutshell, a cut is made inside the mouth and implants are placed under the cheeks to help balance out the face. Techniques may vary depending on the surgeon though. The procedure is usually done under a general anesthetic so you will feel no pain but will have to stay in at least overnight.

Recovery Period

The most common question is: will there be a scar and where? In cheekbone reshaping, because the cut is made inside the mouth, there will be no visible scar. Post-operatively, there will most likely be some swelling and sometimes bruising which settles within three weeks or so. Temporary numbness of the lower eyelid after cheek surgery and the side of the nose after surgery on the cheeks is also common. Don’t worry, it usually disappears within a few days though you may have a period of pins-and-needles discomfort during recovery.