The Cheek Augmentation Procedure
High, rounded, well-defined cheekbones are perceived as a very attractive feature and cheek augmentation with implants is used to enhance flat cheekbones and create a more aesthetically pleasing face shape. It can also address the flattening of the mid-face that occurs with ageing as a permanent alternative to temporary dermal fillers.
Surgery Time
1 – 2 hours
Anaesthetic
General
Hospital Stay
Day case or one night hospital stay if required
Time Off Work
1 – 2 weeks
Full Recovery
4 – 6 weeks
Zygomatic implants are composed of materials such as silicone, titanium, biocompatible polyethene, and a material called PEEK which have safely been used in surgery for many years. They are permanent but can be replaced or removed if required.
Mr Juling Ong’s expertise as a facial reconstructive surgeon means he is highly skilled in producing a subtle improvement that achieves a more attractive appearance to the mid-face. Mr Juling Ong will carefully plan the procedure to adjust the cheek’s projection, shape and volume and will take into account your individual facial characteristics.
Mr Ong inserts the implants through incisions made on the inside of the mouth so there will be no visible scarring when healed. Implants are pre-formed or custom-made and will be carefully chosen to fit the underlying bony contours and the desired outcome. The implants are then secured to the underlying bone with small titanium screws.
The underlying bone can also be shaped and contoured in a zygomatic remodelling procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cheek augmentation?
Cheek augmentation is a procedure to enhance the prominence and projection of the cheekbones. It can be achieved surgically with solid silicone malar implants placed over the cheekbone, via fat grafting to restore midface volume, or non-surgically with dermal filler. Surgical augmentation provides a permanent structural change; fat grafting and filler provide a softer volumetric enhancement.
What is the difference between cheek implants and fat grafting to the cheeks?
Cheek implants provide a permanent, structural projection of the malar eminence and are particularly effective for patients who want a more prominent, defined cheekbone. Fat grafting provides a softer, more natural-appearing volume restoration for patients with midface hollowing or volume loss. The two can be combined for both structural enhancement and volumetric restoration.
Can cheek augmentation be achieved without surgery?
Yes. Dermal fillers placed along the zygomatic arch and in the midface can create a significant lift and volumising effect, often described as a ‘liquid facelift’. Results typically last twelve to eighteen months depending on the product used. For patients seeking a more substantial or permanent result, surgical augmentation is more appropriate.
Who is a suitable candidate for cheek implants?
Patients with flat or underprojected cheekbones relative to the rest of their facial structure. This may be a congenital feature or may develop with age as midface fat descends. Good candidates are in good general health, are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking, and have realistic expectations about the enhancement achievable.
Is zygomatic implant surgery safe?
Facial implant surgery is usually very safe, as the implants are typically well tolerated by the body. There is a small risk of infection, and you will be prescribed antibiotics for a few days after surgery to minimise this complication. If an infection occurs, the implants can be removed and replaced once the infection is successfully treated.
What are the risks of cheek augmentation with implants?
Risks include infection, implant displacement, asymmetry, changes in sensation in the cheek area and, rarely, damage to the infra-orbital nerve. As with all facial implant surgery, infection may require removal of the implant.
What is the recovery from cheek augmentation surgery?
Cheek implant surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia as a day case or overnight stay. Swelling is significant for the first two weeks and gradually resolves over six to eight weeks. Implants are inserted through an incision inside the mouth (intraoral approach) or a small external incision, leaving no visible external scarring in most cases.
When can I return to normal activities after cheek implant surgery?
Most patients can return to work within two weeks, and you are advised to avoid any strenuous physical activity for up to six weeks.
During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full. Please call us on 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.
