The Contoured Cheeks Of Magazine Covers

Cheek augmentation is a simple and subtle option for those who are looking to accentuate the upper face and achieve a more heart-shaped or sculpted look, while also slimming the appearance of the lower face. Cheek augmentation can enhance masculine or feminine features, and help to achieve balance with the jawline. For women, cheek augmentation can provide a lovely fullness and youthful appearance, whereas men may be seeking a more chiseled appearance–both of these goals are achievable with The Spiegel Center’s surgical expertise. 

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Cheek Augmentation Overview

No Visible Scars Mar Your Beautiful Face

This “scarless” procedure may be done with local anesthesia in the office.  It begins with small incisions made inside the mouth. Tight pockets are created, and solid silicone implants are placed under the soft tissue envelope, and over the cheekbones. The implants are available in many shapes and sizes and can be positioned in different areas of the cheek to suit the needs of the patient. 

The precise shape and size are chosen based on the patient’s goals and underlying facial structure. In some cases, a bone-filler paste, which can be molded to the desired shape, is used to complement the implant. Once the implants are properly placed, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures

What Is Recovery Like?

Recovery from cheek augmentation surgery is fairly light. During the first week, patients will experience some discomfort that can be easily managed with over-the-counter and prescription analgesics (painkillers) when needed. Patients will feel swollen for a few weeks following surgery but are able to eat immediately after the procedure and can return to their regular routine in just a few days. A mouthwash is used after surgery to keep the incisions healthy and clean, and antibiotics are prescribed to avoid infection. Patients should avoid strenuous exercise until cleared by their surgeon.

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Cheek Augmentation vs. Buccal Fat Removal, Cheek Reduction, and Dimpleplasty

When defining the midface, your goals determine whether you need to add volume, subtract tissue, reshape bone, or add a dynamic accent.

Quick Comparison

Procedure Primary Goal How It’s Done Best For
Cheek Augmentation Add volume & lift Dermal fillers or implants Flat, deflated, or aging upper cheeks
Buccal Fat Removal Slim & contour the lower face Removing the lower cheek fat pad "Baby-faced" or round cheeks wanting a chiseled look
Cheek Reduction Narrow the facial width Shaving or repositioning the cheekbone Physically wide or prominent bone structure
Dimpleplasty Create facial dimples A tiny suture anchoring skin to muscle Adding a subtle, charming smile accent

Volume (Addition vs. Subtraction): Cheek augmentation adds structure to the upper midface. Conversely, buccal fat removal slims the lower cheeks by removing soft tissue, while cheek reduction physically narrows the actual bone.

  • Target Tissue: Buccal fat removal affects only the soft tissue beneath the cheekbones. If your wide facial structure is caused by genetics and bone layout, a surgical cheek reduction is required to see a change.

  • Structural vs. Focal: While the first three procedures alter the entire silhouette of your face, dimpleplasty is a localized accent that creates a dynamic feature when you smile.

⚠️ Pro Tip: Removing buccal fat can sometimes cause a gaunt, prematurely aged appearance later in life. Consulting with a board-certified surgeon is vital to balance your immediate goals with your face's natural aging process.

Which of these procedures are you most interested in, or are you looking to combine them for a specific aesthetic result?

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You Deserve Aesthetic Confidence 

Cheek augmentation is a quick and easy procedure that can dramatically improve the overall shape of the face, enhance the appearance of your eyes, and add something special to your look. 

To schedule a consultation to get the gorgeous cheekbones you deserve, contact The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts today.

Cheek Augmentation FAQs

Are Cheek Implants Permanent?

Yes. Silicone cheek implants are designed as a permanent solution, unlike dermal fillers, which are temporary and require maintenance every six months to two years, depending on the product used.

Can Cheek Implants Be Removed or Replaced Later?

Yes. Cheek implants can be removed or replaced with a different size or shape if a patient's goals change over time. However, this involves a secondary procedure similar to the original surgery.

Do Cheek Implants Feel Natural?

Modern silicone cheek implants are designed to feel firm but natural under the skin, closely mimicking the feel of bone. Most patients and others cannot detect the implant by touch once healing is complete.

What's the Difference Between Cheek Implants and Cheek Filler?

Cheek implants are a permanent surgical solution placed through small incisions, while cheek filler is a non-surgical injectable that adds temporary volume and typically needs to be repeated every one to two years.

Can Cheek Augmentation Correct Facial Asymmetry?

Yes. Cheek implants can be selected and positioned individually on each side of the face, making the procedure a useful option for correcting cheekbone asymmetry as well as for general volume enhancement.

Will I Need Antibiotics After Cheek Augmentation?

Yes. Because the incisions are made inside the mouth, antibiotics are typically prescribed after surgery to reduce the risk of infection, and an antibacterial mouthwash is recommended during the healing period.

How Much Swelling Should I Expect After Cheek Augmentation?

Swelling is common for the first one to two weeks and can make the cheeks look fuller than the final result. Most of the swelling resolves within a few weeks, with subtle refinement continuing for a few months.

Can Cheek Implants Shift or Move Over Time?

Implant movement is uncommon when the implant is placed and secured correctly during surgery. However, trauma to the face or improper healing could theoretically cause shifting, which is why follow-up care matters.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Cheek Augmentation?

Risks include infection, bleeding, and temporary numbness around the cheeks. With implants specifically, there is a small risk of shifting, asymmetry, or the need for removal or revision if the patient is unhappy with the implant's size or position.

Cheek AugmentationBefore & After

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