Sometimes when we look in the mirror, we think, "Oh, if my cheeks were a little fuller and more shaped, how much more beautiful my face would be"? Maybe because of flat cheeks, we feel like our face looks a little older. As a solution to this, medicine has introduced `Cheek Implants`. So today, let's learn everything about this, as if we were talking to a friend.
Simply put, what are Cheek Implants?
These are custom-made implants that are surgically implanted above the cheekbones to give your cheeks a fuller, more sculpted look. Think of it this way, just like shoulder pads give a dress its shape, these implants give your cheeks a defined shape and fullness.
These are usually made from medically approved materials such as Silicone or Porous Polyethylene (for example, Medpor®). These have been used safely for decades. Most importantly, they are a permanent solution for flat or underdeveloped cheeks.
What are the main types of Cheek Implants?
There are three main types you can choose from depending on your face shape and the look you want. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Implant Type | Simply explained |
|---|---|
| Submalar Implants | These are implanted under your eyes, just above where your cheekbones begin. These are very helpful in correcting a sunken, hollow look in your cheeks. |
| Malar Implants | This gives a sharp, angular look with more prominent cheekbones. This type is often popular among young people in their 20s and 30s. |
| Combination | If you want, you can achieve both fullness and a clear shape to your face by transplanting both of the above types in the same surgery. |
Who would resort to this kind of surgery?
There are several reasons why someone might decide to get cheek implants.
- Correct a change in facial shape due to a congenital condition .
- Make both sides of the face symmetrical, or get a shape that suits your face better .
- Give your cheeks a clear, lifted look .
- With the aim of looking younger than your age.
- Restore damage to the cheeks caused by an accident or injury .
Who is suitable and unsuitable for this surgery?
This is not something everyone can do. Your plastic surgeon will discuss your health and expectations with you to determine if this is right for you.
The most important thing is to have realistic expectations about this type of surgery. It will improve your appearance, but it won't make you a completely different person.
| Generally a good candidate | May Not Be a Good Candidate |
|---|---|
| People in good physical health. | People who are overweight (BMI over 25) or obese (BMI over 30). |
| Non-smokers. | People with diseases such as Diabetes Mellitus. |
| People who have realistic expectations about the surgery. | People with blood or bone-related diseases. |
| Anyone, male or female, can do it if they meet the qualifications. | People with very thin skin. |
| Those who smoke and cannot quit before surgery. |
How to prepare for surgery and how the surgery is performed
Preparation before surgery
If you are considering this, you should first see an experienced plastic surgeon. Your doctor will ask you questions, examine your face, and possibly take before-and-after photos to compare your results. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have. Before surgery, you should follow your doctor's instructions exactly. For example:
- You may be asked to change some of the medications you are taking.
- You may be asked to stop taking painkillers or herbal medicines that increase bleeding.
- If you smoke, you definitely need to stop .
How the surgery is performed
This is a short surgery that usually takes about an hour. It is done under general anesthesia , meaning you are asleep and unconscious.
1. The doctor will make a small incision inside your mouth or under your eyelid .
2. Through that incision, the previously selected implant is placed and secured to the cheekbone, making sure it fits snugly .
3. Finally, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.
What happens after the surgery? And are there any risks?
This is usually an outpatient procedure where you can go home the same day. It is normal to feel some pain, stiffness, and swelling in your cheeks after the procedure.
Things to take care of after surgery:
- If the incision was made inside the mouth, you will be told to eat a liquid diet for about a week.
- You may be asked to use a special mouthwash (rinse) .
- You will be advised not to sleep face down for a few weeks.
Benefits and risks
Like any surgery, this one has its benefits and some risks. Having it done under the supervision of an experienced doctor can greatly reduce the risks.
- Advantages: Permanent (but removable if necessary) solution, gives the face a balanced and youthful appearance, and reduces recovery time.
- Risks: Bleeding, infection, numbness of the cheek, chronic pain, and sometimes migration of the graft, leading to facial asymmetry.
Are Cheek Implants or Cheek Fillers Better?
This is a problem that many people have. Cheek Fillers are a type of liquid that is injected into the cheeks. This also gives a fuller look.
The main difference is that `Fillers` are a temporary solution . Depending on the type of `filler` used, its effects will wear off in about 6 months to two years. However, `Cheek Implants` are a permanent solution .
If you don't want a permanent change, are afraid of surgery, or just want to try a temporary change, `Fillers` may be a good option. However, if you are looking for a long-term, permanent solution, `Implants` are the best option. Talk to your doctor about this and decide what is best for you.
When should you see a doctor?
Normal swelling and pain after surgery will subside within a few days. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms , call your doctor immediately.
- Excessive bleeding
- If the swelling increases too much
- If you get a fever
- Other uncomfortable symptoms
Go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately if you experience the following symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Abnormal heartbeat (Arrhythmia)
- Difficulty breathing (Dyspnea)
Take-Home Message
- Cheek Implants are a permanent solution that gives your cheeks a fuller, more defined, and more youthful appearance.
- This surgery is not suitable for everyone. An experienced plastic surgeon will determine whether it is appropriate for you based on your health condition and expectations.
- Although this is a permanent solution, it can be surgically removed if necessary.
- As with any surgery, there are risks involved, so be sure to discuss these with your doctor before the procedure.
- Cheek Implants and Cheek Fillers are two different things. It is important to decide which is right for you based on medical advice.
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