Cheek augmentation, also known as mentoplasty or malarplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that can help reshape the facial structure. It can be used to correct a disproportionate chin caused by a congenital deficiency, age-related bone resorption, or an accident. It can also add new breadth to the face. With cheek implants and a new chin, you can achieve a more balanced and symmetrical face that gives you a new sense of confidence. The results of cheekbone augmentation surgery may initially be obscured by swelling.
If fat transfer is used, the results will depend on the amount of fat injected into the cheeks and how much is retained by the body. If solid cheekbone implants are used, the end result will be more predictable. Generally, patients can return to work or play about one week after cheekbone implants. Side effects such as swelling, redness, and bruising around the incision sites may occur during healing. If they persist after one to two weeks, you should report them to your doctor.
Cheek implants are often recommended for younger patients who want to find a permanent solution to fix bone structures within the cheeks. Cheek implant surgery can be combined with other facial cosmetic procedures such as brow lifts, forehead lifts, rhinoplasty, otoplasty, and facelifts. Cheekbone implants attach to the cheekbones with small micro-screws so they will always stay in place and won't fall out. The submalar implant is designed to provide maximum magnification in the sunken part of the cheek under the eye and next to the nose. Leaning back and tilting your chin forward can simulate half of your face augmentation and is a means of “previewing which cheek implants can improve one's appearance.” Dr. Gross performed bilateral cheek implants and mini-lifts to restore volume to his cheek and lift half of his face.
