CREATE PERFECT DIMENSION
CHEEK AUGMENTATION
What is Cheek Augmentation?
Many people have heard of facelifts or considered injections, but there is a whole group of specialized procedures that can treat specific areas of the face. One of which is a cheek augmentation. The goal of this procedure is to add volume or to lift the cheeks. It’s common as we age for our face to lose volume in the apples of our cheeks, and this can also lead to sagging.
Some of us never develop the desired volume in their cheeks that they hope for and are bothered by cheeks that seem flat or thin. Some of our patients start out with injectables or fillers but find the results are not as dramatic as they would hope. In this case, surgery might be a good alternative. While injectables can make a noticeable difference, surgical cheek implants can be both more dramatic and permanent.
What are the options for Cheek Augmentation?
Essentially there are four main categories for cheek augmentation. Implants, fat transfer, lower blepharoplasty (cheek lift), and dermal fillers. Three of these are surgical options and dermal fillers are a less invasive procedure where a substance is injected into the face with a needle.
Dermal Fillers
This is less invasive, but the results are also less dramatic and only temporary. To find out more about our dermal fillers, you can find more information under the LUX Spa tab at the top of the page. For more information on the surgical options, keep reading.
Fat Transfer
A fat transfer cheek augmentation is a procedure where fat is removed from one part of your body (usually the thighs, abdomen, and hips) through liposuction and deposited and resculpted in your cheeks. It takes a highly skilled surgeon to graft the fatty tissue and resculpts it for natural fuller looking cheeks. Dr. Larsen is exceptionally talented in facial surgeries and creating natural results.
Cheek Implants
Implants are another surgical option for cheek augmentation. Implants are the most reliable, predictable, and permanent option for cheek implants. In this procedure, an implant (usually made of silicone) is often attached to the cheekbone under the facial tissue.
Cheek Lift (Lower Blepharoplasty)
A cheek lift can be performed to lift sagging skin under the eyes and over the cheeks. A fine incision is made at the lower eyelid lash line and extended slightly past the lateral corners of the eyes. Dr. Larsen will remove excess skin and, if needed, reposition the fat pad underneath the eye to give the patient more volume resulting in a more youthful appearance. This procedure can also be paired with a fat transfer if more volume is desired.
As you can see there really is no “best” option here. These are all safe and effective options that have different effects. If you are still trying to decide which option is best for you, call us today and book a free consultation. Dr. Larsen and his team will be happy to answer your questions and find the best treatment option for your optimal results.
Click here for more information on financing your cheek enhancement surgery.
“Communication before and after the surgery was excellent, and I knew what to expect every step of the way. I am very pleased with the results.”*
*Your results may vary. Click here for more real reviews from past Buckhead Plastic Surgery patients.
What is the cost of cheek augmentation?
According to 2019 statistics, the average cost of cheek augmentation surgery is $2,986. This average however is only part of the total price, it does not include things like anesthesia, operating facilities, or other related expenses. At Buckhead Plastic Surgery it’s common for people to pair this procedure with other cosmetic surgeries or injections.
Unfortunately, cheek augmentation surgery is generally considered elective surgery and not covered by many insurance plans. However, in an effort to meet the needs of as many patients as possible, we do work with many third-party medical financing companies. Financing is available for those who qualify.
What is recovery like?
It’s very typical to wake up from cheek augmentation surgery with gauze and surgical dressings applied to your face. It’s also common for compression bandages or garments to be in place to help minimize swelling immediately following surgery.
Some surgeons make the incision for cheek implants in this surgery from the inside of the mouth. If this is how your surgery was performed you might be placed on a liquid diet or be given specific instructions for how to care for the incisions.
Following any facial surgery, we request that you stay overnight. Let us manage your pain and monitor you while you’re the most sensitive right after surgery. After the first night, you can return home and make a few lifestyle adjustments while your face continues to heal.
Swelling is the most common side effect of this surgery and you can expect to deal with swelling at the surgical site for several weeks. And it will take a solid 4-6 months for your face to totally heal. Most patients can return to work within 7-10 days after this procedure as long as they are avoiding sun exposure or any activities that would lead to abrasion or excessive force to the face. As with any surgery following your doctor’s instructions is the key to success in healing from your surgery.
What are the results like?
The final results of cheek augmentations are quite impressive. But it takes some patience to see them. Initially, after the surgery your face will be extremely swollen, as with facial plastic surgery. If your surgeon opts for the fat transfer the results will be based upon how much fat was injected into your cheeks and how much fat your body has retained. This can be affected by many factors, such as your body’s individual metabolism and your surgeon’s specific techniques.
If solid cheek implants are used then your final results will be more predictable. Although good results are always expected, it’s hard to create realistic expectations with facial surgeries. There are factors that affect how your body will respond to this surgery, and of course, even though the results of the surgery will be permanent your body will continue to age.
Because of this on rare occasions, it’s possible that you might not achieve your desired results with a single procedure. In these cases, you’re left with a few options. Some patients require a second surgery. While other patients simply “touch up” and boost their surgical results with injectable fillers as a long term maintenance plan. This allows them to achieve the results they want without returning to surgery.
Why Choose Buckhead Plastic Surgery for Your Cheek Augmentation
Deciding to have facial surgery is a major decision. The results will affect you for the rest of your life. Choosing a surgeon is a serious decision. Dr. Larsen is a double board-certified surgeon with years of experience in facial plastic surgery. He has a reputation for medical excellence and has an eye for detail. One of the reasons he is so successful in the world of facial plastic surgery is because he is skilled in creating a dramatic difference while maintaining a natural look.
His previous patients have described him as straightforward and trustworthy. When you call to book your free consultation he will examine the areas you’d like to treat and explain to you all your options, surgical and otherwise. Our goal is to help you look and feel like the best version of yourself. He will answer all your questions and show you before and after pictures of other patients who have had similar procedures done. We’re confident that after meeting Dr. Larsen you will feel at ease.
At Buckhead Plastic Surgery we want all our patients to feel at home in our office, come and see for yourself. Call today to book your consultation and we will walk you through the entire process. You’ll be able to ask questions and Dr. Larsen will assess your facial structure and present your options. Often when patients are considering a cheek augmentation they like to bundle this procedure with other services for efficiency. Call today and come see what options might be best for you, and find out what a difference we can make for you.
Patient Photo Gallery
The before-and-after photos of Dr. Larsen’s actual patients showcase the kind of results he consistently achieves.
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Alan N. Larsen, MD.
Double Board-Certified Atlanta Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Larsen established Buckhead Plastic Surgery as a boutique practice to offer world-class, personalized service to women and men throughout the Southeast. Dr. Larsen’s compassion and talent are complemented by his elite training with some of the nation’s finest plastic surgeons.
Alan N. Larsen, MD.Double Board-Certified Atlanta Plastic SurgeonDr. Larsen established Buckhead Plastic Surgery as a boutique practice to offer world-class, personalized service to women and men throughout the Southeast. Dr. Larsen’s compassion and talent are complemented by his elite training with some of the nation’s finest plastic surgeons.
