Cheek Augmentation

A full mid-cheek with a prominent ogee curve is a sign of youthfulness. As we age, however, the cheeks lose their volume and start to sag. Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that aims to rejuvenate the cheeks’ youthfulness by restoring the ogee curve and enhancing the cheek bones.

Patients from their mid-thirties onwards are prime candidates for cheek augmentation.

There are three methods for cheek augmentation:

Filler injection

The simplest minimally invasive method of cheek augmentation is through filler injection. This technique involves inserting a thin tube called a cannula into the mid-cheek. Usually around 1mL of filler is injected into the prezygomatic space. This is a space that is just above the cheek bone. Hence, there are less blood vessels there. Therefore, incidences of bruising are less common.

Results tend to last for around 1 year. Typically, patients apply a special numbing cream for 10-15 minutes. The procedure takes around 15 minutes to complete. Downtime for this procedure is usually minimal.

Fat injection

Fat injection is a popular choice for mid-cheek rejuvenation. Here, fat is harvested either from the thighs or tummy and injected using a micro-cannula into the mid-cheek. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and takes around 1 hour to complete.

Downtime is usually around 1 week, by which time bruising and swelling should have subsided. As the fat comes from the patient’s own body, there is no chance of rejection and survival of the fat tends to be for a very long time.

Cheek implants

Cheek implants can be inserted via small cuts either within the eyelids or though the inside of the mouth. Implants are usually made of silicone and may be shaped and customized according to the patient’s features. This procedure is typically performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Procedure time is 1-2 hours.

For incisions through the eyelid, patients can expect slight tearing for 2-3 days. Special eyedrops will be prescribed for the patient. Bruising and swelling will last for at least 1-2 weeks. For incision through the mouth, patients are expected to be on soft diet for 1-2 weeks with special mouthwash to be used during that time. These implants tend to be permanent in nature and do not need to be replaced with time.

Dr Leo Kah Woon is well-versed in the best practices of Cheek Augmentation surgery in Singapore. He is often invited to speak at numerous regional and international medical conferences where he trains and shares his experience on plastic and reconstructive surgery with other doctors. Call +65 6733 3895 today to find out more.