High, prominent cheekbones are one of the facial features most frequently associated with beauty. Today, this underlying facial structure can be created with implants.
Whether you want heightened and well-formed cheekbones like the ones you had when you were young, or you’ve never had well-defined cheekbones, cheek implants may produce a dramatic change. For many people, cheek implants can provide new facial contours and dimensions to bring facial features into better balance. Cheek implants are made in various shapes and sizes.
They are made out of different synthetic materials that have been used successfully for years. If you're considering cheek implants, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the procedure.
For more detailed information about how this procedure may help you, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Kremer.
Frequently asked questions about Facial Implants (Cheek Augmentation) by Dr. Michael A. Kremer:
This surgery can enhance facial contours and brings balance to the facial features. It is also used to correct asymmetries and congenital defects.
During the consultation, you and Dr. Kremer will discuss the changes that you would like to make in your appearance. He will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, its risks and limitations as well as the anesthesia required. You may also be able to view samples of implants and feel the differences in shape, size and consistency.
Be sure to as all the questions you have about the surgery. Learning everything you can about your options, risks and benefits is the key to making an informed decision.
When cheek implant surgery is performed in conjunction with other facial procedures, the implants may be inserted through the incisions used for that procedure. If cheek implant surgery is performed by itself, incisions are made inside the upper lip, near the gums. The implant of the size and shape that Dr. Kremer has selected is then inserted through these incisions into a pocket created in the tissue. The implants are placed on or below the cheekbones, it is being fixed with mini-screws made of titanium, and the incisions are finally closed with sutures that the body absorbs.
Surgery generally takes about 1-2 hours.
This procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis with postoperative monitoring generally less than 24 hours. A hospital stay is sometimes necessary when cheek implant surgery is performed in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures.
During the necessary general anesthesia, no pain is felt. Postoperatively, there is minimal pain or discomfort, mostly due to swelling. As implants are usually fixed, they cannot move which contributes to an almost pain free postoperative status.
The treated area may feel tight, swollen and uncomfortable in the days following the surgery and there will be temporary facial swelling. The upper lip may feel numbed up temporarily due to stretching of tissues and nerves. Pain medication may be used to lessen discomfort. Movement of the mouth may initially be difficult.
Dr. Kremer will give you detailed information on post-operative care, including limits on physical activities and diet. If incisions are made inside the mouth, you may be placed on a liquid diet for several days until there is adequate healing to allow for chewing and food particles to come in contact with the incisions.
Stitches in the mouth dissolve in approximately 10 days. Swelling also subsides quickly, but this varies, particularly if cheek implants were performed in conjunction with another surgery.
Most patients are really satisfied with the result of the procedure. Due to swelling, however, the results of the surgery may not be plainly visible for as long as three to four months. There are no visible scars and the incision in the mouth generally heals very well.
In general, the best candidates for cheek augmentation are people:
- In good physical health
- Psychologically stable
- Wanting to add definition to the face, especially the midface
- Understanding the healing process
- Understanding the limitations of the procedure
- No known allergies to the implant material used
- Having realistic expectations for the outcome
The above is only a partial list of the criteria that Dr. Kremer will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you. Be sure to ask Dr. Kremer if he considers you an ideal candidate for cheek implants.
Cheek implant surgery is often performed in conjunction with a facelift. Chin augmentation is another procedure used to balance the face.
Significant complications resulting from chin implants are infrequent. As with any surgical procedure, however, there is always a possibility of infection, or reaction to the anesthesia. This risk of infection can be minimized by the sterile and atraumatic surgical technique used and a short antibiotic prophylaxis. In case of an infection and unsuccessful antibiotic treatment implants must be removed and later replaced.
Another risk is implant displacement. In some cases, implants may shift so that a second operation is necessary for repositioning.
High, prominent cheekbones are one of the facial features most frequently associated with beauty. Today, this underlying facial structure can be created with implants. 
Tell Dr. Kremer about any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements)
