As we age, most of us experience some degree of deflation in the mid face area. Because strong, high, and rounded cheekbones are the hallmark of a youthful face, we frequently consult with people about how to correct volume loss. The easy answer is that dermal filler product can be injected into the cheeks to bring more contour into the area. The more in-depth answer is not quite so simple.

There is no denying that cheek augmentation can have a profoundly rejuvenating effect on the face. The question is, how should you go about it? In our Denver office, patients may consider the pros and cons of cheek implants, fat injections, and dermal fillers.

What are Cheek Implants?

Cheek implants are small prosthetics that are made out of biocompatible materials such as solid silicone, expanded polytetrafluoroethy (Gore-Tex), or high-density polyethylene (Medpor). The most commonly used implants are the solid silicone type. These prosthetics differ from breast implants in density. While breast implants are more fluid (even the form-stable types), facial implants are firmer and more robust, which means they will not leak.

There are two types of cheek implant, malar, and submalar.

• Malar implants are inserted over the cheekbone to increase volume and projection toward the side of the face.
• Submalar cheek implants are inserted in a proper position in the mid-face to increase the roundness of the cheek.
• The combination cheek implant augments both the higher, outer cheekbone and the mid-face.

The number of cheek implant procedures performed has decreased over the years as injectable solutions have become available. Perhaps the strongest contender as an alternative to the silicone implant is fat grafting.

Injections for Contoured Cheeks

Dermal fillers and fat transfer injections work similarly to augment the cheek area. Each introduces a biological agent to increase the roundness and projection of the cheeks. However, dermal fillers are a temporary solution whereas fat transfer can last indefinitely. The detail to remember about fat transfer is that the effects of treatment eventually succumb to the natural aging process. Repeat treatment or rejuvenation with dermal fillers can be safely performed after initial fat transfer.

Fat transfer harvests a small amount of fat from an area such as the thighs or abdomen. Fat cells are then injected into the cheeks in just the right position to enhance contours without altering the natural appearance of the face. Some fat will get absorbed after injections, but the majority of injected cells integrates into existing tissue for long-lasting results.

Fante Eye & Face Center has solutions to help you look and feel your best. Contact our Denver office at (303) 839-1616 to schedule your consultation.

With the popularity of cosmetic fillers, it has become easy to assume that ideal facial symmetry is just a syringe away. We can’t argue the fact that synthetic fillers, and even fat grafting, are exceptional forms of facial rejuvenation. The thing is, not everyone who seeks such treatment does so to correct the normal signs of aging on their face. In our Denver office, we also perform facial contouring with solid silicone or porous polyethylene plastic implants for various parts of the face.

Who is a good candidate for facial implants?

Facial implants are suitable for the patient who is generally healthy and interested in the long-term correction of facial asymmetries in the cheeks, lips, jawline, or temple area. In addition to being a longer-lasting solution than even the best dermal filler, one of the notable advantages of facial implants is that each enhances the actual physical structure of the face. By adding solid yet supple structure, a facial implant can add dimension to the face that has been lost, or that never existed. For this reason, implants are well-suited to individuals whose anatomical structure never reached a state at which contours developed.

What Various Facial Implants Do

• Chin implants add projection and angles to the jawline.
• Jaw implants add symmetry by widening the lowest bony structure of the face. Thus, the jawline becomes more defined and angular.
• Cheek implants are an excellent long-term solution for recessed, hollow, and flattened cheeks.

Facial implants are a safe and efficient treatment for enhancing the face in a more dramatic and long-lasting way. Because there are risks associated with cosmetic surgery, it is best to obtain information and treatment regarding facial implants from a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who has extensive familiarity not only with facial anatomy but with the nuances of various facial implants.

As a facial and oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Fante has a comprehensive educational background and decades of experience in the use of facial implants. Learn more about how we can help you enjoy better facial symmetry and, as a result, feel more confident in your appearance. Call (303) 839-1616 to schedule your visit.