Sunken cheeks - Are there any long-lasting dermal fillers available?

Having used both restylane and perlane, with passable results, I am now searching for something longer lasting. A filler that lasts longer than 6 months ?

I lack ''fullness'' in the face, especially around the nasal folds, I would describe it as ''sunken'. Should I consider a sculptured effect and have the Dr. '' fill out'' the sunken look, by filling out the cheek area to ''lift'' the folds ? Sadly, fat implants are not an option here.

It's so confusing, and even though you do the research, you are still left wondering which product ! I have also had 2 sessions with fraxel laser, which, truthfully did not do what I expected. I am slim petite frame and face, and coming up to the big 50 I just feel I look gaunt. Hope this gives you clear picture. Its not easy to describe oneself, and of course I have to temper my expectations ! Miracle cure, I live in hope. Thank you for your time.

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6 answers to “Sunken cheeks - Are there any...”

A: Consider fillers a "trial" - you may want malar implants

Michael A. Bogdan, MD

If you were happy with the results of injectables and used them to achieve full cheeks, it might be wise to consider malar implants.  Cheek implants augment the bone structure of your midface and both add volume and strength to your malar region.  For patients who are unsure about malar implants, I... more

A: Fat injections or silicone implants can give you the volume you desire in the cheek

Philip Young, MD

Sunken cheeks is a natural aging process.  When you age you lose fat in your cheeks and this can lead to your tissues descending, wrinkles developing, folds developing, lower eyelid fat protruding, eyelid bags, etc.  Dermal fillers like restylane, juvederm, radiesse, perlane, are temporary and last... more

A: Combining fillers with surgery for sunken cheeks

Steven Wallach, MD

There are many options to improve your problem. First, I will say that no one thing is perfect; and second, I would not overdo the fillers or the surgery. However, combining a little surgery with some filler whether it is autologous like fat grafting or absorbable like Sculptra, Radiesse, or any of the... more

A: Fat Grafting Can be Ideal for Sunken Cheeks

Michael Law, MD

My Raleigh, North Carolina Plastic Surgery Practice I use Fat Grafting to treat sunken cheeks.  There are  a number of 'soft tissue fillers' are available for temporarily improving facial areas that have lost volume or have developed deep lines and creases. Probably the most popular fillers... more

A: Alternate Options - Cheek Implant ot Fat Injections

Kamran Jafri, MD

Hello in Hong Kong, Execellent answers to your questions from Dr. Lupo. As a Surgeon I did want discuss two other options that you may find helpful. You mentioned that fat implants are "not an option here".  Is that for medical reasons or lack of experienced provider?  For discussions sake,... more

A: There are filler options that last longer

Mary Lupo, MD

Mid-cheek atrophy can make you look gaunt and tired. Patients often feel that their face looks sunken and that the cheeks appears to sag. I have found very good longevity with Juvederm Ultra Plus to correct this problem. It must be injected under the muscle and angled so the cheek is raised... more

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