A great way to prevent fat pads in the cheek area from falling is to use soft tissue fillers in the area over time. Juvederm Voluma is FDA approved for cheek augmentation and has been shown to last 2 years. Another option for long term results is Sculptra. It is placed deep, under the fat pads, to add volume to an aging face. This too lasts 2 years or longer and leads to a very natural-looking rejuvenation.
Some people respond ideally to neurotoxin in and around the mouth. In younger patients, l like a small amount of neurotoxin in the upper lip to relax and flip out a fuller lip. Keep in mind that this is off label and should be done carefully as it can weaken the ability to form a tight seal with your lips. Once deep lines have set in and the lip has lengthened and thinned, neurotoxin in this area may not be ideal. Botox can also be injected into the lateral lip depressors for those patient who have downturned lips, but also into the chin for patients who have a bumpy chin. This too is off label and can lead to a crooked smile if not performed correctly.
