Thank you for your question. It is always important to make an informed decision and find a provider you are comfortable to help you make that informed decision. Filler has come a long ways and can last almost 2 years. Every patient is different and some need more volume than others to achieve the look you are wanting. You are right though once you place an implant it is permanent and it is a major surgery. Most of my patients are very happy with voluma in the mid face as it does create a nice lifted appearance in the cheekbones, nasolabial folds and sometimes the jowls if placed correctly. If you have never received a treatment like this i would highly recommend fillers first as they can be reversed and you can always add more volume to get the desired look you are going for. Good luck with your choice.
Hi there-
Thank you for sharing your photos. Some swelling is definitely normal as you've had fillers before. I would suggest contacting your provider expressing your concern. Also consider taking an anti-histamine such as Zyrtec, and keep them hydrated so they don't split you don't need to get a secondary infection.