Age 30 - Cheeks seem to be a bit droopy and lost their fullness (photo)

Question

Hello. Here is an expanded question to my first previous question. I’ve never had any fillers, Botox or any other injections or procedures done. I’ve always had chubby cheeks growing up and now that I am 30 they seemed to be a bit droopy and lost their fullness. I dont think buccal fat removal is for me, I don’t want that. Can a professional please help me find the best procedure so I can slim and tighten my face permanently, at least till I’m in my 50s.

Ali Riza Öreroglu, MD · Answer

For patients in their 30s experiencing cheek sagging and volume loss, the most effective and long-lasting solution is a deep plane facelift surgery. This surgical technique lifts the deep tissues of the mid and lower face in an anatomically natural way, providing a youthful, firm, and balanced appearance. During the same surgery, fat grafting (fat injection)can be performed to restore volume in areas such as the cheekbones, upper cheeks, and under-eye hollows. Additionally, bichectomy (buccal fat removal) can be done in the same operation to slim the lower face and define the jawline more clearly. This combined approach rejuvenates and reshapes the face effectively. However, since every face is unique, a thorough in-person physical examination is essential to create the most appropriate and personalized treatment plan.

Ali Cetinkaya, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your detailed explanation. You mentioned that your cheeks have always been naturally full, but now at 30, they seem to have lost volume and appear slightly droopy. You are looking for a long-term solution to achieve a slimmer and more defined facial structure without undergoing buccal fat removal. Since you have never had any fillers, Botox, or other cosmetic procedures, it's important to consider both surgical and non-surgical options.
Why Are Your Cheeks Changing?1️⃣ Natural Aging & Facial Fat Redistribution
Having fuller cheeks in youth is common, but as we age, fat pads shift, volume decreases, and skin elasticity reduces, leading to sagging.
In your 30s, early signs of facial aging, such as mild cheek descent and loss of definition in the jawline, can start to appear.
2️⃣ Why Buccal Fat Removal May Not Be the Best Choice for You
Buccal fat removal removes fat from the lower cheek area permanently, which can create a hollow or overly sharp look in the long run.
Since your concern is mild sagging and loss of fullness rather than excess bulk in the lower cheeks, this procedure is likely not the right fit for your goals.
The Best Long-Term Procedures for a Slimmer, Tighter FaceIf you are looking for a solution that will last until your 50s and beyond, the following procedures can help:
1️⃣ Deep Plane or SMAS Facelift (For Long-Lasting Lift & Contouring)

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. You will benefit fom a limited cheek lift procedure. This can be done using threads or a small incision. The latter would give you a longer lasting and more pronounced result. Please find an experienced board certified Plastic Surgeon who can examine you and help you with all your concerns. All the best!

Nashielli Torres Espinosa Chiu, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! It’s great that you’re seeking a tailored solution to address your concerns. From what you’ve described, it’s possible that mild laxity in the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), which is the underlying muscular structure of the face, could be contributing to the drooping appearance you’ve noticed.
In cases like yours, a mini-lift can be an excellent option. This procedure focuses on tightening the SMAS and repositioning the facial tissues to restore a more youthful, lifted contour, all while maintaining a natural look. A mini-lift is particularly effective for individuals in their 30s and 40s who are starting to see early signs of facial laxity but don’t yet need a full facelift.
That said, every face is unique, and the ideal procedure depends on a thorough evaluation of your anatomy and goals. Some patients may benefit from non-surgical options, such as skin-tightening treatments or minimally invasive procedures, while others may see more dramatic and lasting results with a surgical approach like a mini-lift.
We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your aesthetic goals!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no "permanent" solution to aging except death, and that is not desired. You would do well with micro-needling with radiofrequency to help tone and tighten your skin.

Age 30 - Cheeks seem to be a bit droopy and lost their fullness (photo)

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