Cheek implants, small size? (Photos)

Question

A week post op and swelling has not subsided. I am completely swollen around nose and the swelling is really hard. It is very tight. I don't know if this will go away or if this is the actual implant placement. I am still sleeping upright hoping the swelling will go down. I am super worried this is the implant (bc its hard) and not just the swelling. Is it normal to have extremely hard cheeks a week afterwards? What can I do to make swelling and hardness go down?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello adyCheek implants are available in a range of different shapes and sizes, they are mostly customized to fit a specific facial structure. Fillers such as Juvederm Voluma, Radiesse and RestylaneLyft are great alternatives to cheek implants, also fat transfer or injection can be done.

Philip K. Robb Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question!Cheek implants are placed right on the bone. All of the tissues above the bone are gently lifted all around the midface and onto the lateral cheek region. This results in big time swelling that usually takes 2 weeks to subside. Complications can occur such as hematoma so if you are concerned, consulting with your surgeon is advisable. Hope this helps and God Bless!Dr. Robb

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  Your result looks great thus far.  You may always have some firmness when you press deeply on your cheek due to the implant.  The firmness depends on the type of implant use.  As the swelling subsides the tissues overlying the implant will soften.  Best wishes.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

You may want to convey your concerns to your surgeon who performed the procedure.  Hopefully the swelling will subside and the firmness and swelling will as well!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be typical after your procedure. I recommend following up with your Doctor about their after care protocol to help reduce swelling. Venus legacy treatment may give improvement. Dr. Emer

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

You are still early after your surgery.  Swelling can make the cheeks looks full and unnatural.  I would wait until the swelling resolves before you judge the final results.  If you remain concerned, I recommend following up with your Doctor. If you are still unhappy at that time, you could remove the implants and have filler placed in the area.  
I hope this helps.