Cheek Implants and the Aging Process?

Question

I am 21 and am contemplating cheek implants. I dont want anything too drastic so I would be getting the small implants if I choose to get the procedure done. My question is, will they become more/ unnaturally visible as I age and the skin on my face naturally looses elasticity and fat? I wouldnt want to get them removed because I know that will cause the skin to sag and I dont want to depend on fillers too much later on.

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

As a Facial Plastic Surgeon, I currently use cheek implants far less than I once did.  The reason for this is that both autologous fat transfer and Sculptra (L-Poly Lactic Acid) are so effective in volumizing the face. In addition, as we age, we lose both soft tissue volume and bone volume in the face causing a relative descent of the implants.  The appearance of cheek implants changes with aging of the face, and have a tendency to age poorly.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Good question.  As long as u get small implants and your cheeks are slightly under developed there will not be a problem with aging.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The proper placement of cheek implants is underneath the periosteum of the maxilla.  When placed on  the bone, they feel like part of the cheek bone.  It is also very important not to overdo them.  We have 20 year follow-ups with patients whose implants look and feel great.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

As long as cheek implants are not oversized, they will not become obvious as the face ages. In some cases cheek implants may actually help to support the overlying tissues from sagging with aging. The key to cheek implants is getting the proper size and style so the effect is created without looking unnatural.

Kimberly Finder, MD · Answer

Full disclosure: I do not place cheek implants. I do fillers and Sculptra treatments to create cheek augmentation. These nonsurgical options can be very rewarding and can either be done instead of surgical implants, or to see if you like the results of a fuller cheek without going through a surgery, as a test-drive. 

	I have seen many women in their 50's and older who had cheek implants placed when they were younger. Sometimes their implants look unnatural as the aging progresses. The rest of the face begins to shrink, but the implant doesn't.

Cheek Implants and the Aging Process?

Answers (7)

Answer: The Influence of Cheek Implants on Facial Aging

Answer: The Influence of Cheek Implants on Facial Aging

Answer: Cheek implants and aging

Answer: Cheek implants and aging

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Everything you need to know about Cheek Implants

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Cheek Implants and the Aging Process?

Answers (7)

Answer: The Influence of Cheek Implants on Facial Aging

Answer: The Influence of Cheek Implants on Facial Aging

Answer: Cheek implants and aging

Answer: Cheek implants and aging

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cheek Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.