Fat transfer for upper cheekbones?

Question

I am looking for a permanent solution to filler i got on my upper cheekbones. Naturally my cheekbones do not show at all and are very flat and I like the look of high cheekbones. A doctor mentioned fat transfer or grafting to this area is a permanent solution that will give the same structural look, but another said it won't create the same bone like effect. I also want something that would stick long term and not suddenly droop all the way down my face. Any other permanent solutions to this?

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

Fillers can be used to sculpt areas around the cheekbones ( malar emminence), but are temporary and correction is limited. Fat transfer can produce a better, more longlasting result, but it is difficult to create the prominence if it is missing. Cheek implants can be used to create a complete correction that is permanent . Different materials have been used over time, however I find solid silicone implants to be best. Cheek implants are a challenge to place correctly, and if they are malpositioned, asymmetry will be noticable. Correction can be obtained also with actual rearrangement of the bones, but this is much more extensive surgery.  Consult a surgeon experienced in using cheek implants.

Ali Riza Öreroglu, MD · Answer

Fat grafting can be used to augment and enhance the cheekbones. Implants can also be a good alternative. It will be best to consult a board certified facial plastic surgeon in person and discuss your goals and options after a physical examination.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Cheek bone deficiency (malar hypoplasia) is best treated with cheek bone augmentation with implants. This surgery is not significantly more elaborate then fat grafting in experienced hands of a board certified plastic surgeon and recovery time is similar. Cheek augmentation is going to provide stable, long lasting result. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with good reputation in facial implants is recommended. Good luck.

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

Fat transfer is one of my favorite procedures for facial volumization due to aging, but can still be unpredictable. If you have a bony deficiency, I would recommend a silicone cheek implant rather than fat transfer as it is more dependable and augments the bony structure much better.

Afshin Farzadmehr, MD · Answer

based on my 20 years of experience and 1000s of procedure performed, it is best for you to have an in person consultation for a assessment.  Facial fat transfer is ultimate art in restoring volume loss that the surgeon need to take into consideration future natural loss and expectations and have in my opinion 15 years of facial fat transfer experience to address many variables to give amazing results.  Not all surgeons are created equal nor have same experience in this field.  So choosing proper surgeon is key.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Fat can give irregular results even when done by a skilled surgeon. You would do better with silicone cheek implants. They are symmetrical and will give you a permanent result.

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. It is difficult to answer your question without examining you or seeing your photos. Fat transfer is a good option for permanent results however you may need more than one treatment. Alternatives include fillers some can last up to 2 to 3 years. It is best to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

Volume loss is a normal part of facial aging, and the newest trend in facial plastic surgery is to replace volume in the face, rather than pull it tighter. Oftentimes, the best option to replace volume is using your own fat, by transferring your own abdominal fat to volumize areas of the face, giving a fresh and glowing appearance. One advantage of fat grafting is the use of autologous natural fat can give permanent results. Fat is what gives the face it’s volume, and a youthful face has full cheeks and tear troughs. Aging, hormonal shifts, and weight loss can cause significant amounts of facial fat to be lost in these areas.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

facial fat transfer is in precise and unpredictable compared to fillers.  This is the major drawback and why so many of us still recommend staying with fillers.  With fillers you can add your large amount in a small space and what you see is what you get.  With grafting tissue these principles do not hold.  Grafting fat is better at giving diffuse overall volume.  Facial implants or another option that should not be discounted completely.  Before the advent of high-quality fillers and facial fat transfer techniques implants were used successfully and still are by many.  It's important to recognize that the primary problem is skeletal and not one of soft tissue deficits.  Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for the question and cheek implants placed via an incision inside the mouth is another permanent solution for cheek augmentation.  So go on some complimentary consultations with experts and compare recommendations after a full examination and discussion of desired results Dr Corbin

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Fat transfer for upper cheekbones?

Answers (11)

FACIAL FAT TRANSFER PROVIDERS NEAR YOU