What can I do about lack of volume in cheeks? (Photos)

Even at a healthy weight and with great skincare, genetics and bone structure can create early volume loss or tired-looking eyes. If you’re not interested in filler and want fuller cheeks and a refreshed look when you smile, lipografting is an ideal option.
This is a technique I’ve pioneered and refined over decades — using your own fat to restore natural, long-lasting volume and bring balance back to the face.

To enhance cheek volume and achieve a fuller, more refreshed appearance without the use of fillers, consider the following options:

Facial Exercises: Engaging in targeted facial exercises can help tone the muscles in your cheeks, potentially enhancing their appearance over time. Exercises like cheek lifts or puffing your cheeks with air can promote muscle strength.

Skincare Regimen: Incorporating a robust skincare routine with products that boost collagen production, such as those containing retinoids or peptides, can improve skin texture and elasticity, contributing to a fuller look.

Microcurrent Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles, promoting a lifted and toned appearance. It can enhance the natural contours of your face over time.

Hydration and Nutrition: Maintaining a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and proteins can support skin health and overall facial fullness. Staying well-hydrated also helps maintain skin plumpness.

Ultrasound or Radiofrequency Treatments: Non-invasive treatments like Ultherapy or Thermage use energy to stimulate collagen production, which can gradually improve skin firmness and volume.

Dermal Needling: Also known as microneedling, this technique stimulates collagen production and can enhance skin texture and firmness, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

These alternatives can help achieve the desired aesthetic without resorting to fillers, enhancing your natural beauty while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin - Winnetka & Chicago. This is a great question. Given your concerns about tired appearance and a desire for full, round cheeks when smiling—despite being young, healthy, and maintaining good lifestyle habits—it's likely that genetics and facial bone structure are playing a significant role in your facial volume and contour. In cases like this, I recommend injecting dermal filler to restore volume in the midface, particularly the cheeks, which can enhance facial symmetry, lift the under-eye area, and create a more refreshed, youthful look without altering your natural expressions. Carefully placed filler can subtly support the underlying structure, helping to reduce shadows and the appearance of tiredness while giving you the rounder cheek contour you’re aiming for. I hope this helps and best of luck!