Sunken area in cheek it has become larger over time, what can be done? (Photos)

Question

What can be done to make it smooth look natural?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Sunken areas in the cheek can be concerning and may result from various causes such as aging, weight loss, trauma, or medical conditions. Here are some steps and options that can be considered to address and improve the appearance of sunken cheeks:

### 1. **Medical Evaluation:**
   - **Consult a Physician:** The first step should be to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of the sunken cheeks. This could be a primary care physician, a dermatologist, or a plastic surgeon.
   - **Medical History and Examination:** A thorough medical history and physical examination will help in understanding whether the issue is due to natural aging, weight loss, illness, or another underlying condition.

### 2. **Non-Surgical Treatments:**
   - **Dermal Fillers:** Injectable fillers like hyaluronic acid (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane) can add volume to the sunken areas, providing a smoother and more natural appearance. The results are temporary and may last from six months to two years depending on the type of filler used.
   - **Fat Transfer:** Also known as fat grafting, this procedure involves taking fat from another part of your body (e.g., abdomen or thighs) and injecting it into the cheeks. This can provide a more permanent solution compared to fillers.
   - **Collagen Stimulators:** Products like Sculptra stimulate the body’s collagen production, gradually restoring volume over time. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.

### 3. **Surgical Options:**
   - **Cheek Implants:** For a more permanent solution, cheek implants can be surgically placed to enhance the cheekbones and fill in sunken areas. This requires a more invasive procedure with a longer recovery time.
   - **Facelift:** In some cases, especially if aging is a significant factor, a facelift might be recommended to lift and tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of sunken cheeks.

### 4. **Lifestyle and Home Care:**
   - **Healthy Diet:** Ensure a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall skin health. Foods high in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain skin elasticity and health.
   - **Hydration:** Proper hydration is essential for skin health. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and plump.
   - **Skincare Routine:** Use quality skincare products that promote collagen production and skin hydration. Retinoids, peptides, and hyaluronic acid serums can be beneficial.

### 5. **Cosmetic Solutions:**
   - **Makeup Techniques:** Skillful application of makeup can help to contour and highlight the cheeks, giving the appearance of fuller, more defined cheekbones. Use highlighter on the cheekbones and a slightly darker shade below to create the illusion of depth and fullness.

### 6. **Follow-Up and Maintenance:**
   - **Regular Check-Ups:** Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor and maintain the results of any treatments.
   - **Maintenance Treatments:** Depending on the chosen treatment, maintenance sessions (e.g., repeat filler injections) may be necessary to preserve the desired appearance.

Addressing sunken cheeks involves identifying the underlying cause and exploring various treatment options ranging from non-surgical methods like fillers and fat transfer to surgical options like implants and facelifts. A combination of professional treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and cosmetic techniques can help achieve a smoother, more natural look. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific needs.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Up close photos are difficult to evaluate, generally. If you have an indentation involving your left cheek, depending on your examination, fillers may be considered. Microdroplets silicon 1000 injections may be considered for a permanent result, depending on your examination. Thank you for your question. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Tek Przylecki, MD, FACS · Answer

HelloThere are a number of treatments that can be performed to address volume loss in the cheek. The first question that should be answered is why this is occurring? Is it symmetric? Is it from past trauma? Volume loss occurs as we age and gravity and tissue quality changes take its toll. Both temporary and more permanent options exist, including filler injections (which are temporary), and fat grafting which is more permanent. I would recommend consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who can better guide you on your journey!Wishing you the best!

Susan Van Dyke, MD · Answer

With all of the fillers at our disposal it is now easier than ever to achieve a natural correction for a depression on the face. Experience with the various fillers allows me to customize the treatment for the specific needs of each patient. Of course, it is when you are seen in person that the plan emerges.

Jacquelline Leva, DO · Answer

Need front, side view, oblique view and farther away to really determine what you need. You can certainly try medium depth dermal filler like juvaderm to startThank you

Sunken area in cheek it has become larger over time, what can be done? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Filler is excellent to smooth out sunken cheeks.

Answer: Filler is excellent to smooth out sunken cheeks.

Answer: Need better photo

Answer: Need better photo

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cheek Fillers

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

Sunken area in cheek it has become larger over time, what can be done? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Filler is excellent to smooth out sunken cheeks.

Answer: Filler is excellent to smooth out sunken cheeks.

Answer: Need better photo

Answer: Need better photo

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Cheek Fillers

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