What is the difference between cheek implants and a cheek augmentation and how would either affect my appearance? (photos)

Question

Do I need cheek implants or augmentation? What's the difference? How will cheeks affect someone appearance.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Cheek augmentation is a broader term that refers to enhancing the shape, volume, and contour of the cheeks. This can be achieved in different ways:

Cheek implants: These are solid implants surgically placed over the cheekbone to create long-lasting definition and projection. They are best for patients who want a more permanent and structural enhancement.

Cheek augmentation with fillers or fat transfer: This involves adding volume with injectable fillers (like hyaluronic acid) or using your own fat to achieve a softer, more natural fullness. These methods are less invasive but typically temporary, depending on the technique.

Cheeks play a major role in overall facial harmony. Defined, full cheeks can make the face look more youthful, balanced, and lifted, while flat or hollow cheeks may contribute to a tired or aged appearance.

Whether implants or non-surgical augmentation is more suitable depends on your desired longevity, the degree of volume loss or definition you want corrected, and your comfort with surgery versus minimally invasive treatments.

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. Cheek augmentation is a generic term that encompasses implants, fillers, fat grafting, or potentially other means of making the cheeks appear bigger. Your photos show a submalar volume deficiency--there are specific types of implants that are used to correct this volumetric imbalance. Implants are permanent and require no maintenance. Alternatively, fillers or fat grafting are performed as injections. There are pros/cons to each that you could discuss during consultation to see which is right for you.

Best,
Dr. Tower

Best,
Dr. Tower

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. Cheek implants and cheek augmentation are both cosmetic procedures designed to enhance the appearance of the cheeks, but they differ in their approach and impact. Cheek implants involve surgically placing silicone or other biocompatible materials into the cheek area to create a more defined and prominent cheekbone structure. This option offers a permanent solution with a significant alteration in facial contour, ideal for those seeking dramatic enhancement. Cheek augmentation, on the other hand, often utilizes injectable fillers like hyaluronic acid or fat grafting to add volume and lift to the cheeks non-surgically. This method provides a more subtle, temporary change and allows for gradual adjustments based on the desired effect. While implants deliver a permanent and pronounced change, augmentation offers a less invasive option with temporary results that can be adjusted over time, affecting the overall balance and proportion of the face in different ways. I hope this helps and best of luck!

What is the difference between cheek implants and a cheek augmentation and how would either affect my appearance? (photos)

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