I have swelling after Cheek Implant Removal. How long would the swelling normally last?

Question

8 months after having medium malar cheek implants inserted, I had them removed 10 days ago in addition to a small amount of fat transfer done to my lower cheeks. 1. How long would the swelling normally last? My left cheek and left side of upper lip are still numb. 2. The 2 areas where the malar implants were are still a bit "puffy"- is that normal? How long would it take for skin to re-drape over cheekbone? Thank you.

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

It is normal to have some swelling 10 days after removal of cheek implants.  The fat transfer you had would also cause some additional swelling.  It can take several weeks to a few months for the swelling to resolve so you won't be able to see the full result of the removal until that occurs.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Curious_Inquirer,

It is very common following cheek
implant removal to have prolonged swelling of the cheek and side of the
face.  This swelling may persist for
weeks or months but should ultimately resolve. 
If there is persistent swelling, sometimes a soft tissue ultrasound can
determine if there is any removable collection of fluid under the skin, called a
seroma, but this is uncommon.

Numbness of one or both halves of
the upper lip may occur due to stretching of the nerve that provides sensation
to this part of the lip.  It is generally
going to resolve in six to nine months.

The best course of action is to
seek the advice of your operative physician, as they are in the best position
to assess appropriate normal wound healing. 
Generally, over time, most of these postoperative concerns will resolve.

I trust this information is of some
assistance and best of luck.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

I have swelling after Cheek Implant Removal. How long would the swelling normally last?

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I have swelling after Cheek Implant Removal. How long would the swelling normally last?

Answers (2)

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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.