We are fortunate
to have a self-imaging computer at your disposal during
your consultation allowing us to project your area(s)
of concern on the screen. Various options of structure
change can be added or erased! This is a wonderful opportunity
to get an “idea” of how cheek implants would
harmonise your facial structure.
Cheek implants are silicone
plastic shapes designed to rest on the patient’s
own cheekbones. These are usually inserted via a small
incision inside the mouth. There is therefore no visible
external scarring.
Collagen injections can be
used if a small increase is required. Unfortunately
collagen is gradually absorbed by the body and top-up
injections will be necessary at intervals.
With autologous fat implants,
the patient’s own fat can be used to augment
the cheek. The donor fat can be taken from the abdomen,
thigh, neck, etc. and injected through a wide bore
needle into the cheek area. This procedure is not
permanent but seems to last longer than collagen.
Post-operative problems are
uncommon, but the following complications can occur.
A full discussion with your consulting surgeon is
advised. Cheek implants can move out of position to
give an asymmetrical appearance to the face. This
is more likely to happen during the early post-operative
phase. Infection can also occur in the post-operative
period. The implant has to be removed and the infection
effectively treated before re-insertion.
Finally, cheek implants can
produce a dramatic improvement in suitable cases and
the result is permanent. Higher cheekbones tend to
make people more photogenic. Collagen injections and
fat transfer produce more subtle effects that slowly
change back with time unless kept ‘topped-up’.
