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The Scoop on Cheek Implants
Cheek implant surgery, clinically referred to as submalar/malar augmentation, is a cosmetic facial operation designed to bring youthfulness to the face. It entails placing implants inside the cheeks in order to enhance the line of the cheek bones; as a result, the contour of the face appears more attractive and better proportioned.
Cheek implants are viable options for those individuals who are dissatisfied with the overall proportion of their face and feel that it could be improved by the appearance of higher or more defined cheekbones, or cheeks that appear fuller and rounder.
The
Consultation
As with any cosmetic surgery, an initial consultation is necessary
in order to determine whether or not the patient is a good candidate for
cheek implants. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will address
the patient’s concerns and expectations. If the patient’s
vision is deemed realistic, the doctor will examine the cheeks and face,
ensure that the candidate is in good physical health, and inquire on the
patient’s medical history. If there are no severe risk factors that
would render the patient ineligible for the procedure, the surgeon will
discuss the implant options, explain the procedure in detail as well as
the anticipated overall results, and provide information on the recovery
period. Ideally, the plastic surgeon should answer all questions and issues
that the patient may have prior to surgery.
The Procedure
During the procedure, the patient is either sedated or under general anesthesia.
The surgeon will make an incision inside the mouth (the most common incision
site), under the eyelid, or behind the hairline in order to insert the
cheek implants. They may be stitched in place to prevent them from moving
around after the surgery is complete. The incision will be closed with
either regular or absorbable stitches, depending on its location. The
entire procedure can usually be completed within an hour and a half.
The Recovery
During the recovery period, the patient’s cheeks are typically sore
and swollen. The discomfort can usually be managed with pain medication,
and the swelling subsides over a period of several weeks. In most cases,
patients find it difficult to move their mouth to chew or speak. Although
the recovery period for submalar/malar augmentation may be quite uncomfortable,
the results of the surgery are long-lasting, and many feel that the outcome
is well worth the sacrifice. Most patients report that the cheek implants
eventually feel like a natural part of their face.
The Cost
The average cost of submalar/malar augmentation is around $3,000. This
cost will vary depending on the extent of the operation, the skill and
reputation of the surgeon of choice, as well as the geographical region
where the procedure takes place. If the surgery is performed as part of
a full facial overhaul, then the final cost may be substantially higher.
Because insurance does not cover the cost of facial implants, some surgeons
will offer financing options to make the cost of cosmetic procedures more
manageable for prospective candidates.
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