Cheek Augmentation (Implants)



Whether you want heightened and well-formed cheekbones like the ones you had when you were young, or you've never had well-defined cheekbones, cheek implants may produce a dramatic change. For many people, cheek implants can provide new facial contours and dimensions to bring facial features into better balance.

Cheek implants are made in various shapes and sizes. They are made out of both solid and semi-solid materials that have been used successfully for years. If you're considering cheek implants, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the procedure. For more detailed information about how this procedure may help you, we recommend that you consult a plastic surgeon who is board certified or has completed a residency program that includes training in cheek implant procedures.


*The national average cost of cheek implant is approximately $2,778.

Malarplasty is a medical term used to describe Cheek Implants.

Cheek Augmentation is a procedure with permanent results.









  2. How is the procedure performed?
  3. How long does the procedure take?
  4. Will I need to stay in a hospital?
  5. How much pain is there?
  6. What can I expect after surgery?
  7. What is the recovery period like?
  9. Ideal Candidate:
  10. Other Important Information:
  11. Risks


What are some of the most common benefits of cheek augmentation surgery?

This surgery can enhance facial contours and brings balance to the facial features. It is also used to correct asymmetries and congenital defects.

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How is cheek augmentation performed?

When cheek implant surgery is performed in conjunction with other facial procedures, the implants may be inserted through the incisions used for that procedure. If cheek implant surgery is performed by itself, incisions are either made at the top of the upper lip, near the gums, or on the outer cheek, slightly below the lower eyelid. The implant of the size and shape that the surgeon has selected is then inserted through these incisions into a pocket created in the tissue. In some cases, a small titanium screw is used to attach the implant to the bone. The implants are placed on or below the cheekbones and the incisions are closed with sutures that the body absorbs. At the conclusion of the surgery the skin is dressed to reduce swelling.

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How long does the procedure take?

The surgery generally takes from 30 to 45 minutes.

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Will I need to stay in a hospital?

This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. A hospital stay is sometimes necessary when cheek implant surgery is performed in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures.

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How much pain is there?

The amount of pain depends on the method used, and varies from person to person. Local anesthetic is used to reduce pain during the surgery.

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What can I expect after surgery?

The treated area may feel tight, swollen, and uncomfortable in the days following the surgery. Pain medication may be used to lessen discomfort. Movement of the mouth may initially be difficult. Your surgeon should give you information on post-operative care, including limits on physical activities and diet. If incisions are made inside the mouth, you may be placed on a liquid diet for several days until there is adequate healing to allow for chewing and food particles to come in contact with the stitches.

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What is the recovery period like?

Stitches in the mouth dissolve in approximately 10 days. Swelling also subsides quickly, but this varies, particularly if cheek implants were performed in conjunction with another surgery.

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What is the long-term outcome like for most people?

Due to swelling, the results of the surgery may not be plainly visible for as long as three to four months. Scars are generally well hidden.

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Ideal Candidate:

In general, the best candidates for chin augmentation are people who are:

  • In good physical health
  • Psychologically stable
  • Wanting to add definition to the face, especially the upper face
  • Understanding the healing process
  • Understanding the limitations of the procedure
  • No known allergies to the implant material used
  • Having realistic expectations for the outcome


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Other Important Information:

Cheek implant surgery is often performed in conjunction with a facelift. Chin augmentation is another procedure used to balance the face.

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Significant complications resulting from chin implants are infrequent. As with any surgical procedure, however, there is always a possibility of infection, or reaction to the anesthesia.

When infection does occur it is generally treated with antibiotics, but in some cases this is not successful and it must be removed and later replaced. Another risk is improper placement. In some cases, implants may shift so that a second operation is necessary for repositioning. In rare cases, nerve damage may occur.

You can help minimize certain risks by following your plastic surgeon's instructions, both before and after your surgery

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