Questions? Cheek implants consultation
During your consultation your surgeon will take a general medical history and ask about any previous surgery or sinus infections. He will also want to discuss your goals for the procedure and how much increased prominence over the cheek, around the lower eyelid and in the mid cheek area you desire.
He will determine whether your facial structure makes you a good candidate for malar augmentation surgery, and he'll explain why trying to over-emphasise the cheekbones usually results in an artificial and unsatisfactory appearance. In general, the aim of the procedure is to retain a natural facial shape but enhance the definition.
You'll also discuss the wide variety of implants available and decide what type, design and size are appropriate for you. The implants most commonly used by our practice are semirigid ones, which, once implanted, feel as natural as the bones of your face.
What to expect from cheek implants operation
Although malar augmentation is usually performed under a general anaestheic, it can be done as a day case. Incisions are made on the inside of the mouth so there are no external scars. The implants are then fixed in position and the wounds closed.
A more limited malar augmentation can be accomplished using fat transfer. It is also possible to correct a significant asymmetry between the two cheekbones by using implants complemented by fat transfer.
Recovering after cheek implants surgery
For the first four or five days after your procedure you will need a soft diet to protect the wounds inside your mouth.
Please be aware that:
- For your safety, you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night after your procedure.
- If you experience discomfort this can be eased by taking a mild analgesic such as Paracetamol. Aspirin must be avoided as it can promote bleeding.
- Usually you'll have your first checkup visit one week after your operation. At that visit the surgeon will inspect the wounds inside your mouth to ensure that healing is progressing well.
- You should avoid returning to exercise for two to three weeks after the operation, as it can trigger swelling in your face.
- After your surgery, it is possible to brush your teeth with a gentle toothbrush from day one, and it is advisable to use antiseptic mouthwash four times a day for a least for the first week.
- The operation is usually not associated with this significant bruising but swelling can be moderate to significant. Gently massaging your cheeks can help relieve the swelling.
- It is also important to sleep with a couple of pillows for the first two weeks to accelerate your recovery.
