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Cheek implants
Some people feel that their cheekbones are too flat and out of proportion with the rest of their face. A surgical cheek implant can raise the cheekbones and harmonise facial features. Cheek implants are sometimes performed at the same time as a facelift.
The operation works by building on your existing bone structure, carefully inserting the implant over the top. Your plastic surgeon will usually insert the implant by making cuts inside your mouth where your cheek joins your upper gum, sliding the implant through these cuts. Another technique involves inserting the implant through a cut in the lower eyelid. The material used for the implant is usually silicone or another manufactured material that is tolerated well by the body. However, it is sometimes necessary to use a bone graft.
If the implant is inserted through the mouth, there is not usually a visible scar. However, if a bone graft is used there will be scarring in the area the graft is taken from - usually the hip - and your consultant surgeon will discuss this with you prior to your operation.
Cheek implant surgery may be performed under a local or general anaesthetic and you should be able to return home later the same day. You'll also need to plan time off work to rest and recover.
All operations carry risks as well as benefits. The chance of complications following cheek implants depends on the type of operation and other factors such as your general health. Your plastic surgeon will explain how the risks apply to you.
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