The surgical procedure of cheek implants, is increasingly in demand in modern plastic and cosmetic surgery.
The process is designed to flesh out the structure of the face, redefine the jaw line and strengthen a weak chin or lower facial area in order to give a more symmetrical and balanced appearance to the overall facial area. Raising the cheekbones to give much smoother lines to the face is another desired effect of this type of cosmetic surgery.
Often, through natural ageing of the bone structure or genetic weakness in the lower part of the face, the appearance can seem gaunt or drawn. Cheek and chin implants can also be used as a corrective if the flesh of the cheek and chin area have atrophied or been damaged through accident or severe illness.
After an in-depth pre-operative discussion with the surgeon, the implants are delicately inserted into the areas of the face, which would best achieve the look desired by the patient.
The process of augmentation will usually take up to two hours, and is performed under anaesthesia. Dependent on the circumstances of the patient, an overnight hospitalisation is often recommended.
Some swelling and bruising will be inevitable immediately after the operation, but medication will relieve any distress. Recovery will begin almost immediately, and a return to all normal activities usually takes up to two weeks. However, the patient will be advised to avoid any strenuous activity during this period. Regular monitoring will follow as a natural course.