If you feel your cheekbones are too flat or out of proportion with the rest of your face, cheek implants can improve your ‘bone structure’ by making the cheekbones look fuller and higher. Cheek implant surgery is sometimes performed at the same time as other cosmetic surgery procedures such as a facelift to reshape the face and maximize the results of surgery.
About the cheek implant procedure
Cheek implant surgery builds on your existing bone structure by placing an implant over the top of your cheekbones. The implant is usually inserted through an incision made inside your mouth where your cheek joins your upper gum. This technique means there will be no visible scarring. Sometimes the implant may be inserted 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. Sometimes it is necessary to use a bone graft, usually taken from the hip. If a bone graft is used there will be some scarring in the area the graft is taken from. Your consultant surgeon will discuss this with you prior to your operation.
Cheek implant surgery can be performed under general anaesthetic, which means you will be asleep during the procedure, or under local anaesthetic when the area will be numb but you will be awake. You’ll usually be able to return home later the same day, and will need to plan time off work to rest and recover.
All operations carry risks as well as benefits. The chance of complications following this procedure depends on the type of operation and other factors such as your general health.
As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important that you review your expectations thoroughly before you decide to proceed. Your consultant surgeon will explain the results you can expect, and will discuss the associated risks and alternatives to the procedure before going ahead.
With Spire Healthcare you will see a consultant of your choice at a time that suits you. You will be treated in a premium private hospital, not a clinic, and you can be assured of our commitment to healthcare standards and infection control excellence.