Cheek augmentation is a common procedure to bring balance to the facial structure by correcting a deficient cheek area due to congenital deficiency, age-related bone resorption, or facial trauma.

A weak cheek structure can make your face appear drawn and gaunt. It may also give the appearance of a "fleshy" lower face. Cheek deficiency can make the bulges under the eyes more prominent.

The skilled surgeons at the Duke Aesthetics Center help provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.

Procedure Details

An incision will be made in the lower eyelid or inside the mouth, the implant situated directly on top of the cheek bone (or if need be, right below it) and checked for the proper "look" suitable for the patient's features.

It is possible that it may be removed and further customized several times during the operation. The implant may be sutured or screwed into place.

The surgery takes up to two hours and is an outpatient procedure.

Recovery

Following a cheek augmentation, you will have swelling and bruising.

You will have to take it easy and sleep on two pillows to keep your head elevated for seven to 14 days -- or however long your surgeon suggests.

When you wake up you will notice that your face will look even more swollen in the first three days. As the days go on the swelling will dissipate.

There may be bruising, but this will go away within two weeks.

You will more than likely experience this discomfort for several weeks -- and having had intraoral incisions your diet may be restricted.

Even though you may feel better, you must take it easy for the first three weeks. Be careful not to bend over or lift heavy objects.

How Long Will the Results Last?

Synthetic implants stay permanently. Your face may still age over time around the implants. Fat grafts may partially reabsorb or completely disappear over time.

Risks

With cheek implants the risk of bacterial infection is possible. You should immediately notify your surgeon if you see any discolored or foul smelling drainage.

If you develop a postoperative infection with a synthetic implant the implant must be removed, the infection dealt with, and then you must wait for several months before an additional surgery can be performed to re-implant. Infections usually occur within the first few weeks.

Physicians

Physicians offering this service include:

• Hollenbeck, Scott T.
  • Surgery / Plastic Max & Oral Surgery
• Levinson, Howard
  • Surgery / Plastic Max & Oral Surgery
  • Pathology
• Woodard, Charles R.
  • Surgery / Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
• Zenn, Michael R.
  • Surgery / Plastic Max & Oral Surgery

Locations

This service is available at:

• Duke Aesthetic Center
  3475 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705