Cheek Implants in Metairie, LA
Our triple board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger, has helped countless patients in Metairie and the greater Louisiana communities with beautifully crafted cheek implants. He aims to provide natural, long-lasting results that harmonize with the patient’s facial structure and increase self-confidence.
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What Are
Cheek Implants?
Cheek implants, or malar augmentation, are a surgical procedure that involves the addition of volume and definition to the cheekbones to build the midface. In the procedure, Dr. Metzinger gently places solid, biocompatible implants beneath the cheek skin and muscle. He chooses the implants himself and custom-picks them based on each patient’s facial structure for balanced, natural-looking results.
This procedure aims to help people with sunken or flat cheeks look younger by restoring the curves of youth or giving them strong cheekbones. Cheek implants do not just fill lines temporarily; they provide lasting changes. This makes them ideal for patients who want a permanent solution to address volume loss or make their cheeks more symmetrical.
Cheek Implant Types
Malar Cheek Implants
Submalar Cheek Implants
Combined (Malar + Submalar) Implants
Merging malar and submalar augmentation offers an all-encompassing enhancement of the midface. Dual-purpose implants boost the upper cheekbones and restore volume to the lower cheeks. They are a great choice for those who have lost lots of midfacial volume or want total rejuvenation.
Implants vs. Dermal Fillers
Cheek Augmentation with Implants vs. Dermal Fillers
Cheek implants and dermal fillers boost the volume of the face. However, they vary in longevity, technique, and purpose.
Cheek implants are a surgical enhancement that lasts forever and gives distinct, long-lasting contours to the midface. They are good for patients who want a major structural change. It can help balance out an asymmetrical face or give those with naturally flat cheekbones some definition.
On the flip side, dermal fillers are non-invasive and employ injectable gels such as hyaluronic acid to add volume and raise the cheeks for a period of time. They are perfect for those who want modest enhancements without committing to a procedure that requires downtime. But effects usually last about 12–18 months and repeated treatments are necessary.
So, cheek implants provide lasting results but are invasive and require more downtime. Injectable fillers offer a more flexible option for those testing out facial volume changes.
Cheek Implant Procedure Explained
Initial Consultation and Testing
During the initial consultation, Dr. Metzinger evaluates how a patient’s face is shaped and talks with them in-depth about what they want to look like after surgery. Based on this information, he decides which cheek implants are best for the patient, including their shape and size. Additionally, our surgeon may recommend other facial procedures for total rejuvenation. Furthermore, Dr. Metzinger may take some pre-op pictures to guide the procedure, compare results post-op, and provide a cost estimate for the whole procedure.
After the consultation, patients will have a full medical check-up to make sure it is safe for them to have an operation. This will involve looking at their medical history, giving a physical examination, and doing tests such as blood tests and, if necessary, scans. Patients with certain conditions may not be eligible for surgery, such as:
- Active infections
- Bleeding disorders
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Chronic illness
- Smoking (if not discontinued)
Cheek Implants Surgery
- Marking and Anesthesia: Dr. Metzinger marks the implant placement areas on surgery day to guide precision. To ensure comfort during the procedure, he administers local anesthesia and light sedation.
- Incisions and Implant Placement: Next, our surgeon makes a small incision either inside the mouth (intraorally) or sometimes right below the lower eyelashes or along existing smile lines. Then, he puts the selected implant in place through this incision—positioning it precisely on or below the cheekbone as needed to meet the patient’s goals and achieve the desired result.
- Closing the Incisions: After the cheek implant is firmly positioned, he uses dissolvable sutures to close the incision. It usually takes between 1 and 2 hours to perform the entire procedure.
Add-On
Procedures
Chin Augmentation
Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery, medically referred to as blepharoplasty, addresses sagging eyelids, eliminates puffiness beneath the eyes, and smoothens out wrinkles near the eye area. By combining this procedure with cheek implants, patients may revitalize the mid to upper face and reduce overall signs of fatigue or aging. Together, these surgeries can produce a more lively visage. Cheek implants restore lost volume, while eyelid surgery gets rid of bagginess.
Recovery After Cheek Implant Surgery
Immediate Recovery
Following cheek implant surgery, patients are monitored in our cozy recovery area post-anesthesia. It is common to experience mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the cheeks. However, any discomfort can usually be managed with medication. Most patients are well enough to return home on the day of their procedure but will receive comprehensive advice about looking after the incision site and reducing swelling.
Initial Weeks
During the initial two to three weeks after the treatment, swelling will gradually go down. A patient may be told to sleep with their head raised in order to lessen puffiness in their face and to eat only soft foods if the incisions are inside his or her mouth. They should avoid vigorous exercise and anything that puts pressure on their face. During this time, we will arrange some check-up visits to make sure a patient is healing well. Any stitches will either be taken out by our surgeon or left to dissolve on their own.
Long Term-Results
The full effects of cheek implant surgery may not be apparent for three months, until all swelling has subsided. However, once this healing period is over, most patients find that the implants both look and feel completely natural. In fact, they provide a permanent method to enhance facial definition.
Who Should Consider
Cheek Implants?
Experience Age-Related Volume Loss
Desire More Defined Cheekbones
Seek Facial Rejuvenation
Cheek implants can be part of a comprehensive facial rejuvenation treatment plan, complementing other procedures, such as facelifts, brow lifts, or eyelid surgery, to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Wish to Improve Facial Symmetry
Want Long-Lasting Enhancement
In Good Physical Health
Non-Smokers or Willing to Quit Temporarily
To ensure optimal healing and reduce the chances of complications, it is important that patients undergoing surgery are not regular smokers or are prepared to quit a few weeks prior to the operation and to remain non-smokers during the recovery period.
Benefits of Cheek Implants
Cost of Cheek Implants
in Metairie, LA
Schedule Your Consultation with Aesthetic Surgical Associates Today
At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, we understand the importance of achieving natural-looking results that enhance your unique beauty. Our experienced plastic surgeon is dedicated to providing personalized care and ensuring your safety and satisfaction throughout the entire cheek augmentation process.
If you’re considering cheek implants or have any questions, schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and provide personalized recommendations to help you make an informed decision about your facial plastic surgery. Visit our office in Metairie, Louisiana, or call (504) 226-8200 to book an appointment today.