Cheek Implants in Metairie, LA
At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, we provide cheek implants for patients looking to boost facial definition and regain plump, youthful cheeks. We can all generally find some part of our bodies that we would like to improve. While many of these areas can be changed through diet or exercise, there are some areas that just won’t respond and need some additional help. Age, genetic factors, and weight changes may all play a part in giving someone ill-defined or saggy cheekbones. But nowadays, thanks to advances in medicine, there’s nothing to stop patients from having the kind of face that looks great in their dreams.
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.
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.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
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 for a while. 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.
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 for a while. 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
At Aesthetic Surgical Associates, Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger offers several types of cheek implant techniques to meet each patient’s unique goals. The technique used is chosen based on what kind of look the patient wants, how much extra volume is required, and if they want to make their cheekbones look more prominent or fix a loss of volume.
Malar Cheek Implants
Malar implants, which are the most frequently used type of cheek implant, are positioned directly on the cheekbones in order to make a face look more chiseled and defined. By enhancing midface projection, they create the kind of youthful appearance that many patients desire: one with angles instead of curves. If a patient has flat or underdeveloped (hollow) cheeks, then malar implants could give them a dramatically different look by improving how their cheekbones stand out.
Submalar Cheek Implants
Submalar implants are placed under the cheekbones to treat volume loss in the lower midface. It is particularly useful when patients have hollowing or sagging below the eyes from aging. By restoring fullness, submalar implants give a gentle and natural appearance – instead of making sharp contours that look too done.
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. It is a great choice for those who have lost lots of midfacial volume or want total rejuvenation.
Cheek Augmentation with
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 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. Besides, our surgeon may recommend other facial procedures for total rejuvenation. What is more, 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
A chin augmentation is a cosmetic surgery that improves the projection and balance of the chin through reshaping or implants. Combining this procedure with cheek augmentation can improve overall facial harmony for patients with weak or underdeveloped chins. By making the chin more prominent, they can also define the jawline and create an oval face.
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, whilst 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 slowly 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 their mouth. They should steer clear of 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 way to enhance facial definition.
Who Should Consider
Cheek Implants?
While cheek implants can benefit patients of all ages and genders, certain factors may make someone a suitable candidate for this procedure. Here are some key characteristics of a potential patient:
Experience Age-Related Volume Loss
As we age, the cheeks can lose their natural fullness, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance. Cheek implants can help restore this lost volume, creating a more youthful and refreshed look.
Desire More Defined Cheekbones
If a patient has naturally flat or less prominent cheekbones, this procedure can enhance their appearance, creating a more sculpted and defined look.
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
If a patient has facial asymmetry, particularly in the cheek area, cheek implants can help restore balance and improve overall facial harmony.
Want Long-Lasting Enhancement
Cheek implants offer long-lasting results when compared to temporary fillers. They are an excellent option for those who want to add volume, enhance definition, or both—and don’t want to keep coming back for touch-ups.
In Good Physical Health
Candidates must generally be healthy and have no conditions that might affect the way wounds heal—like uncontrolled diabetes or bleeding disorders.
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 remain non-smokers during the recovery period.
Benefits of Cheek Implants
Cheek implants offer a range of benefits that can contribute to a more youthful and attractive appearance. Here are some of the key advantages:
Restores Volume: As we age, the cheeks can lose their natural fullness, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance. This procedure helps restore this lost volume, creating a more youthful and refreshed look.
Enhances Facial Contours: By adding volume to the cheek area, cheek implants can enhance the overall facial contours, creating a more sculpted and defined appearance. This can help accentuate a patient’s natural features and provide a more balanced and harmonious look.
Improves Facial Symmetry: In some cases, facial asymmetry can be addressed through cheek implants. By adding volume to one side or adjusting the placement of implants, facial symmetry can be improved, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Boosts Self-Confidence: Many patients who undergo this cosmetic surgery report feeling more confident and satisfied with their appearance. This boost in self-confidence can positively impact various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors.
Cost of Cheek Implants
in Metairie, LA
The average cost of cheek implant surgery in Metairie, LA, typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. The total of the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, and operating room expenses is provided here. It also covers any needed post-operative supplies or care. However, additional costs may apply based on several factors — for instance, the specific implant type, procedure complexity, or whether a patient undergoes a facelift or eyelid surgery at the same time. For the best estimate, we recommend booking an appointment with Dr. Stephen E. Metzinger to discuss pricing in more detail.
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 surgery.
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.
