Cheek augmentation, the cosmetic procedure to add volume to the cheeks, has gained popularity worldwide, including in South Africa. Whether you want to enhance your facial features or restore lost volume due to aging, cheek augmentation can be a solution. Here are 15 essential things you should know before considering this procedure.
1. What is Cheek Augmentation?
Cheek augmentation involves procedures that enhance the contour, shape, and fullness of the cheeks. It’s typically achieved through dermal fillers or cheek implants, depending on your desired result and your doctor’s recommendations.
2. Two Main Options: Fillers vs. Implants
There are two primary methods for cheek augmentation:
- Dermal Fillers: These are non-surgical and involve injections that add temporary volume. Popular filler materials include hyaluronic acid (like Juvederm or Restylane).
- Cheek Implants: A surgical option that involves placing solid implants over the cheekbones to provide permanent enhancement.
3. It’s Not Just for the Youthful Look
While cheek augmentation is often associated with restoring youthful volume, it’s also an option for younger individuals who desire more pronounced cheekbones or symmetry.
4. Non-Surgical Options Are Reversible
One of the advantages of dermal fillers is that they are temporary and can be reversed if you’re unhappy with the results. Fillers generally last between 6 to 18 months, depending on the product used.
5. What to Expect During the Procedure
For dermal fillers, the procedure is relatively quick, lasting around 30 minutes with minimal downtime. Cheek implant surgery, on the other hand, requires anesthesia and a recovery period, with the surgery lasting about one to two hours.
6. Recovery Time for Fillers vs. Surgery
Fillers require minimal recovery, with some patients returning to normal activities the same day. Swelling and bruising may occur but usually subside within a week. Surgery, however, requires a longer recovery time of 1 to 2 weeks, and it may take a few months for the full results to settle.
7. Cheek Augmentation Can Be Combined With Other Procedures
Many women combine cheek augmentation with other treatments like Botox, lip fillers, or a facelift to achieve a more balanced and rejuvenated appearance.
8. The Importance of a Skilled Practitioner
For the best results, it’s crucial to select a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist. An experienced practitioner will understand facial anatomy and ensure that the augmentation looks natural and complements your features.
9. Customizable Results
Cheek augmentation is highly customizable. Whether you want subtle enhancement or dramatic changes, your doctor can tailor the procedure to meet your specific needs and goals.
10. Who is a Good Candidate?
You’re likely a good candidate for cheek augmentation if you:
- Have flat or sunken cheeks.
- Desire more facial definition.
- Are in good general health.
A consultation with a professional will help determine if this is the right option for you.
11. Potential Risks
Like any cosmetic procedure, cheek augmentation carries some risks. For fillers, risks include infection, bruising, or asymmetry. For implants, additional risks like implant shifting, infection, or scarring may occur. Discuss these risks thoroughly with your doctor.
12. Costs in South Africa
The cost of cheek augmentation varies depending on the method chosen. Dermal fillers generally cost between R4,000 and R12,000 per session, while surgical implants can range from R30,000 to R70,000. Prices may vary based on the clinic and expertise of the practitioner.
13. Results Are Instant but Improve Over Time
With fillers, you will notice immediate changes, though swelling might obscure the final look initially. Surgical implants also offer instant results, but healing takes time before the final shape is apparent.
14. Minimal Maintenance with Implants
Once surgical implants are in place and healed, they typically require no further maintenance, unlike fillers, which may need regular top-ups to maintain the desired look.
15. Considerations for African Skin
Women of color, especially those with darker skin tones, should discuss the possibility of hyperpigmentation or scarring with their doctor. African skin has a higher risk of keloid scarring, particularly with surgical procedures, so this is an important factor to address during consultations.
In conclusion, cheek augmentation can enhance your facial appearance, but it’s essential to be well-informed about the different options, risks, and expected results. Whether you choose dermal fillers for a temporary boost or implants for a more permanent change, consult a skilled professional to ensure you achieve the desired outcome.
