Some patients are born with a relatively flat mid-face that does not develop with the rest of the face. Cheek implants can restore facial harmony and accentuate the beauty commonly associated with high cheekbones. Most people lose cheek structure and volume with age. Relocating the cheek fat upwards in facelift surgery can reverse this aged look. This can be further enhanced with cheek implants.

The Procedure

Cheek implant surgery is performed either as an isolated procedure or can be combined with other facial or nose surgery, including chin implant. Cheek implants can be inserted via lower eyelid incisions or through facelift incisions at the time of facelift surgery, but are most commonly inserted via an incision in the upper gum inside the mouth. The implants are placed right next to the bone so that a maximum amount of soft tissue covers the implants. This camouflages their shape and makes them less likely to be felt. The surgery is performed as a day-stay procedure under general anaesthesia.

Recovery from Cheek Implant Surgery

After a cheek implant procedure you should be up and about on the same day and back at work within a week. Bruising and swelling is minimal, but can last for a week or so. There is generally little pain associated with the cheek implant procedure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an ideal age for cheek implant surgery?

There is no ideal age for cheek implant surgery, however, as your facial features are growing throughout adolescence, it is recommended to wait until the age of around 18 or older.

Where is the surgery performed and do I need to stay in hospital?

Cheek implant surgery is performed in a private, accredited hospital under general anaesthetic with a qualified anaesthetist and usually takes approximately 1.5 hours. You can go home the same day but will require someone to pick you up to care for you at least overnight and take you to Silkwood for your post-op appointments.

How long does a cheek implant last?

Cheek implants are made of hard solid silicone (meant to imitate bone) and so do not leak or break down. They are designed to last a lifetime and only need to be taken out in rare circumstances.

Where will the scars be?

Cheek implant incisions are generally inside the mouth.

How much does it cost?

Dr Nettle’s surgical fee is approximately $7,000. This does not include the assistant fee, anaesthetist fee, hospital stay and garments if necessary. Dr Nettle and our cosmetic surgery consultant Michelle will discuss and determine the costs on the day of your consultation.

Are there any Medicare rebates?

There are no Medicare rebates as cheek implants are considered a cosmetic procedure.

How can I be sure cheek implants will look natural?

As with almost all surgery, moderation is the key to a natural-looking result. While a moderate increase in cheek size may be aesthetically beneficial, a very large increase can look artificial and disharmonious. Dr Nettle always strives for natural-looking results in cheek implant surgery, and so will carefully assess you to determine the correct implant size and shape for your requirements.

Will cheek implants move around?

Correct positioning of the cheek implant is important, as they are designed to stay in one position and not move

Are there alternatives to cheek implants?

Facelift surgery repositions cheek volume and can address aesthetic flaws in the cheek region. Fat injections to this area can also often achieve long-lasting results. The fat may fade with time and requires maintenance. Dermal fillers are an alternative solution which usually need to be topped up every year to 18 months. Cheek implants remain the most effective permanent solution.

When will I have my follow-up and will it be with Dr Nettle?

You will be seen by Dr Nettle within 7 days of your surgery.Regular appointments are made to remove sutures and to check on your healing following surgery.

How will I know how to care for my wounds when I go home?

Cheek implant wounds are inside the mouth. You will be given a Plastic Surgery Recovery guide upon booking your surgery. This document explains in great detail all of your after care following surgery.

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*Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risk. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.*