Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery • Dr. Raymond J. Haigney II • 9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 • (704) 987-3132
9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 • (704) 987-3132
Cheek Implant (also known as malarplasty)
Cheek implants (malarplasty) is a popular procedure that is typically performed for individuals who want to enhance the aesthetic appearance of their face and restore a natural youthful expression. As people age, one of the primary areas that is affected are the cheeks, which begin to sag and become less defined. The cheek implant procedure is minimally invasive and typically has tremendous results in enhancing cheek bones, restoring a youthful appearance, and reducing or potentially eliminating the need for a face lift. For individuals whose cheeks have lost volume, either due to weight loss or aging, a cheek implant that is placed below or on the cheekbones is a quick and effective solution for this issue. Cheek implants can also be effective in lifting a sagging jaw line or minimizing wrinkles and lines. Cheek implants are also effective in restoring cheekbone definition.
At Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery, we offer a full range of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, specializing in facial reconstruction, facial surgery, corrective jaw surgery, obstructive sleep apnea, and wisdom tooth removal. If you would like to learn more about our services, or schedule an appointment for a cheek implant procedure, contact us today. New patients are welcome and a referral from another doctor is not required.
The Cheek Implant Process
Prior to scheduling a cheek lift, you will need to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled professionals, during which we will discuss what issues you would like to address. Following this conversation, an evaluation will be performed to determine what options are available to you and which approach best aligns with your specific goal, including the shape, type, and size of implant that is the best fit for you.
If it is determined that you are a viable candidate for cheek implants, the next step will be to take a scan of your facial structure. This scan will then be used in a computer program to design implants that are uniquely suited for you needs and to create a natural look that will appear to have always been a part of your face. Once this scan is complete, you will schedule a follow up appointment to have the procedure. The procedure typically takes around one hour.
Prior to beginning the chin implant process, anesthesia will be administered to ensure you do not experience pain or discomfort during the procedure. Once you have been properly numbed, the implants will be placed within the cheek region below the facial muscles. The implants are inserted through the mouth’s wall. Placing the implants in this manner ensures that facial scarring will not occur and the end result will appear to be natural.
Following your procedure, it is normal to experience some numbness, swelling, and bruising. This can typically be managed by using ice packs and OTC pain medication and should be gone within two weeks. During this recovery time, you will be able to notice the results of your surgery immediately; however, it will take a few months before the implant completely settles, at which point it will have a much more natural and softer appearance.
After this period, you will not have to follow any special care instructions for your chin implant. Additionally, one of the major benefits to having a chin implant is that because they are secured to the cheek bones, they will stay in place, which means you will likely enjoy the benefits of your cheek implants for a lifetime.
Types of Cheek Implants
There are a range of implant types that vary in shape, size, and type. Which implant is right for you will be determined after analyzing your cheek structure. Possible implant types include the following:
- Fat Grafting: Fat tissue is harvested from other sites in the body using liposuction and then injected into the mid-face to help enhance volume.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a natural substance generally found in connective tissue into deep layers of the mid-face. Results typically last for 6-12 months.
- Porous Polythylene: A porous implant material that is administered in the same manner as silicone implants. The material will naturally shape to the internal contours of the cheek and has the unique quality of attaching better to the tissues and bones and allowing for the check to adjust to its natural form. One drawback to this approach is that the implant is more difficult if the patient decides they would prefer to not have it in.
- Silicone Implants: A permanent solution for adding volume to cheeks that is applicable for a variety of sizes and shapes. To perform this procedure, a digital analysis will be taken of your facial structure to determine the size, shape, and definition of the implant. Once this is decided, pockets against the cheekbone will be made where the implants will be placed.
Cost of Cheek Implants
The cost of your procedure will be determined by a variety of factors, such as the severity of your condition, any unique health issues you have that may complicate the procedure, and what type of insurance plan you have. Our office will file your claim, handle the paperwork, and ensure you maximize your insurance reimbursement. The remaining balance following your insurance coverage will be your responsibility. Prior to performing the procedure, we will discuss the expected cost, as well as payment plan options that are available to you, such as Lending Club and Care Credit, which offer 6 and 12 month interest-free payment plans.
For your convenience, we accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express.
Schedule Your Appointment
At Lake Norman Oral and Facial Surgery, we are committed to treating our patients the way we would expect to be treated. Because Dr. Haigney is a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, you can be confident you will receive care that implements the latest dental advancements and is informed by current research and best practices, resulting in you achieving the results you deserve.
To schedule an appointment or consultation, contact our staff at (704) 255-5888 or request an appointment online.