JW MEDISPA
ONLINE STORE		 312-642-0400
845 North Michigan Ave, Chicago
1811 St Johns Ave, Highland Park


Procedures > Facial Plastic Surgery Procedures > Cheek Augmentation

Cheek Augmentation

Cheek augmentation is a surgical procedure used to restore facial harmony and a rested youthful appearance by repairing and augmenting checkbones that look flat or sunken. Many patients come to our practice looking for other procedures and find that a cheek augmentation, rather than or in conjunction with a rhinoplasty or chin implant, would best meet their goals.

What can cheek augmentation treat?
  • Tired, drawn look
  • Flat, undefined cheekbones
  • Sunken cheekbones
  • Nose or chin that looks "too big" on face but in isolation is of normal size

Is a cheek augmentation right for me?

Cheek augmentation is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Cheek augmentation may be a good option for you if:

  • Your facial growth is complete and you are 15 years of age or older
  • You are physically healthy
  • You do not smoke
  • You have specific, but realistic goals, in mind for the improvement

What happens during a cheek augmentation?
  • Step 1 - Anesthesia

    Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, and your anesthesiologist, will recommend the best choice for you.

  • Step 2 - The Incision

    Depending on your specific case, Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago cosmetic surgeon, will make one of two kinds of incisions- one inside of the mouth on the upper lip or on the lower eyelid ("transconjunctival" approach).

  • Step 3 - Insert the Implant

    A pocket is created between the cheekbones and the overlying soft tissue. The implant is placed into that pocket. Implants are occasionally sutured to anchor them in place, but most often your Chicago cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, will simply make a precise pocket that will hold the implant in its place until your body forms a capsule around the implant.

  • Step 4 - Close the Incision

    Once the implant is in place, the incision will be stitched closed.

  • Step 5 - See the Results

    You should be able to the results within a week of the surgery. While initial swelling subsides within a few weeks, you will see close to the final result within 3 months of the surgery. As with all plastic surgery of the face, it will take approximately a year for the soft tissue to completely settle. Call Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, if you have any concerns.

    What should I expect during the recovery period?

    After your procedure your face may be sore and there may be some bruising around your eyes and nose in the first week after surgery. We offer post-surgical make-up assistance to help you conceal bruising during your recovery period.

    You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow up with Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Illinois plastic surgeon.

    What are the risks of cheek augmentation surgery?

    All plastic surgery carries risks along with the many rewards as no surgery is risk free. Dr. Jeffrey Weinzweig, your Chicago plastic surgeon, will explain the risks in your consultation so you can make an informed decision based on your unique situation.