As we age, one of the many facial changes is the loss of volume in the cheek area. This is most apparent in patients that are thin or have a normal age-appropriate weight. The cheek prominences become less and more saggy. In addition, the area below the cheek bone known as the submalar or buccal cheek area will often become more indented. In some patients, this can create a ‘gaunt’ or aged look. People who are heavy rarely develop this sign of facial aging as their cheeks remain fuller and more rounded, creating the ‘Santa Claus’ effect. (round and jolly but vibrant)
While the most effective long-term solution to cheek volume loss is surgical (midface lift, cheek implants, submalar implants, or fat injections), injectable fillers offer a quick and effective method of a subtle cheek enhancement. By injecting volume into the cheeks or below in the buccal area, the face can appear more youthful and ‘uplifted’. The effect is not designed to be dramatic, nor should it be, but a subtle improvement that looks natural. This is a quick solution that has immediate effects without the swelling and potential bruising from surgery.
While the effect injectable cheek augmentation is only temporary, how long it lasts will be influenced by what type of injectable filler is used. The hyalurons, such as JuvaDerm and Restylane, will last in the range of 4 to 6 months, in some cases maybe a few months longer. When using the particulated fillers, such as Radiesse or ArteFill, I would expect the effect to last longer in the range of 9 to 12 months. (or basically double that of the hyalurons)
Injectable cheek augmentation can be enhanced by the simultaneous use of Botox injections in the crow’s feet and cheek areas. The objective being to weaked the expression lines around the eyes so that the amount of wrinkling with smiling is less. The combination of these injectable midface treatments makes for a nice rejuvenation of the middle third of the face that looks very natural and relaxed. All done in less than 30 minutes and you are on your way back to work or home for the evening without anyone being the wiser!
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana