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Cheek Surgery
(Malar Augmentation or Buccal Fat Extraction)

Chicago, Illinois

Aesthetic surgery of the cheeks is performed primarily to correct two conditions: 1) small or underdeveloped cheek bones and 2) excessively full or "chubby" cheeks. Although mild forms of "drooping" cheeks may be corrected with cheek implants, a face lift (meloplasty) or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).

Cheek implants are employed to correct a flattened or small cheek appearance as well as asymmetry due to congenital cause or trauma. The earliest recommended age for malar augmentation is usually the mid-teenage years when the facial bones have attained their anticipated growth and form.

Enlargement of the cheeks is usually performed with the use of implants but can involve reshaping of the facial bones. Implants are available in a variety of materials. Questions about the technique, size, and type of implant to be used, as well as any concerns about the safety and present status of implants will be discussed during consultation with your surgeon.

Depending on the surgical procedure selected, an outpatient approach is usually suitable for malar augmentation which can be carried out under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. This procedure usually takes approximately one hour to perform. Incisions are usually placed inside the mouth but can be placed through the lower eyelid or other approaches depending on the extent of the procedure. Cheek surgery produces moderate discomfort which can be controlled by medication. Antibiotics will be prescribed to minimize the chance of infection.

Following surgery, you will be asked to keep your head elevated. Swelling and discoloration are greatest for the first week and diminish thereafter. The duration of these factors varies. Mild asymmetry can occur. Diminished upper lip sensation is not uncommon and usually improves with time. You can be up and about within a day, but strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately three weeks

Buccal fat extraction is carried out to reduce mid cheek fullness which is due to excessive fat. It may be performed as an isolated procedure or in combination with others. Buccal fat extraction is performed during the adult years.

Depending on the surgical procedure selected, an outpatient approach is usually suitable and can be carried out under local, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia. This procedure usually takes approximately one hour to perform. Incisions are usually placed inside the mouth but can be placed through the lower eyelid or other approaches. Cheek surgery produces moderate discomfort which can be controlled by medication.

Following surgery, you will be asked to keep your head elevated. Swelling and discoloration are greatest for the first week and diminish thereafter. The duration of these factors varies. Mild asymmetry in shape or facial movement can occur. You can be up and about within a day, but strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately one week.

Find out more with our Facial Procedure FAQ.

Manor Care Post-Operative Recovery

Link to American Society of Plastic Surgeons Facial Implants Information

Please call or e-mail our Chicago or Arlington Heights plastic surgery offices for more information on any of the above plastic surgery procedures.

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Associated Plastic Surgeons, S.C.
Otto J. Placik, M.D., F.A.C.S.
(847) 398-1660 or (312) 787-5313
Arlington Heights and Chicago, Illinois

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