High, prominent cheekbones are among the facial features most frequently associated with beauty. Today, this underlying facial structure can be enhanced with implants.

Whether you want heightened and well-formed cheekbones like the ones you had when you were young, or you have never had well-defined cheekbones, implants can produce a dramatic change. For many people, malar augmentation (cheek augmentation) can provide new facial contours and dimensions to bring facial features into better balance.

Are you a candidate?

Malar augmentation is particularly useful for patients with underdeveloped cheek prominence or for patients who have lost cheek fullness as a result of aging.

Are there different types of malar implants?

Malar implants are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Malar augmentation can also be accomplished with Fat Transfer can also be accomplished. The ideal implant and procedure will be discussed with you in detail during your consultation.

What other types of midface augmentation are there?

Pyriform augmentation, also known as paranasal augmentation, is especially helpful if you have hollow or receding facial contours in the areas on either side of the nose. Whenever present, the upper lip and cheeks will appear flat and sometimes with deep nasolabial folds. This recession will potentiate the effects of aging and can be corrected with pyriform augmentation. Pyriform augmentation involves the placement of small implants on either side of the nose through small incisions in the gum. Orthognathic Surgery can also be considered, but due to its complexity, may not suitable for many individuals.

Can I undergo malar augmentation and other procedures simultaneously?

A malar augmentation can be performed alone or in conjunction with other facial rejuvenating procedures, such as Blepharoplasty to brighten your eyes, or a Chin Augmentation to restore your chin and neck, or a Browlift that will rid you of the tired look.

How is the procedure performed?

When malar implant surgery is performed in conjunction with other facial procedures, the implants may be inserted through the incisions used for that procedure. If malar implant surgery is performed by itself, incisions are made at the top of the upper lip near the gums. The implant of the size and shape that the surgeon has selected is then inserted through these incisions into a pocket created in the tissue. In some cases, a small titanium screw is used to attach the implant and the bone. The implants are placed on or below the cheekbones and the incisions are closed with sutures that the body will later absorb. At the conclusion of the surgery, a dressing will be applied to the skin to reduce swelling.

Will incisions be visible?

Malar and midface augmentation surgery usually leaves no visible scars.

What are the risks of malar and pyriform augmentation?

Complications form malar augmentation are infrequent and usually minor. Still, individuals vary greatly in their anatomy, their physical reactions, and their healing abilities, and the outcome is never completely predictable.

Complications may include hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin that must be removed by the surgeon), infection, and reactions to the anesthesia. Poor healing of the skin is most likely to affect smokers. You can reduce your risks by closely following your surgeon’s instructions both before and after surgery.

How do you prepare for surgery?

Your will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications, and not smoking. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. If you smoke, it is especially important to stop at least a week or two before surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin and can interfere with the healing of your incisions.

Where is the procedure done?

Malar and midface augmentation surgery may be performed in our office-based facility, an outpatient surgery center, or a hospital. It is usually performed on an outpatient basis.

What will the recovery period be like after surgery?

Most patients do not experience any significant discomfort after surgery; any pain or welling you experience may be alleviated with medication prescribed by your surgeon. You will be told to keep your head elevated and as still as possible for a couple of days after surgery to help minimize swelling.

Your will be given more specific guidelines for gradually resuming your normal activities. Avoid strenuous activity, including sex and heavy housework, for at least two weeks (walking and mild stretching are fine); avoid alcohol, steam baths, and saunas for several months. Above all, get plenty of rest and allow your body to spend its energy on healing.