Surgical Cosmetic Procedures Blepharoplasty-Eyelid Lift Brow/Forehead Lift Cheiloplasty-Lip Reshaping Liposuction

Malarplasty-Cheek/Mid-Face Lift

Mentoplasty-Chin Reshaping

Otoplasty-Ear Reshaping

Rhinoplasty-Nose Reshaping

Rhytidectomy-Face Lift

 

What to know
before your first procedure

Surgical Cosmetic Treatments

MALARPLASTY: Surgery to improve the shape of the cheekbones

High, prominent cheekbones are a well recognized symbol of beauty in our society. Conversely, one of the features of facial aging is the drift of the cheek prominence in a downward direction and a sagging hollowness of the cheeks. As previously mentioned, differences in the size of the cheekbones, or asymmetry, may be a congenital or traumatic deformity. All of these situations can potentially be improved by cheek implants. During consultation, these areas will be assessed in relation to the overall facial architecture and computer imaging will be used to demonstrate possible results.

How is the procedure performed?

This procedure is often performed in conjunction with other procedures such as facelift surgery in order to achieve an improved overall result. The anesthesia can be either general or "twilight sleep", but in any case, the patient may return home after the surgery, and will be seen the next morning in the office. The incisions are all made inside the mouth, actually under the upper lip. A medical grade implant of the proper size and shape for the individual is inserted and positioned. The entire operation takes approximately 30 minutes.

How long is the recovery period?

Healing is generally complete in one week. There is almost no discomfort and only moderate swelling for the first several days. The cheeks will often appear too large in the beginning due to the swelling. Most patients can return to work at the end of one week.

What kind of implant is used?

A medical grade synthetic polymer such as silastic is currently used. This material has a long and excellent safety record.

What are the possible complications?

Rejection of the implant is rare, as is infection. Displacement of the implant by a blow to the cheek area is possible for several weeks and must be avoided.