What You Need to Know About Dermal Fillers for Cheek Enhancements
Updated: November 2022
Perhaps you have looked in the mirror and noticed signs of aging on your face. Certainly, it happens to all of us. Over time the cellular process happening in our skin begins to slow, and as a result of this lack of proteins, we notice signs such as wrinkles, hollowing, and thinness.
With age, hollows in the cheeks and bags in the lower eyelids are some of the most common effects. As you get older, skin loses its elasticity. This leads to loss of shape and definition of the face. Many individuals desire fuller, more appealing cheek structure or wish to correct sunken cheeks. Both of these conditions can be treated non-surgically with dermal fillers.
Dermal fillers can help camouflage bags and add volume to sagging, hollow cheeks. They can enhance facial contours and have a lifting effect on the face, stimulating natural collagen production. While they cannot turn back the clock to restore your appearance to how it once was, they can help you feel more confident in your changing visage and will help to highlight your best features while taking away the ones you aren’t so fond of. Throughout this post, we’ll explore how to fix sunken cheeks with high cheekbone fillers, including all the details you need to know if you are considering getting this treatment.
What is Cheek Filler?
Dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a natural sugar that is found in the human skin that retains moisture. As we age, the hyaluronic acid beneath our face reduces, and the skin starts looking older. Through the use of dermal fillers, the lost hyaluronic acid is restored, and this visibly firms up the surface around the cheeks. Once injected, the high cheekbone fillers plump up and enhance the treated area. The content of the filler combines with the body’s own hyaluronic acid and binds with the water to create increased volume. It will dissolve naturally over time (approximately eight to 12 months), but you are likely to see results almost instantly. Since this filler has a temporary effect, it’s not uncommon to have these injectables at regular intervals to maintain firmness.
Brands of Cheek Filler
Several dermal filler brands have harnessed the power of hyaluronic acid for its use in cosmetic treatments. While all tend to have this active ingredient, formulas differ from product to product. The most common types of filler for high cheekbones are JUVEDERM and Restylane.
At Dermaworks, we use both of these fillers for our patients. During a consultation, our knowledgeable cosmetic physician can explain the chemical makeup of each, further identifying which would be best used for your visage. After explaining the details of each of these treatments, you can make an informed decision on which might work best for you. Of course, you are welcome to do some research prior to your consultation and come up with questions that you would like to know the answers to.
How Much Does Cheek Filler Cost?
The overall cost of cheek filler really depends on how much is injected. It may also depend on the brand or combination of injectables that are used. Without a full consultation, it is hard to say how much the final price of this treatment would be. In general, patients can expect to pay anywhere between $700 to $1500 for a primary procedure. Subsequent follow-up appointments may cost less depending on the renewed shape of the face.
What Issues Can Cheek Filler Address?
One of the fears many of our patients have is looking unnatural after receiving filler for high cheekbones. They worry that too much will be injected, and as a result, their face will look disproportionate, and their slight enhancement will be overly noticeable. This procedure is not designed to create more issues but rather address the ones you might have in a soft way.
Our experienced physician, Dr. Vassiliou, has more than 20 years of experience with various facial structures and is expertly knowledgeable on brands of injectables and how they affect the overall look of the face. Before we book patients in for an appointment, we have a consultation to discuss their areas of concern. From there, we can explain the injectables available that might help improve their appearance and confidence, discuss the final look they are going for, and ensure we can meet their expectations. High cheekbone fillers can address two issues, including upper cheek and cheek hollow contouring.
Upper Cheek Contouring
The zygomatic or malar area of the cheeks is the area of the high cheekbone below the rims of the eyes that extends out to the sides of the face. The cheekbone area is a key treatment zone for many individuals seeking a lift in one of several aspects of the face.
Over time, skeletal changes, fat loss and collagen depletion will flatten the malar area of the cheeks. This can accentuate sagging in many areas of the face like the hollows under the eyes, the jowls, and a downward turn of the lips. Depending upon the facial characteristics of the client and personal goals, our physician can give the face a smooth curve or a more defined ‘apple’ effect. Clients desiring more of an apple-type cheek may require additional filler in the upper portion of the cheekbone area.
Cheek Hollow Contouring
In the area below the cheekbones and out on the flat plane of the face, known as the sub-malar area, fillers can be used to correct a hollowing that occurs with age or disease. Many individuals who have a gaunt look can benefit from fillers in the cheek hollow areas. Our physician knows it’s important to seek an experienced physician for this treatment, as you need to balance the weight and pull of the fillers in this area with the potential to push the skin upward and outward. Too much can defeat the purpose of the procedure and oppose the effects of the treatment on the cheekbone area.
As with all of the techniques, it is important that the physician has developed an understanding of the balance amidst various facial features and among varying skin and skeletal types. In many instances, these techniques are as much art as science, drawing heavily on the injection experience of the physician. At Dermaworks, you can be confident that our physician’s many years of injecting experience will lead to a desirable outcome.
How Does the Procedure Work?
During treatment, dermal fillers are injected using fine needles at the appropriate areas on the cheek. These areas are carefully determined prior to injections and may be gently marked to ensure the client is aware of where the filler will be used. A topical numbing agent can be used if the patient desires and is generally recommended to avoid any unnecessary discomfort. Once the hyaluronic acid is beneath the skin, it can start to look plumper and fuller almost instantaneously.
The entire procedure normally lasts no longer than 30 minutes. Once it is complete, we keep our patients back for approximately 15 minutes to ensure there are no immediate harsh side effects. There is a minimal recovery period involved once a patient leaves the clinic, and often the person resumes their daily routine immediately after.
Over the next 24 to 48 hours, there may be some swelling, redness, and very rarely bruising around the treated region. During this time, the skin may appear puffy and look unnatural, but this will dissipate over time and leave a softer appearance. It’s possible that patients may sense the filler material under their skin. However, this feeling remains for only a few days until the gel is absorbed into the area, and the swelling subsides.
How Long do Cheek Fillers Last?
Injectables are not permanent. Over time, they will begin to be absorbed naturally into the body. However, that timeline can differ from patient to patient. For the most part, filler for high cheekbones can last anywhere from eight to 12 months.
Many prefer to schedule follow-up appointments to avoid any discrepancies in their appearance and maintain the look they enjoy seeing in the mirror each day. This could mean coming back every eight to ten months or booking an appointment with our cosmetic physician to assess the amount of filler left in the face.
If you have received dermal fillers and decide that over time, they are not for you, there is no pressure to come back and have injectables done again. Alternatively, if you like the fuller look they have given your face and want to use them in other areas, Dr. Vassiliou is happy to discuss your options. It is not uncommon for our patients to come back to us and inquire when they can have more fillers or enhance other areas of their faces.
What are the potential risks and side effects?
As with any injectable cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks and side effects. We take the time to ensure that all our patients who may undergo this treatment know what could happen. While reactions tend to be mild, we recommend calling our clinic if there are any severe changes in your condition. We do not perform these injections on pregnant or breastfeeding women for their own safety.
Common Side Effects
Bruising and swelling around the injection site are normal. Your skin has been pricked, and as a result, the body will have a natural response to send increased blood flow, perhaps causing redness. You may get a slight rash or experience increased itchiness while the area heals itself. In all, common symptoms should last no more than three or four days. After this time, your skin should return to normal and be smooth to the touch.
Serious Side Effects
A dangerous possibility when getting cheek fillers is a vascular occlusion. This occurs when hyaluronic acid is injected into a blood vessel. Patients could experience blurred vision or skin discolouration and will need a near-immediate antidote injection to neutralize the filler. This may happen with lesser experienced cosmetic doctors or those who are not properly trained in facial anatomy. However, it could also happen even with experienced injectors. If left untreated, it could render the patient blind or result in tissue death.
After the procedure, if the injection site is hot to the touch or causing continued discomfort that cannot be soothed, it is paramount to seek medical advice. Infection, leakage, nodules, and granulomas are all severe reactions that need proper care to be treated. While all of these possibilities are rare, it is vital to monitor your condition to ensure you are aware of any significant changes.
How Can You Prepare for Cheek Fillers?
If you’ve been scrolling through before and after photos of patients who have received cheek fillers on social media, and are wondering if fillers can help you, the first step is a consultation. At Dermaworks, this is always where we start.
Meeting with our experienced cosmetic physician, she’ll take the time to get to know you, your areas of concern, and your desired results. You’ll discuss potential filler brand options and risks and side effects. If you would like to move forward with an appointment, we’ll book you into our calendar on a date and time that works for you. From there, we’ll share all the info you need to know to prepare for your injection appointment with us.
There are some things to avoid prior to your procedure that are important to ensure your safety. Some of these details include:
- Refrain from taking any anti-inflammatory drugs at least ten days before you come to the clinic. They may promote more bruising around the injection site. This includes Advil, Ibuprofen, and Motrin. If you need to, Tylenol is acceptable.
- Seven days prior, stop any alcohol consumption. This can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising.
- Two days before the appointment, be careful with your skincare routine. It’s best if you avoid exfoliants and do not shave or wax the area that will be treated.
- On the day of your procedure, don’t do any strenuous exercise. In addition, avoid overexposure to the sun, which could leave your skin inflamed.
All skin on your body is sensitive to change, especially the areas of your face. We try to gather as much information as possible during your consultation so we can provide a personalized preparation list that will encompass all you need to know prior to your appointment with us. If you have any questions or concerns, we welcome you to contact our clinic, where our staff is happy to help.
On Treatment Day
Many of our patients feel nervous and excited when the day of their procedure arrives. Both emotions are totally normal. No matter the time of your appointment, we require you to arrive with a clean, washed face with no makeup. Before you come in, have a filling meal that can help settle your nerves and ensure you are well-hydrated. A few calming breaths might help as well. A topical numbing cream can be applied to minimize discomfort and may last a few hours before wearing off completely. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Vassiliou will begin the procedure.
What Kind of Aftercare Can I Expect?
Once your treatment is complete, we’ll keep you back for a short time to ensure no immediate risks or side effects occur. We’ll take this time to go through your aftercare routine with you, but it will be light! Of course, we’re available to answer any questions you have at this time.
Some key aftercare steps:
- Do not rub, massage, scratch, or touch the injection area for at least the next six hours
- Avoid strenuous exercise that can lead to your face becoming flushed
- Protect yourself from excessive heat, like suntanning, hot tubs, or facials on the day of treatment
- Refrain from drinking alcohol or taking blood thinners for at least 48 hours
Your normal skincare routine is fine to resume the following day. If you wish, sunscreen and light makeup can be applied two hours after your procedure as long as swelling is minimal. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, symptoms that appear immediately after or during your injectable treatment will lessen. This is when your filler for high cheekbones will really start to show, noticeably increasing the volume in your face and enhancing your appearance.
As your injectables settle, they will remain in place for approximately eight to 12 months. You will not need to keep up with any aftercare in that time, nor will you require a follow-up treatment. Should you notice your filler lessening, our clinic is happy to book an appointment for you and touch base regarding the next steps in your beauty journey.
The Dermaworks Difference
Dermal fillers are a personal choice. Often, our patients come to us seeking more information about these treatments because, although they know what they can do, they want to make an informed decision before proceeding with an appointment. We always ensure we book a consultation before a procedure to inform and educate our patients, giving them all the information possible to make the best decision for themselves.
While these injectables can enhance many appearances and provide a temporary improvement, they are not a permanent fix. In order to maintain the look you desire, it will require follow-up appointments spaced apart to ensure the filler does not completely dissipate from your face. If you are searching for a treatment that doesn’t need to be readministered, it’s likely that a surgical procedure would be better suited to you.
At Dermaworks, we want to help you feel more beautiful inside and out. If you’ve been searching for a solution regarding how to fix sunken cheeks or are interested in what fillers for high cheekbones can do for your face, we’d be happy to book you in and get you started on your medical journey. Contact us today to set up your consultation.
