Cheeks Archives - Scott Mosser M.D.

Union Square, San Francisco
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There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing the right filler to enhance the cheeks. Costs play a role, as do ease of injection and how long the filler lasts.

You also need to consider your unique goals and the amount of volume required. For large amounts of volume, Sculptra is one of the most cost-effective cheek fillers, and is the longest lasting.

However, other fillers can be effective for more subtle improvements in the face. In that case, the duration of the filler usually takes priority in the decision. Juvederm and Restylane last anywhere from 6-9 months and is often a popular choice.

Radiesse is also used with success, and is more cost effective than Juvederm and Restylane for the amount of months of correction you can get.

If you are looking for a more permanent solution, fat grafting with a skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeon can be a viable option as well. As always, it’s best to schedule a consult to discuss your goals, and from there decide the best course of treatment options.
Significant facial swelling can be seen for 1-2 weeks after your procedure. A complete resolution of all swelling should be apparent at 2-3 months. However true facial definition (such as in the thinner areas of the face) can take several months to completely reappear based on how long ago you had the grafting done, and how much fat was actually transplanted and survived.

It’s best to consult your surgeon with any concerns as they will know exactly how much fat they grafted and if and when you should be worried. Also, be sure the surgeon you choose for procedures such as fat grafting is Board Certified, experienced and performs fat grafting procedures regularly.
Each procedure has both its pros and its cons. With fat grafting, the fat will usually stay in position, but whether or not all the fat grafted will survive isn’t entirely reliable. It depends largely on the skill and techniques used by the surgeon performing the procedure. Additional surgeries are possible for additional corrections.

With cheek implants, there may be the possibility of future procedures related to the implants, but the main issue with implants is that they tend to change your fundamental appearance just a bit. This can certainly be a good thing, but it’s important for patients to be aware of this fact before proceeding. Fat grafting and fillers tend to not affect your fundamental ‘look’ and instead give you a softer and sometimes rounder appearance.

For more temporary results, fillers can be used to enhance the cheek area, and are less invasive. However your costs after multiple treatments can often be comparable to the costs of implants or fat grafting, so talk to your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. They can then help you decide the best course of action based on your particular situation and goals.
When done by a professional experienced with injectables, results can often be seen almost immediately after treatment. When done correctly there is very little bruising or swelling immediately.

Over the course of the next 3-5 days you may then see some minor swelling, but after the 5th day that should be resolved almost entirely. As always, consult a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon before making any decisions regarding treatments, to discuss the best options unique to your situation.