The Skinny
Average Recovery
6 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Injected
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$350 - $6000
Before & After Images by Provider
Before & After Images by Provider
Cheek Augmentation with Fat Transfer
The Specifics
What is a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure?
Cheek augmentation with fat transfer is considered a “natural” cheek augmentation procedure. Given the implant material is the patient’s own body fat harvested via liposuction from another area of the body there is no risk of rejection of the cheek implant. Fat cells will be slightly reabsorbed by the body, however, fat based cheek implants are shown to last longer than most hyaluronic acid based injectable fillers. A cheek augmentation with fat transfer increases cheek volume and facial contours for a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
What cosmetic concerns does a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure?
The ideal candidate for a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure has poorly defined and/or sunken cheeks from any number of causes including loss of tissue volume from aging, trauma, significant weight loss, genetics, or a congenital deformity. Cheek augmentation with fat transfer is not recommended for those with coagulation or lipid metabolism disorders, certain chronic medical conditions, acute infection, or those with low body weight who are not candidates for fat grafting.
What is the average recovery associated with a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure?
Following a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure there is swelling and bruising that mostly resolves within 10 days, however, some swelling can persist for up to six weeks. Cool compresses can be used to mitigate swelling. Most patients return to work within two days, and resume all activities within one week.
What are the potential side effects of a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure?
Possible side effects following a cheek augmentation with fat transfer include bruising, pain, redness, asymmetry, prolonged edema, fat calcification, and fat necrosis.
What can someone expect from the results of a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure?
The results of a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure will be noticeable after the procedure although multiple treatments may be needed to achieve the desired aesthetic. Additionally, some plastic surgeons may initially overcompensate the injection to account for the body’s natural fat reabsorption processes. The results will be affected by significant weight gain or weight loss. Maintenance treatments are needed every one to five years depending on the individual candidate.
What is the average cost of a cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure?
A cheek augmentation with fat transfer procedure can cost anywhere from $350 to $6,000. The actual cost of a cheek augmentation with fat transfer is dependent upon location, board certified facial plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.
Pros
Cons
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Fat grafting can be performed in the cheeks to enhance the fullness of the face with a lesser likelihood of rejection. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after cheek augmentation with fat transfer.
The Takeaway
Cheek augmentation with fat transfer is a cheek enhancement cosmetic surgery utilizing natural body tissues to create a more youthful appearance through fuller cheeks.
