Cheek augmentation is considered a relatively safe and less invasive procedure. However, complications from this cosmetic surgery may occur in a few cases.
The surgeon will discuss the potential risks associated with this procedure during the initial consultation with the patient.
The first concern of a committed surgeon will be to apprise the patient on all aspects of cheek augmentation surgery, including its risk and safety profile. This will help the patient make a well-informed choice.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin provides cheek implants to patients in West Covina, Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, Pasadena, Diamond Bar and surrounding areas in California.
Potential Risks
Following the cheek implant surgery, the patient will experience minor swelling and bruising, which will gradually resolve on its own. This is a common side effect of any surgery. The surgeon may prescribe pain meds for a few days to keep the patient comfortable.
Specific risks related to cheek augmentation cosmetic surgery include:
Implant Displacement
The surgeon will securely place the implants within the tissue pocket that they will create in the cheek. However, in rare cases, the implant may move from its original position after some time. In such cases, the patient will require a revision surgery to correct the position of the implant.
Cheek Numbness
The skin in the cheek and lip area is often more sensitive than other facial areas. If the delicate nerves in the mid-face are damaged during implant surgery, it can cause numbness in the cheek and lip area. In most cases, the numbness will gradually dissipate by itself. However, in rare situations, the numbness may be prolonged or even permanent.
Contour Irregularities
If the implant size or shape is not well-suited to the patient’s overall facial profile, it may create contour irregularities in the cheek.
The patient may require revision surgery in such cases. An experienced surgeon will carefully customize the size and shape of the implant to enable it to fit properly into the tissue pocket. They will adjust the position correctly before suturing the implant into the cheek.
Implant Extrusion
In rare cases, the patient may experience cheek implant extrusion. It may occur due to severe facial trauma or a major infection.
Surgical Risks
Cheek augmentation surgery has some inherent risks, similar to any surgical procedure. These include:
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Poor anesthesia reaction
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Seroma or hematoma (the accumulation of blood or fluid underneath the skin, possibly requiring surgical intervention)
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Excessive bleeding
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Infection
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Altered sensation in incision sites
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Noticeable scarring
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Allergic reaction
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Damage to underlying structures
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Undesirable aesthetic results that may need a revision procedure for correction
Minimizing the Risks
Cheek augmentation risks can be minimized when the patient chooses an experienced plastic surgeon with advanced skills in facial procedures. Board certified plastic surgeons typically invest in cutting edge surgical technique, maintain high quality standards and best practices, and follow the latest safety protocols.
The patient, on their part, should be forthright when it comes to disclosing their medical history and lifestyle habits to the surgeon. This will allow the surgeon to take the necessary precautions and minimize the risks associated with the procedure.
Focused plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin receives patients from West Covina, Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, Pasadena, Diamond Bar and towns and suburbs in this part of the southwest in California for cheek augmentation.
Click here to learn more about all the plastic surgery procedures and treatments cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin performs for patients in and around Pasadena, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, West Covina, Inland Empire, and San Gabriel Valley. Call today to schedule a consultation 626.810.6165 or click here.
