Cheek augmentation is a common procedure in facial gender-affirming surgeries. It can be achieved through various techniques, including fat grafting and dermal fillers. Each method offers different benefits and can be tailored to meet the specific goals of each patient.
Cheek Augmentation with Fat Grafting
Fat grafting is a two-step procedure that uses fat cells to fill in hollow cheeks and contour the cheekbones. Fat cells used during the procedure are obtained through liposuction, which is a minimally invasive surgery performed on the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The transferred fat cells are then injected into the cheeks using a hollow needle. Fat grafting is Dr. Deschamps-Braly’s preferred method of cheek augmentation since the results are more natural compared to cheek implants that sit over the cheek bone. However, fat grafting and implants can be used in combination for patients seeking a dramatic transformation.
Cheek augmentation can be used in facial feminization surgery to create the look of high cheekbones or used in facial masculinization surgery to give the cheeks a more squared appearance, combatting the look of rounded feminine cheeks. This surgery can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures like jawline contouring and forehead reshaping.
Cheek Augmentation with Fillers
Cheek fillers are a non-surgical treatment option performed by board-certified aesthetic nurse specialist and master cosmetic injector Jennifer Fick. There are several different types of hyaluronic acid fillers that can be used for cheek augmentation. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance in the body that hydrates the skin and gives it elasticity for a subtle plumping effect. Because of this natural component, almost anyone who wants to enhance the contours of their cheeks is a candidate for dermal fillers.
Which Procedure is Right for You?
Choosing between a fat transfer and fillers depends on several factors and it can be helpful to compare the benefits of each procedure when determining which is best for your personalized treatment.
Desired Permanence:
One of the main benefits of facial fat grafting is its permanent results. Once the fat injections are placed, patients can enjoy long-lasting enhancement without the need for regular maintenance or touch-ups. However, cheek fillers can be beneficial for patients who want to “try on” results before committing to a permanent change. These fillers will gradually be absorbed into the body, but results can last one year or more.
Aesthetic Goals
Patients seeking a major transformation in their facial shape and overall appearance can benefit from fat grafting. Transferred fat cells can build structure in the midface and increase the projection of the cheekbones. By creating this gentle lift, age-related volume loss can also be addressed. Patients who are looking for a more subtle change results may find that dermal fillers are the better option.
Natural Enhancement
Fat grafting uses fat cells from your own body, making this procedure completely natural. Although hyaluronic acid (the main substance in most fillers) is natural, there are also artificial components in dermal fillers. Patients with severe allergies can feel reassured about the safety of their cheek augmentation with fat grafting, as long as they are good surgical candidates.
Schedule a Consultation
Facial fat transfers and dermal fillers offer unique benefits for patients considering cheek augmentation. At Deschamps-Braly Clinic, our goal is to help patients feel more confident in their physical appearance and we are pleased to offer various treatment options to meet each patient’s treatment goals.
To learn more about cheek augmentation for gender affirmation, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Jordan Deschamps-Braly, a world leader in facial gender confirmation surgery.
Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery, orthognathic (jaw) surgery, and craniofacial surgery for adults and children. He is also one of the world’s foremost leaders and innovators in facial gender confirmation surgery.
