Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons. Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence: Level V: How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery. The blogs/posts are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.
Facial liposuction is a popular treatment that focuses on reducing fat in certain areas of the face. One of the more common treatments sought, is lipo on the cheek. If you have tried alternative methods such as diet and exercise without achieving the results you would like, cheek liposuction is a good option.
Before considering treatment, it’s important to understand what the procedure involves, the recovery time and the outcomes. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who is a Good Candidate for Treatment?
While cheek lipo can provide great results for some, it’s not recommended for all. A good candidate for treatment is:
- Someone aged between 20 and 50.
- Someone with cheek fat that has not reduced with traditional methods such as diet and exercise.
- Someone who is looking for a more prominent cheek bone appearance.
How Cheek Liposuction is Performed
In most cases, lipo on the cheek is performed under a local anaesthetic, though general anaesthetic or sedation are often available. In the period prior to surgery, the area is prepared for treatment through ultrasound or laser treatments. Then, during the procedure, incisions are usually made inside the mouth along the upper gum line for minimal scarring.
Your consultant will delicately tease the fat away using pressure on your cheek. Under a local anaesthetic, you may experience the feeling of tugging or pulling but in most cases, this will be painless.
What to Expect From the Recovery
As with any surgery, the recovery takes time. With facial liposuction such as cheek lipo, swelling and discomfort are common, but the length of recovery will vary from patient to patient. Generally, you’ll experience the following:
- In the first few days, you will experience some pain and swelling which can be managed with medicines. During this time, you should rest as much as possible.
- By the end of the first week, the swelling and pain will begin to subside. You should continue to rest as much as possible.
- By the end of the second week, you will feel more comfortable and can begin to resume normal activities.
- During weeks three to six, symptoms will continue to improve, and you will likely have a follow up appointment with your consultant.
- Beyond week six, you should be able to resume all normal activities including physical activity.
Possible Risks or Complications
No surgery comes without risk. Deciding if you should undergo treatment will depend on whether the benefits outweigh the potential risks and complications. It’s advised to seek the advice of your consultant to help you make an informed decision. Risks and complications include:
- Infection at the incision sites.
- Asymmetrical results.
- Injury to saliva ducts.
- Anaesthesia complications.
- Facial muscle weakness.
- Skin laxity.
- Nerve damage.
Consult the Experts at Artiste
For more information on cheek liposuction and whether it’s the right treatment for you, book a consultation with the experts at Artiste. Let’s discuss your wants, your needs and your goals and create a treatment plan that will refresh and rejuvenate your skin.