What is a Cheek Implant for Men in NYC?
Cheek implant for men in NYC surgery is often performed to accentuate the cheekbones and improve the appearance of a “flattened” face. There are 3 types of cheek implants which include malar, sub-malar, or both. These implants are placed directly onto the bone, giving the cheek a greater volume and projection. A cheek implant also tightens skin, resulting in a more sculpted, youthful look. Dr. Steinbrech performs cheek implant surgery at his fully-accredited NYC surgical center alone or in conjunction with other procedures such as chin implant surgery to achieve more desirable facial symmetry. Conversely, patients may also choose facial fat injections as an alternative to synthetic cheek implants.
How is Cheek Implant Surgery Performed?
Before the cheek implant procedure, your surgeon will help you choose a customizable implant that best suits your situation and desired look. Using a local anesthetic, tiny incisions (of only about 1-tenth of an inch) are made near the cheeks, under the eye, or most commonly, above the gum line. From there, the implant is inserted into either the malar or sub-malar region depending on the goal of surgery. The incisions are closed up with sutures following the procedure’s completion. The full surgery may take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. All implants require a confidential consultation with Dr. Steinbrech before surgery. Each implant is created by Dr. Steinbrech’s team using medical-grade material that mimics the look and feel of natural bone.
Who is a Good Candidate for Cheek Implant Surgery?
The best candidates for cheek augmentation surgery are patients seeking correction of an indistinct or weak cheekbone structure. Cheek implants are often chosen because they offer dramatic yet subtle results. As men age, they lose natural volume in their cheeks and face which can create a “hollow” look. Synthetic cheek implants are also ideal for patients seeking to reverse undesirable facial contours due to genetics. Men in good health are typically good candidates for cheek implants, especially those looking to improve:
- Deep nasolabial folds
- Hollow cheeks
- Sunken under eyes
- Aging facial skin
- Sagging jowls
Recovery Time
During recovery, patients can return home the same day. Though some moderate swelling around the cheekbones can persist for 2 to 3 days, this usually subsides thereafter. After the 2-week mark, visible signs of swelling should be resolved entirely. However, it may take up a month for all swelling to fully disappear. Dr. Steinbrech may prescribe medication or anti-inflammatories following surgery to make one’s recovery time more comfortable. Sutures in the mouth dissolve but patients are required to make minor adjustments to their oral hygiene routine as the incisions heal. In addition, it is advised that patients stick to a soft diet for the first day. Following this, it is recommended to avoid sharp or hard foods for 1 to 2 months.
Douglas S. Steinbrech, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon that specializes in male aesthetics. Dr. Steinbrech is certified by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and a diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery. 
