Cheek Implants

Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026

Quick Answer

Cheek implants are solid artificial materials surgically added to the cheek area to improve fullness and definition. They are commonly made of silicone or porous polyethylene and secured to the cheekbone. The procedure suits healthy non-smokers seeking a permanent alternative to fillers. Surgery takes up to an hour under general anesthesia, and most patients return to work within a week.

What the research says

• Small studies report low complication rates with porous polyethylene malar implants. A retrospective study of 24 high-density porous polyethylene facial implants in 14 patients (8 of them malar implants), followed for a mean of 41 months, recorded no hematoma, infection, migration, or reduced sensation. Two implants were removed because of early unsatisfactory aesthetic results, and 82% of the 11 patients who answered the questionnaire strongly agreed the overall outcome was satisfactory. The implants were placed alongside orthognathic (jaw) surgery, and the sample is small (PubMed: Lutz et al., J Oral Maxillofac Surg, 2020) [2].

• Custom-made malar implants also showed few complications in a short follow-up. In 35 consecutive patients having facial feminization surgery, 33 received custom polyetheretherketone (PEEK) malar implants. One patient needed antibiotics for self-resolving redness, and no implants had to be removed or revised over a median follow-up of 8 months. These were custom implants rather than standard silicone ones, and follow-up was short (PubMed: Tooulou et al., J Craniofac Surg, 2026) [3].

• Infection and exposure remain the main concern with implant materials. A review of reconstruction of the bony frame around the eye and cheek noted that synthetic (alloplastic) materials have variable success, mainly because of a high risk of infection or exposure. This review covers complex reconstruction after trauma, tumor surgery, or congenital deformity rather than cosmetic cheek augmentation (PubMed: Reiss et al., J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg, 2024) [4].

What types of cheek implants are there?

Cheek implants are used to address various aesthetic concerns, from age-related volume loss to congenital facial structures. Surgeons typically categorize these implants based on their placement and the specific area of the cheek they enhance. By selecting the appropriate type, patients can achieve either a subtle restoration of volume or a more pronounced, angular bone structure.

Implant Type	Placement Area	Primary Aesthetic Goal
Submalar	Below the cheekbones, in the hollow of the mid-cheek	Corrects a sunken or hollow appearance.
Malar	Directly on the cheekbones	Creates a defined, angular bone structure.
Combination	Both submalar and malar areas	Provides comprehensive volume and definition.

Why do people choose cheek implants?

Individuals opt for cheek implants for several functional and cosmetic reasons. While many seek the procedure to restore a youthful appearance that has diminished with age, others use it to correct facial asymmetry or to improve definition after an injury or trauma. The permanent nature of implants makes them a popular choice for those who wish to avoid the recurring maintenance and costs associated with temporary dermal fillers.

Candidates for the procedure should be in good physical health, should not smoke, and should maintain realistic expectations. Cleveland Clinic lists a body mass index (BMI) over 25, diabetes, blood or bone disorders, and very thin skin as factors that make someone a poorer candidate, because they can interfere with healing. Your surgeon will review your full medical history to decide whether the procedure is right for you.

Figure 1: The surgical placement of submalar and malar implants relative to the cheekbone and facial structure.

How is cheek implant surgery performed?

The cheek implant procedure is a relatively quick surgical intervention, typically lasting up to about one hour. It is generally performed under general anesthesia, so the patient is asleep and comfortable throughout. To minimize visible scarring, surgeons usually make incisions inside the mouth or occasionally just beneath the lower eyelid.

Once the incision is made, the surgeon inserts the implant and secures it to the cheekbone. Finally, the incisions are closed with stitches. Because the primary entry point is usually inside the mouth, external scarring is minimal, allowing for a discreet and natural-looking result.

Figure 2: The surgical steps, from anesthesia and internal incisions to securing the implant and closing the incision.

What is recovery like after cheek implant surgery?

As an outpatient procedure, patients can return home on the same day as their surgery. Initial recovery involves managing temporary soreness, tightness, and swelling, which typically settle over several weeks to a month. If the incisions were made inside the mouth, patients might need to follow a liquid diet for up to a week and use a special mouth rinse to maintain hygiene and help prevent infection.

Most patients can return to work within about a week. However, strenuous physical activity should be avoided for several weeks, and patients are advised to avoid sleeping on their face for a few weeks after surgery so the implants remain properly positioned during healing.

Figure 3: The long-term benefits of cheek augmentation compared with the potential clinical risks and recovery considerations.

What are the risks of cheek implants?

Risk	What It Means
Infection	Bacteria can colonize the implant or incision, which may require antibiotics or removal of the implant
Bleeding	Bleeding or a collection of blood can occur around the implant after surgery
Numbness	Altered sensation in the cheek or upper lip area
Chronic pain	Ongoing discomfort that continues after healing
Implant shifting (migration)	The implant moves out of position, which can cause lumpiness or an asymmetrical look

Conclusion

Cheek implants provide a lasting method for enhancing facial contours and restoring midface volume. By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon and following proper recovery guidance, patients can work toward a more balanced and youthful appearance. While the implants are permanent, the surgery is reversible, offering a flexible yet lasting option for those seeking facial rejuvenation.

Consult your provider: If you are considering cheek implants, consult with an experienced plastic surgeon to determine the best implant type for your facial structure. Always disclose your full medical history and follow all pre-operative guidelines to ensure a safe and successful outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are cheek implants made of?

Cheek implants are typically made of medical-grade synthetic materials like silicone or porous polyethylene (Medpor®).

2. How long does the surgery take?

Cheek implant surgery is generally a quick procedure that takes up to about one hour to complete.

3. Are the results permanent?

Yes, cheek implants are a permanent solution for facial volume, although the surgery is reversible and the implants can be surgically removed if necessary.

4. Where are the incisions located?

Incisions are most commonly made inside the mouth or under the lower eyelid, which keeps external scarring minimal.

5. How long is the recovery time?

Most patients can return to work within about one week, though redness and swelling may take several weeks to a month to resolve.

6. Will I have visible scars?

Because incisions are usually made inside the mouth, scarring is minimal. Incisions under the lower eyelid may leave a fine scar that your surgeon can describe in advance.

7. Can I choose different sizes or shapes?

Yes, implants come in various types (submalar, malar, or combination) and sizes to fit your specific facial goals.

8. Is the procedure painful?

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Post-operative soreness is managed with medication.

9. When can I see the final results?

Initial results are visible immediately, but the final appearance will be clear once the post-operative swelling has fully subsided.

10. What are the main risks?

Potential risks include infection, bleeding, numbness, chronic pain, or shifting (migration) of the implant, which can cause lumpiness or an asymmetrical look.

11. How do I prepare for cheek implant surgery?

You'll start with a consultation where your plastic surgeon discusses your goals and medical history and may photograph your cheeks to compare with your results later. [1] Follow all of your surgeon's instructions so you're ready on the day of surgery. [1] You may need to adjust your medications, but don't stop any without your surgeon's guidance. [1] Avoid anti-inflammatory medicines and herbal supplements that increase bleeding, and quit smoking before the procedure. [1]

12. When should I call my doctor after cheek implant surgery?

Some soreness or tightness in your cheeks is normal after cheek implant surgery, and redness and swelling can take several weeks to a month to settle. [1] Contact your surgeon right away if you have bleeding, excessive swelling, a fever or other symptoms that worry you. [1] Seek immediate medical attention for chest pain, an irregular or abnormal heartbeat, or shortness of breath. [1] You'll also have a scheduled follow-up appointment so your surgeon can check how you're healing. [1]

Related Reading

Buccal Fat Removal: Procedure, Recovery and Results explains cheek reduction surgery.

Enhancing Facial Definition: A Guide to Jaw Implants explains how silicone jaw implants add definition to the lower face, plus recovery and risks.

References

1. Cleveland Clinic. Cheek Implants: Types, Surgery & Recovery, What To Expect. Cleveland Clinic. Nov. 17, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/cheek-implants

2. Lutz JC, Assouline Vitale LS, Graillon N, Foletti JM, Schouman T. Standard and customized alloplastic facial implants refining orthognathic surgery: outcome evaluation. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2020;78(10):1832.e1-1832.e12. PMID 32574606. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joms.2020.05.009

3. Tooulou M, Bradley D, Drew G, Liang F. Quantitative assessment of midface feminization using custom-designed malar implants. J Craniofac Surg. 2026. PMID 42766436. https://doi.org/10.1097/SCS.0000000000013433

4. Reiss S, Kulker D, Laure B, Paré A. Reconstruction of the orbitozygomatic framework: state of the art and perspectives. J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2024;125(6):101788. PMID 38281701. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jormas.2024.101788

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.