Sunken cheeks can give your face a gaunt, aged appearance and may also be a sign of other health problems such as chronic illness. They occur when the fat compartments in the cheek are reduced, often as a result of ageing which degrades collagen and leads to diminished facial volume. Sunken cheeks also have the potential to make other signs of ageing such as prominent jowls and nose-to-mouth lines appear more prominent.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to achieve plump, rounder cheeks without undergoing an invasive surgical procedure. There are several dermal filler options that can be used for reducing the appearance of sunken cheeks, most notably Restylane and JUVEDERM VOLUMATM XC. These injectables are safe for most people and can be administered in a quick and convenient office setting. They offer instant results that last for up to a year.
Another way to reduce the appearance of sunken cheeks is through facial exercises. However, it is essential to understand that the face muscles will become stronger with repeated use, which can lead to a "gym-face" appearance. It is best to consult with an experienced face surgeon before undertaking any facial exercise.
A more permanent solution for achieving fuller cheeks is a facial fat graft. This surgery involves your surgeon collecting fatty tissue from another area of your body such as the stomach or thighs through liposuction. This fatty tissue is then purified to remove any water or debris before it is injected into the area around your sunken cheeks. This will add a much-needed boost of volume and can also help to improve the skin quality near the graft.