How To

How to Prepare for a Cheek Augmentation

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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High cheekbones are a symbol of beauty in many cultures around the world. Cheek augmentation surgery, or malarplasty, involves the use of implants to sculpt the cheeks and jaws.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

    Prepare for a Cheek Augmentation

  1. Step 1

    Prepare to be tested. Before your surgery, routine laboratory tests such as blood chemistries and blood counts may be required.

  2. Step 2

    Discuss the incision point with your doctor. To augment your cheeks, your doctor will place an implant over your cheekbone, via an incision made inside the mouth, on your scalp or just under your lower eyelashes. If you have a preference in this matter, share it with your doctor.

  3. Step 3

    Expect the stitches used to close your incision to dissolve within 7 to 14 days.

  4. Step 4

    Keep your doctor informed. If your cheek augmentation will be inserted via an incision made inside your mouth, let your doctor know if you're a smoker, or if you have gum or dental issues.

  5. Step 5

    Create a recovery area. Black out your windows using a blanket to allow you to get some sleep during the day. Set up a TV within viewing distance of your bed so you can keep yourself entertained.

  6. Step 6

    Stock up on laxatives. Pain medications can have a binding effect, and you'll need laxatives to keep you regular.

  7. Step 7

    Prepare cold compresses to help address swelling that may develop in the days following your procedure. Fill plastic sandwich bags with frozen peas and keep a supply in your freezer.

  8. Step 8

    Expect communication challenges. It's normal to have difficulty speaking and smiling in the days just after your cheek augmentation surgery.

  9. Step 9

    Fill your pantry with soups and juices. If your surgery involved incisions made within the mouth, you may be placed on a liquid diet until your wounds are sufficiently healed. Discuss your diet and appropriate dental hygiene with your doctor.

  10. Step 10

    Plan to be away from work for about a week as you recover. Plan on abstaining from exercise for about 2 weeks. You'll have to avoid contact sports for several weeks.

Tips & Warnings
  • Cheek augmentation typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. It is usually performed under local anesthesia.
  • Understand the risks of cheek augmentation. These include infection, a reaction to the anesthesia, hematoma, seroma, bleeding, asymmetry, nerve damage and bone erosion. Extrusion may occur, where the implant making its way to the skin's surface. Capsular contracture may develop. In these cases, the scar tissue tightens excessively, causing the implant to become distorted.

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