According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, cheek implants are one of the most popular procedures among people in their 30s and 40s.

High cheekbones have become a beauty standard, often associated with a youthful and sculpted appearance. If you’re wondering how to get more defined cheekbones, various methods exist to achieve your desired look.

Today, we’re taking a closer look into the top cheek contouring options, from non-surgical techniques like makeup and fillers to surgical procedures such as implants. Discover the best way to enhance your cheekbones and achieve a more sculpted appearance.

The Role of Cheekbones in Facial Aesthetics

There are three primary reasons why cheekbones play a crucial role in facial aesthetics. They are:

• Facial symmetry and balance
• Youthful appearance
• The overall structure of the face

Facial Symmetry and Balance

Cheekbones are often seen as a marker of beauty because they help create facial symmetry. When well-defined, cheekbones balance other facial features like the eyes, nose, and jawline.

The balance is a significant factor in how we perceive attractiveness. High cheekbones can make the face appear more harmonious and proportionate, so they’re often associated with beauty.

Enhancing a Youthful Appearance

As we age, we naturally lose volume in our cheeks, leading to a sunken look. Defined cheekbones can counteract this effect by creating the illusion of fullness, giving the face a lifted and youthful appearance.

People often seek cheek contouring to maintain or restore this youthful look. Defined cheekbones can also make the skin appear tighter and less saggy, further enhancing one’s youthful appearance.

Defining the Face’s Structure

Cheekbones are essential in giving the face its shape. They create contours that add depth and dimension to the face, making it appear more structured and sculpted.

Without prominent cheekbones, the face can look flat or round, lacking the definition that many find desirable. Enhancing the cheekbones can significantly change the overall appearance, making the face look more refined and chiseled.

How to Get More Defined Cheekbones: Non-surgical Options

There are non-surgical cheek contouring options that offer a different approach to enhancing cheekbones. Some of the most popular ones are:

• Dermal Fillers
• Thread Lifts
• Fat Grafting

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a common choice for those who want to add volume and definition to their cheeks without going under the knife. The fillers, often made from hyaluronic acid, are injected into the cheek area to create a fuller, more lifted appearance.

The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking less than an hour, and results are visible almost immediately. The effects of dermal fillers can last from several months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it. Since it’s a non-surgical option, there is minimal downtime.

Thread Lifts

Thread lifts offer another non-surgical method to contour the cheeks. The procedure involves the insertion of thin threads under the skin, which are then pulled tight to lift and define the cheekbones. The threads provide an immediate lifting effect and stimulate collagen production over time, enhancing the skin’s firmness and texture.

Thread lifts are often chosen by people who want more noticeable results than fillers can offer but are not ready for surgical intervention. The procedure is typically done in a clinic and requires minimal downtime, with most people returning to their regular activities within a few days.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, is a technique where fat is taken from one part of the body and injected into the cheeks to enhance their volume and contour. The method appeals to those who prefer a natural approach, as it uses their own fat instead of synthetic materials.

The procedure involves two steps: first, fat is harvested from an area like the abdomen or thighs through liposuction. Then, it’s purified and injected into the cheeks.

Fat grafting can provide long-lasting results, often for many years, as the transferred fat integrates with the surrounding tissues.

Surgical Cheek Contouring Options

There are three primary surgical options for contouring the cheeks. Each of these options provides a more permanent solution for enhancing cheekbones compared to non-surgical methods:

• Cheek Implants
• Buccal Fat Removal
• Combination Procedures

Cheek Implants

Cheek implants are a popular surgical option for those seeking a long-lasting enhancement of their cheekbones. The procedure involves the placement of solid implants over the cheekbones to create more definition and volume.

The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and can take about one to two hours. During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision to insert the implants, often inside the mouth or along the lower eyelid.

The results are immediate, and since the implants are permanent, they provide a lasting solution for individuals looking to achieve more defined cheekbones.

However, there are risks involved with cheekbone augmentation options, such as infection or implant displacement. Most people can return to their normal activities within a week or two.

Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal is another surgical option that can enhance cheekbones by reducing the fat in the lower part of the face. The procedure is ideal for individuals who have a round or full face and want a more contoured look.

During the surgery, the surgeon removes the buccal fat pads in the cheeks through small incisions inside the mouth. It reduces the fullness of the lower face, making the cheekbones appear more prominent.

Buccal fat removal is a relatively quick procedure, often completed in under an hour. Recovery is usually straightforward, with most swelling subsiding within a few weeks.

Combination Procedures

Combination procedures may be the best option for those looking for a more comprehensive approach to facial contouring. It combines cheek implants with other facial surgeries, such as a facelift or rhinoplasty, to achieve a balanced and harmonious result.

Combining procedures can address multiple areas of the face at once, providing an overall rejuvenation. The approach is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to correct signs of aging or those who want to enhance several features simultaneously. While the recovery time may be longer when multiple procedures are involved, the results can be more dramatic and transformative.

At-home Cheek Contouring Techniques

Makeup is a versatile tool that can help you create the appearance of more defined cheekbones. You can sculpt your face and bring out your cheekbones by using contouring products like bronzers, highlighters, and contour sticks.

Start by applying a contour shade just below your cheekbones, blending it upward toward your temples. Then, add a highlighter on the tops of your cheekbones to accentuate their height.

Blending is the key to effective makeup contouring, ensuring that the products create a natural-looking shadow and highlight effect. With practice, makeup can give you the appearance of sculpted cheekbones in just a few minutes.

Facial Exercises

Facial exercises are another way to enhance the appearance of your cheekbones over time. The exercises focus on strengthening and toning the muscles in your face, particularly around the cheeks.

One common exercise is the “fish face,” where you suck in your cheeks and hold the position for several seconds before releasing. Repeating this exercise daily can help define your cheekbones by tightening the surrounding muscles.

While the results won’t be as dramatic as professional treatments, consistent practice can lead to a subtle improvement in the definition of your cheekbones.

Skin Care Routines

Maintaining a good skincare routine can also contribute to the appearance of more defined cheekbones. Hydrated and healthy skin tends to look firmer, making your cheekbones appear more prominent.

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and encourages cell turnover, giving your skin a fresh and smooth look. Using moisturizers and serums that promote collagen production can also improve skin elasticity, enhancing the overall contour of your face. While skincare alone won’t drastically change the shape of your cheekbones, it can support other contouring efforts by keeping your skin looking its best.

Choosing the Right Option for You

When deciding on the best way to enhance your cheekbones, there are a few factors to consider. Your goals, comfort level with procedures, and budget will play a big role in determining which option is right for you. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of non-surgical and surgical methods before making a decision.

If you’re looking for a temporary or subtle enhancement, non-surgical options like dermal fillers or thread lifts might be ideal. They offer quick results with minimal recovery time.

Non-surgical options are also less invasive, which can be appealing if you’re not ready for surgery. However, their results are not permanent and will require maintenance over time.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more permanent solution, surgical options like cheek implants or buccal fat removal might be better suited to your needs.

The procedures provide long-lasting results but come with longer recovery periods and higher costs. It’s also important to be comfortable with the idea of surgery, as it involves more risks and a greater commitment.

Consulting with a qualified professional is essential before choosing a method. They can help you assess your facial structure and recommend the most effective approach for your goals.

Whether you choose a non-surgical method for a quick boost or a surgical option for lasting change, the right procedure depends on your needs and preferences.

Risks and Considerations

When considering cheek contouring options, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved. Both non-surgical and surgical methods carry their own sets of risks and considerations. Knowing these can help you make an informed decision about which approach is right for you.

Non-Surgical Risks

Non-surgical procedures like dermal fillers and thread lifts are generally less invasive, but they’re not without risks. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort.

In rare cases, there can be complications like infections or allergic reactions. Since these treatments are temporary, you may also need multiple sessions to maintain your desired look.

Surgical Risks

While offering more permanent results, surgical options come with more significant risks. Cheek implants, buccal fat removal, and other surgical procedures require anesthesia and involve a longer recovery period.

There’s a risk of complications such as infection, scarring, or implant displacement. And some people may experience asymmetry or dissatisfaction with the final result. Recovery from surgery often takes several weeks, and during this time, you’ll need to follow specific care instructions to ensure proper healing.

Cost Comparison: Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Options

When it comes to cheek contouring, cost can be a significant factor in deciding which option is best for you. Non-surgical methods like dermal fillers and thread lifts are less expensive upfront, making them more accessible to a wider range of people.

The cost of non-surgical cheek contouring procedures can vary depending on the practitioner and location, but they are generally more affordable than surgery.

Surgical options, such as cheek implants and buccal fat removal, usually come with a higher initial cost. The procedures are more complex and require the skills of a specialized surgeon, which contributes to the higher price.

While the upfront cost may be more significant, the results are long-lasting, which means you won’t need repeated treatments. It can make surgical options more cost-effective in the long term, especially if you’re looking for a permanent solution.

It’s important to consider not only the initial cost but also the potential need for follow-up treatments and recovery time when making your decision.

Cheekbone Enhancement Tips

As you can see, there are a ton of great options when you’re looking to enhance your cheekbones. Understanding your goals and comfort level is key in choosing the right approach. Whether you’re exploring how to get more defined cheekbones with non-surgical methods or a more permanent solution, there’s an option for you!

At Atlanta Face and Body Center, our focus is on your comfort, convenience, and privacy. We’re spearheaded by the “Queen of Faces,” Elizabeth Whitaker, M.D., F.A.C.S. She’s a double board-certified Facial Plastic Surgeon and has proudly performed thousands of successful facial cosmetic procedures.

Get in touch today to find out how we can discuss your options for your cheekbones!