Headquarters:
1804 Woodfield Drive
Savoy, IL 61874
(217) 359-7508
Other Illinois facilities:
2409 E. Washington Street
Bloomington, IL 61704
(309) 662-0436
(800) 252-7123
within IL only
High cheekbones are generally considered a sign of beauty, giving the appearance of youth and vitality. Although we have been utilizing cheek bone augmentation for many years in reconstructive surgery, it has been within the past 12 to 17 years that cosmetic surgeons have recognized how this procedure can be used to transform a relatively flat mid face into a more attractive appearance. Although cheekbone surgery is often indicated as a solitary procedure, it is frequently combined with other cosmetic operations to enhance the overall effect of surgery.
Cheekbone implants are made of a hard silastic material that is also used for pacemakers and other implants.
The operation consists of insertion of a properly sized implant through a small incision made within the mouth. The incision is made above the gum line on either side. A small tunnel is created and the graft is inserted. It is temporarily held in place by a suture, which is passed up into the hairline and removed two to four days after the operation. The operation is performed under “twilight anesthesia,” and is carried out in our accredited operating suite.
There is moderate swelling and discomfort associated with the procedure lasting only a few days. The main risk of the operation is that the implant may not be tolerated. Fortunately, this is very rare and even when it occurs, the implant can often be removed and replaced again with good results. Infection can occur but it also is rare and usually responds to antibiotics. Routine activities and work can be resumed within 3 days.
Cheekbone augmentation is a relatively new and exciting procedure that is rapidly gaining in popularity. The operation is relatively simple and safe and justly deserves its growing demand.
