1VIC

Cheek augmentation

Treatment Effect

- Surgical fillers: For procedures such as autologous fat grafting to the apple cheeks, once the fat survives, the results are relatively long-lasting. This technique creates a naturally full appearance for the apple cheeks, softens facial contours, and reduces signs of facial fatigue. Hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate results, quickly improving hollowed apple cheeks; however, the effects typically last around 6 to 12 months, after which reinjection is required.

- Non-surgical options: Using facial massage devices may promote blood circulation and muscle tightening in the apple cheek area to some extent, resulting in a slight lifting effect. However, the results are generally less noticeable and require consistent long-term use.

Is this suitable for me?

This procedure is suitable for individuals with indistinct or sunken apple cheeks, which can make the face appear flat and lacking in dimension; it is also appropriate for middle-aged and elderly individuals experiencing gradual sagging and atrophy of the apple cheeks due to aging. However, it is not recommended for those with facial inflammation or infection, individuals with uncontrolled severe systemic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Select Device

Selecting Devices

If you opt for non-surgical, device-assisted treatments to enhance the apple cheeks, choose reputable devices with proper certifications. For instance, when considering facial massagers featuring microcurrent stimulation or radiofrequency functions, verify whether they have relevant approvals from the National Medical Products Administration and if clinical studies support their efficacy in lifting the apple cheeks.

Select Brand

Selecting Devices

If opting for non-surgical, device-assisted treatments to enhance the apple cheeks, it is essential to choose reputable devices with proper certifications. For instance, when considering facial massagers featuring microcurrent stimulation or radiofrequency functions, verify whether they have received relevant approvals from the National Medical Products Administration and if there are clinical studies demonstrating their efficacy in lifting the apple cheeks.

Price

Price

The cost of apple cheek augmentation varies significantly depending on the method used. For hyaluronic acid fillers, prices generally range from 420,000 to 1,400,000 KRW, depending on the brand and dosage. Autologous fat grafting typically costs between 700,000 and 2,800,000 KRW, covering expenses for liposuction, fat processing, and injection. Non-surgical device-based treatments range from a few hundred thousand to several million KRW.

Expected Outcome

Expected Results

Surgical filler procedures generally yield more noticeable and long-lasting results, but may require a certain recovery period. With autologous fat grafting, there may be some swelling and absorption post-operatively, with stable results typically visible after 3 to 6 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers show immediate results, but these gradually diminish over time. Non-surgical methods have relatively limited effects, and one should not expect dramatic changes comparable to those achieved through surgery.

Combination Therapy

Combined Treatment

Apple cheek augmentation can be combined with other aesthetic procedures to achieve better results. For instance, when combined with facial lifting procedures, filling the apple cheeks first to add volume, followed by a facelift surgery, can result in a tighter and more defined overall facial contour. It can also be combined with skin whitening and rejuvenation treatments to improve facial skin tone and texture.

Adverse Effects and Complications

Side Effects and Complications

- Hyaluronic acid fillers: Localized swelling, pain, and bruising may occur, but these symptoms typically resolve on their own within a few days. In rare cases, severe complications such as allergic reactions or vascular embolism may arise, potentially leading to skin necrosis or blindness.

- Autologous fat grafting: Post-operative issues such as fat liquefaction or infection may occur, resulting in local indurations or cysts. Additionally, fat survival rates vary among individuals; if the survival rate is low, a secondary filler procedure may be required.

Beyond the side effects mentioned above, unnatural facial expressions may occur, particularly when an excessive amount of hyaluronic acid is used or the injection placement is inaccurate. Furthermore, the skin in the treated area may become more sensitive after the procedure, making it more susceptible to external irritants.

Select Instrument

Selecting a Device

In addition to checking certifications and proof of efficacy as mentioned earlier, consider factors such as ease of use and safety. You can refer to reviews from other users and recommendations from professionals to choose a device that suits your skin type and needs.

Project Contraindications

Project Contraindications

In addition to the previously mentioned facial inflammation, systemic diseases, pregnancy, and lactation, individuals allergic to filler materials are also unsuitable for corresponding filler procedures. Furthermore, those with excessively high psychological expectations or unrealistic fantasies about surgical outcomes are not advised to undergo apple cheek augmentation.

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Contraindications

In addition to the previously mentioned facial inflammation, systemic diseases, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, individuals allergic to filler materials are also unsuitable for corresponding filler procedures. Furthermore, individuals with excessively high psychological expectations or unrealistic fantasies about surgical outcomes are not recommended to undergo apple cheek augmentation.

Side effects

Side Effects

In addition to the aforementioned side effects, unnatural facial expressions may occur, particularly when an excessive amount of hyaluronic acid filler is used or when the injection site is inaccurate. Furthermore, the local skin may become more sensitive post-procedure, making it susceptible to external irritants.

Self-Symptom Check

Symptom Self-Diagnosis

If symptoms such as localized redness and swelling, increased pain, fever, or changes in skin color occur after apple cheek augmentation, it may indicate an infection or other complications, and medical attention should be sought promptly. If hard lumps or unevenness appear in the apple cheek area for a period of time after filling, it may be caused by fat liquefaction or uneven filling.

Select treatment plan

Selecting a Treatment Plan

When choosing a treatment plan, communicate thoroughly with your doctor to understand the advantages and disadvantages, risks, and recovery periods of various options. The doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your facial features, physical condition, and other factors. You should make your selection in accordance with your individual circumstances.