How to inject dermal fillers in cheeks is a popular cosmetic procedure to enhance facial contours, restore lost volume, and create a youthful appearance. Cheek augmentation with dermal fillers can be a relatively simple yet highly effective treatment when done by a skilled practitioner. This article will guide you through the process, from understanding the injection sites to the specific techniques used for mid-cheek filler application. We will also explore the dramatic transformations that can occur, with before and after comparisons.
Cheek Filler Injection Sites
Understanding the proper cheek filler injection sites is key to achieving natural and aesthetically pleasing results. The cheeks are divided into various anatomical areas, each contributing differently to the overall facial structure. Here are the main zones for cheek filler injections:
Zygomatic Arch
The zygomatic arch, commonly known as the cheekbone, is a primary target for cheek filler injections. Enhancing this area helps to accentuate the natural contour of the cheek, giving the face a more defined and sculpted appearance. By injecting filler along the arch, practitioners can enhance the natural contour of the cheekbone, giving the face a more sculpted look. This area typically benefits from firmer, more viscous fillers to maintain the lift and structure.
Submalar Region (Below the Cheekbone)
Injections in the submalar area target volume loss that commonly occurs with aging. This area is well-suited for fillers designed to restore volume and fullness to the midface, which can help lift sagging skin and soften the appearance of nasolabial folds, the lines that extend from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
Anterior Cheek
The anterior cheek is located in the front part of the cheek, close to the center of the face. This zone is important for creating overall facial balance. Injecting filler here softens the transition between the under-eye area and the cheeks, improving the appearance of tear troughs and hollows under the eyes.
Lateral Cheek
Injecting into the lateral cheek helps create width and volume in the outer portion of the face. Enhancing overall cheek volume in this area creates the appearance of a lifted, more youthful face, contributing to a refreshed and revitalized look.
Nasojugal Groove
This area, also known as the tear trough, is where the cheek meets the lower eyelid. Filler injected here can help improve the tired, sunken look that some people experience due to volume loss or genetic factors.
Each of these areas requires a different filler type and injection technique, which is why understanding the anatomy and injection sites is crucial for successful outcomes.
Mid Cheek Filler Technique
The mid cheek filler technique is one of the most commonly used approaches in dermal filler treatments for the cheeks. This technique focuses on restoring volume and creating a natural lift in the midface area, which tends to lose fullness due to aging, weight loss, or genetics. Below is an overview of the process and considerations for this technique.
Assessment and Planning
Before the injection, a thorough assessment of the patient’s face is essential. The practitioner will evaluate facial symmetry, volume loss, skin texture, and the desired outcome. Understanding the patient’s natural facial anatomy and movement patterns will help guide where the filler should be injected and how much should be used.
Choosing the Right Filler
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvederm or Restylane are often used for mid-cheek augmentation because they provide natural results and can be dissolved if necessary. The density and viscosity of the filler will depend on the specific needs of the patient. A denser filler is typically used for deeper injection sites to provide more support and structure, while a lighter filler is better suited for more superficial placements to create a smoother, more natural finish.
Injection Techniques
Linear threading technique: This method involves inserting the needle or cannula and injecting the filler as it is withdrawn. This creates a smooth, even distribution of filler, which helps achieve natural contours.
Fanning technique: The injector inserts the needle into a central point and then fans out multiple threads of filler in different directions. This is useful for creating volume and lift across a larger area.
Bolus technique: For more significant volume enhancement, the bolus technique places a larger amount of filler in a specific area. This is often used in the submalar region to address severe volume loss.
Cannula vs. Needle
Both needles and cannulas can be used for cheek filler injections. Cannulas are blunt-tipped and generally considered safer because they are less likely to puncture blood vessels. They also allow for fewer entry points, reducing the risk of bruising. However, needles offer more precision, especially when injecting small amounts of filler in targeted areas.
Layered Approach
Injecting the filler in layers, from deeper tissues to more superficial areas, helps ensure even distribution and long-lasting results. A layered approach also allows the practitioner to fine-tune the results, gradually building up volume until the desired outcome is achieved.
Post-Injection Care
After the injection, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the treated areas. It’s important to avoid applying pressure to the area, including sleeping on the side of the face or wearing tight hats, for at least 24-48 hours. Most swelling resolves within a few days, but full results are usually visible after about two weeks.
Cheek Filler Before and After
The cheek filler before and after transformation is often quite striking, with immediate improvements visible after the treatment. However, it’s important to note that the final results will fully settle after a few weeks as any swelling subsides and the filler integrates with the tissue.
Immediate Results
Right after the procedure, patients will typically see an immediate improvement in their cheek volume and contour. The cheeks will appear fuller and more defined, with noticeable lifting effects in the midface region. Despite some initial swelling, most patients are thrilled with the instant transformation.
Subtle Enhancements
Dermal fillers provide subtle, natural-looking enhancements. The key is not to overfill the area, as exaggerated results can look unnatural. A well-done cheek filler procedure will enhance the facial contours without making it obvious that any work was done. The goal is to create a youthful appearance with balanced proportions.
MORE: Botox Before and After Crow’s Feet
Long-Term Results
Depending on the type of filler used, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers tend to be more temporary, while newer formulations or more robust fillers may last longer. Periodic touch-ups can help maintain the desired look, as the body will gradually break down and absorb the filler over time.
Common Before and After Changes
Volume restoration: Patients with hollow or sunken cheeks due to age or weight loss often see a dramatic improvement in volume, making their face look fuller and more youthful.
Improved facial symmetry: Uneven or asymmetrical cheeks can be corrected with targeted injections, helping the face appear more balanced.
Reduction in wrinkles: Volume loss in the cheeks often contributes to deeper wrinkles and folds around the mouth and nose. By restoring volume in the midface, cheek fillers can also reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds and marionette lines.
Patient Satisfaction
The vast majority of patients are satisfied with their cheek filler results, especially when performed by a skilled practitioner. The non-permanent nature of dermal fillers also allows for flexibility, as adjustments can be made during follow-up appointments to fine-tune the results.
Conclusion
Knowing how to inject dermal fillers in cheeks requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy, proper technique, and aesthetic judgment. From identifying the correct injection sites to mastering mid-cheek filler techniques, achieving beautiful, natural-looking results is both an art and a science. The before and after transformations demonstrate the power of cheek fillers to enhance facial contours, restore volume, and create a rejuvenated appearance that can last for months to years with proper care.
To stay updated with essential beauty tips and information from Luna Beauty Academy, follow us and check back regularly for the latest insights. We’re dedicated to providing you with the most valuable and current knowledge in the beauty industry!
