Cheek Filler

Cheek fillers are injectable cosmetics that add volume to the cheeks. These injections are  minimally invasive, relatively painless, and extremely popular. Cheek fillers smooth and lift, giving the appearance of higher cheekbones and a well-rested, youthful appearance. 

Because they’re injectable, they can be strategically placed for results that are customized to the patient’s unique facial features and aesthetic desires.  

If you’re interested in treating your face to a “pick-me-up”, cheek fillers are an excellent choice for revitalizing your appearance. Dr. Ricardo Bonnor is a double board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Schedule your personal consultation at Texas Surgical Arts to learn more about looking your best. You can reach our Houston offices by calling (281) 579-5638.  

Full Cheeks

There are two key elements considered responsible for the appearance of age.  As we grow older, the very structure of our faces changes. Skeletal changes shift the proportions of our facial bones. Additionally, our soft tissue diminishes, leading to the loss of facial volume. Along with increasing skin laxity, facial features begin to lose their dynamic dimensions and definition. The small deposits of facial fat that give us plump lips and firm youthful cheeks begin to deteriorate. To make matters worse, a recent study determined that this subcutaneous facial fat is partitioned into multiple, independent compartments – which all age at their own rate, resulting in dramatic changes to our youthful contours. ⁽¹⁾

A Sculptural Solution 

But even if you’re only in your 20’s, 30’s or 40’s, there are still several reasons to consider cheek fillers. Contouring makeup was a touchstone cosmetic trend, and there are good reasons why. Emphasizing certain facial features can improve the overall proportions of the face, and dramatically improve its entire appearance. Adding volume to the cheeks gently lifts the lower face for more appealing contours throughout. ⁽²⁾ 

About Voluma

Voluma is a specialized formula in the Juvederm line of fillers that is specifically designed for the cheeks. In the world of fillers, everything has its place. The smooth, clear gel in Juvederm injectables uses Hyaluronic Acid as their key ingredient, and the popularity of this product speaks for itself. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported that 2,619,650 hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler treatments were performed in 2020 alone (out of a total of 3,410,730). ⁽³⁾ Popular? That’s slightly more than the entire population of Houston. 

About Hyaluronic Acid

You might already be familiar with the hyaluronic acid in your serums or facial moisturizers. And, there’s a reason for that: our bodies naturally produce it. In fact, it’s crucial for different parts of our anatomy, like our eyes, joints, and skin. Its job is to bind water molecules to collagen to keep things hydrated and smooth.  In the skin, it provides hydrating volume while binding collagen and elastin fibers into a supportive and protective matrix to improve the skin’s structure. ⁽⁴⁾ 

The molecular structure of the hyaluronic acid (HA) in Voluma is engineered so that this gel is the perfect firm thickness and light weight for the cheeks. Additionally, it’s designed to last longer than our naturally produced HA, which the body quickly breaks down. ⁽¹⁾

And although you’ll notice some results immediately after your injections, the volume of your face will continue to improve in the coming months. HA stimulates the production of collagen under the skin, which means firmer, healthier skin that’s more wrinkle resistant.

Candidates

Candidates for cheek fillers are in good health and over 25 years of age. Dermal fillers are not for those who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have active acne or another skin outbreak, wait until your skin has healed.  

Personal Consultation

During your personal consultation, you’ll meet with Dr. Bonnor to learn more about cheek fillers and how they may benefit your appearance. Our goal is to achieve beautiful enhancements that enhance each patient’s unique facial structure. We will review your medical history and examine your face to determine whether Voluma or another cosmetic procedure will provide the best results. If you’re ready to get started, contact our office and schedule a consultation.

Preparation

There’s little preparation required before an appointment to receive cheek fillers. Your cheek filler procedure is a series of quick injections. Avoid any blood-thinning medication or alcohol in the days before and after your injections to avoid excess bleeding or bruising. It’s also important to be gentle to your skin before and after your appointment. Discontinue retinoids and skin care regimens containing strong acids about a week prior to injections. Also avoid excessive sun exposure and other harsh facial treatments to minimize your risk of irritation. 

Procedure and Recovery

Dr. Bonnor will personally administer your cheek injections, making sure your results are subtle but effective, without that “done” look. Avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for the next day, and sleep in a position that will put pressure on your face. Also, refrain from touching your face for the next day or two to avoid the risk of infection. 

Results

Voluma delivers real results to patients of all ages looking for more dynamic facial contours:.

Patients who receive cheek filler injections enjoy:

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures 

Dermal fillers are the second most popular minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure in the United States. Botox is number one. This injectable eliminates the dynamic wrinkles caused by facial muscle movement. This neuromodulator works by limiting the contraction of facial muscles that would otherwise cause unwanted wrinkles. Botox prevents forehead lines, crows feet, and other unwanted creases for 3-6 months. It’s FDA approved for safety, efficacy, and high levels of patient satisfaction. It also has the unique ability to prevent excessive sweating in areas like the hands, feet, and armpits for those who suffer from hyperhidrosis.

Many younger patients choose Botox as a preventative measure. Less muscle movement helps to prevent future wrinkles from forming. For example, avoiding a furrowed brow avoids the dreaded “11’s” from forming between the eyebrows. 

How Much Does Voluma Cheek Filler Cost in Houston?

The cost of your cheek fillers will depend on the number of injections, amount of filler needed to achieve your ideal results.  

References

1. Muhn, C. (2012). The evolving role of hyaluronic acid fillers for facial volume restoration and contouring: a Canadian overview. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 147. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s30794
2. Li, D., Wang, X., Wu, Y., Sun, J., Li, Q., Guo, S., Jia, Y., & Murphy, D. K. (2017). A Randomized, Controlled, Multicenter Study of Juvéderm Voluma for Enhancement of Malar Volume in Chinese Subjects. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 139(6). https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000003355
3. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2020 National Plastic Surgery Statistics. ; 2021. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2020/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2020.pdf
4. Brandt, F. S., & Cazzaniga, A. (2008). Hyaluronic acid gel fillers in the management of facial aging. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 3(1), 153–159. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2544360/
5. Pavicic, T., & Funt, D. (2013). Dermal fillers in aesthetics: an overview of adverse events and treatment approaches. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 6, 295. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s50546