Can A Submalar Implant Restore The Volume Lost From A Buccal Lipectomy?

Q: Dr. Eppley,  I had my buccal fat pad extracted a few years back when I was younger. I liked the look initially, but it has now made me look a little too gaunt.

Anyway, I’m looking to add more volume back to the buccal region. I’m not sure how to describe it, but imagine pressing a couple of fingers diagonally up below the cheek bones.

The question is, I’m not sure what route to go for volume restoration to the region. Personally, it seems the more logical choice would be to replace like with like and to use fat injections to the region. However, I’ve read some doctors advocate the use of submalar implants.

In your opinion, which would present with the better result?

A: By far and away, the best approach is the submalar implant combined with a little fat injection around it. The submalar implant covers the upper half of the buccal space but not the lower half. So depending upon the extent of the buccal deficiency, fat injections may or may not be needed.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana