Will A Cheeklift Fix Sagging After Cheek Implant Removals?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am writing to seek your expert opinion regarding my situation and potential corrective options. I had cheek implants placed via an intraoral approach and wore them for two months before having them removed. I am now three months post-removal and have noticed a significant change in my midface — specifically a loss of cheek definition, with the tissue appearing heavier and fuller than it was prior to the implants.

My primary questions are: 

– Do you suspect I will see improvement in the coming months or will it be minimal? 

– What procedure would you recommend to help restore my pre-implant appearance? 

I have come across one of your previous responses in which you mentioned that an endoscopic cheek lift would be the most appropriate intervention in a scenario like this. Would you still consider that the best option in my case, or would a mini SMAS/midface lift be more suitable?

I have attached two photos of before the implants and two photos from now, 3 months after removal.

A: Your situation is classic and is exactly what one can expect when cheek implants are removed…cheek sagging due to loss of osteocutaneous ligament attachments. That situation is now fully established and there will be no further resolution of it. 

You are not going to restore your preoperative appearance exactly. Some form of a cheek lift will help but one never go fully back home so to speak. Such a cheeklift can be done numerous ways and there is not exactly ideal approach to it.

Dr Barry Eppley

Plastic Surgeon