Cheek augmentation surgery is commonly used for cosmetic purposes. Initially, cheek augmentation was mainly used for reconstructing defects from birth or after an accident. Cosmetic surgery has quickly progressed, growing in popularity and benefiting from advances in technology. Now, cheek augmentations are used routinely to improve the appearance and prominence of an individual's cheeks.

A cheek augmentation allows a person to gain a more chiseled or defined face, with more balance often achieved. The look of high cheekbones and a thinner facial frame can be reached with a cheek augmentation for patients that were either born with a weaker cheekbone structure or for patients who have lost the fullness of their faces and now have a more sunken appearance. Since aging tends to pull facial features in a more downcast manner, a cheek augmentation can lift the overall appearance of a person's face by adding more definition without a more invasive procedure like a facelift.

Before deciding what type of cheek augmentation will be the most beneficial to reaching the patient's goals, the qualified cosmetic surgeon will first completely and thoroughly evaluate the patient. After determining if the patient is a strong cheek augmentation candidate, the surgeon will sometimes suggest performing a cheek augmentation alongside another procedure to best bring out the patient's features. Removing excess facial fat can help define the cheek augmentation when patients have a fuller face, or some surgeons will suggest a chin implant to better balance the face with the cheek augmentation.

Depending on the goal, a cheek augmentation can often be a subtle change with dramatic results. Patients can either have cheek augmentation by having implants put in or injections. Taking into account the patient's facial frame and features, the surgeon alongside the patient will discuss the best options. For cheek implants, the incisions will be made inside of the mouth in most instances, though if other cosmetic procedures are being performed as well the incisions may overlap with the other surgeries.

Surgeons will create a space over the bone and place the chosen implant size and shape at the appropriate location. Since cheek augmentation implants require symmetry, the surgeon will sometimes more securely attach the implants to the bone to avoid the risk of implant shifts while healing. As with any cosmetic procedure, the patient is choosing to undergo surgery for aesthetic, elective purposes and so there should be two main goals: safety and aesthetic beauty. Especially with a procedure like cheek augmentation that requires surgical precision to achieve a natural, symmetrical appearance, a patient should become as educated about the procedure's risks and benefits, as well as about the surgeon of choice before deciding if it is right for them.

The results of cheek augmentation are usually permanent if implants are used. All patients will be equipped with thorough instructions prior to the procedure, so post-operative expectations will be clear prior to undergoing the surgery. Patients should expect bruising and swelling, and any pain and discomfort associated to it can be managed with prescription medications given by the surgeon. Within a month to two months the cheek augmentation results should be evident, with the swelling and bruising subsiding within weeks of the procedure.