You may not have been blessed with a refined, sculpted facial bone structure. Prominent, visible cheekbones are an essential aspect of facial beauty. If you inherited a flatter, rounder facial structure, your look could be subtly enhanced with a custom cheek augmentation. The procedure can be performed with dermal fillers, natural fat transfer, or cheek implants. Over time, you may have lost some of your facial fat, leading to a sunken look that can be fully resolved with a custom cheek augmentation with implants.
What is cheek
augmentation surgery?
Cheek implants are available in a wide range of sizes and levels of projection. Dr. Mesa has an artist’s eye for balance and structure, and he can advise you about the degree of change that will create the most attractive results.
The surgery involves securing the custom implant above your natural cheekbones to create a refined look. The procedure has the added benefit of bringing a subtle lift to the tissues on the mid to lower face.
What can I expect to experience during the surgery?
Cheek augmentation surgery is an outpatient procedure. It is usually performed under general anesthesia. In some cases, only local anesthesia is required. A small incision is placed inside the mouth through which the implants are placed. The incisions, once healed, are virtually invisible to others. The implants are carefully placed and secured, creating the refined structure and lift that is so aesthetically appealing. The incisions are closed with sutures, and the procedure is complete.
What can cheek augmentation do for my look?
- Fuller, higher cheeks
- More visible cheekbones
- Lifts facial tissues for a smoother, younger look
- More balanced facial features
- A refined, attractive facial appearance
- Increased self-confidence
- Smooths the undereye area
- Less visible fine lines and wrinkles
- Creates a V-shaped facial structure
- Creates an attractive structure for a more chiseled facial profile
Cheek augmentation or facelift?
The lifting effect of cheek augmentation can make it possible to avoid undergoing a surgical facelift, as it subtly raises the tissues of the mid to lower face region. For some people with more extensive facial sagging, a facelift may be recommended. In many cases, restoring or enhancing the cheek structure produces a remarkable difference, creating a more attractive, youthful, lifted look that lasts for many years.
Dr. Mesa’s hundreds of excellent reviews will give you the confidence to be sure you’ve selected a surgeon who is trusted to achieve exceptional results. With years of experience and a high reputation for cheek augmentation in NYC, Miami, and New Jersey, Dr. Mesa prioritizes individualized treatment plans for each person’s unique facial anatomy.
Cheek Augmentation Frequently Asked Questions
Cheek augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the prominence and definition of your cheekbones. The surgery involves placing custom implants above your natural cheekbones to create a more refined, sculpted facial structure. Dr. Mesa offers cheek augmentation using implants, dermal fillers, or natural fat transfer, depending on your individual goals and facial anatomy.
Good candidates for cheek augmentation include individuals with naturally flat or round facial structures who desire more prominent cheekbones, those who have lost facial volume due to aging, and people seeking better facial balance and definition. During your consultation, Dr. Mesa will evaluate your facial structure and discuss whether cheek augmentation is the right option for achieving your aesthetic goals.
Dr. Mesa offers three main types of cheek augmentation: permanent cheek implants for dramatic, long-lasting results; dermal filler injections for temporary enhancement lasting 12-18 months; and natural fat transfer using your own fat for subtle, natural-looking volume restoration. The best option depends on your desired outcome, budget, and preference for permanent versus temporary results.
Cheek augmentation surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. Dr. Mesa makes a small incision inside the mouth to place the custom implant above your natural cheekbone. The implants are carefully positioned and secured to create the desired structure and lift. Once healed, the incisions are virtually invisible since they're placed inside the mouth.
Cheek augmentation can provide fuller, higher cheeks with more visible cheekbones, creating a refined and attractive facial appearance. The procedure also offers a subtle lifting effect to facial tissues, resulting in a smoother, younger look with more balanced facial features. Additional benefits include smoothing the under-eye area, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and creating a more chiseled, V-shaped facial profile.
The longevity of cheek augmentation results depends on the method used. Cheek implants provide permanent results that can last a lifetime. Dermal filler treatments typically last 12-18 months and require periodic touch-ups to maintain results. Fat transfer results can be long-lasting, with much of the transferred fat establishing permanent volume, though some reabsorption may occur initially.
Recovery from cheek augmentation surgery typically involves some swelling and bruising that gradually subsides over 1-2 weeks. Most patients can return to work within a week, though strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks. Dr. Mesa provides detailed post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. Full results become apparent once all swelling has resolved.
Yes, cheek augmentation can often be combined with other facial procedures such as buccal fat removal, chin liposuction, liquid rhinoplasty, or chin augmentation to achieve comprehensive facial enhancement. Combining procedures can be more efficient and may reduce overall recovery time. Dr. Mesa will assess your individual needs to determine the best combination approach for optimal results.
The cost of cheek augmentation varies depending on the technique used, the complexity of the procedure, and individual patient needs. Surgical cheek implants typically cost more than non-surgical options like dermal fillers. During your consultation, Dr. Mesa will provide detailed pricing information based on your specific treatment plan and goals.
Cheek implants provide permanent, dramatic enhancement with a single procedure and are ideal for patients wanting significant structural change. Cheek fillers offer temporary results with no surgery required, minimal downtime, and the ability to adjust the look over time. Implants are better for major augmentation, while fillers work well for subtle enhancement or trying the look before committing to surgery.
When performed by Dr. Mesa, cheek augmentation is designed to create natural-looking results that enhance your existing facial features. His precise approach focuses on achieving balance and harmony with your overall facial structure rather than creating an artificial appearance. The goal is to restore or enhance your natural beauty in a way that appears completely natural.
With surgical cheek implants, some results are visible immediately, though final results become apparent once swelling subsides over several weeks. For non-surgical options like dermal fillers, results are visible immediately with continued improvement as any minor swelling resolves. Fat transfer results develop gradually as the transferred fat establishes blood supply.
Pre-operative preparation includes following Dr. Mesa's specific instructions about medications, supplements, smoking cessation, and arranging for post-operative care. You may need to avoid certain medications that can increase bleeding risk. Dr. Mesa's team will provide comprehensive pre-operative guidelines.
Cheek implants can be removed or replaced if desired, though this requires another surgical procedure. Dermal filler results will naturally fade over time, and some fillers can be dissolved with specific enzymes if immediate reversal is needed. Fat transfer results are more permanent but can be adjusted with additional procedures if necessary.
Dr. Mesa is a Harvard-trained cosmetic plastic surgeon with extensive experience in facial plastic surgery and cheek augmentation procedures. He has built a reputation for exceptional results in NYC, Miami, and New Jersey, with hundreds of excellent patient reviews. His artistic approach and individualized treatment plans ensure natural-looking results tailored to each patient's unique facial anatomy.
Verified Customer Reviews
Two years ago, I had buccal fat removal done in the UK, but the surgeon was only able to treat one side and told me there was no buccal fat on my right side. Ever since, I’ve been dealing with noticeable facial asymmetry, which really started to bug me.
After doing a lot of research, I came across Dr. Mesa and saw the countless buccal fat removal procedures he’s done and immediately felt confident he was the right choice. I ended up flying from London to New Jersey specifically to see him, and it was 100% worth it.
From the moment I arrived, everything was handled professionally and smoothly. Dr. Mesa was incredibly reassuring, and within minutes he was able to locate the buccal fat that my previous surgeon couldn’t find. The procedure itself was completely painless, which honestly surprised me, because my initial one in the uk I felt pain.
Now, after two years of dealing with asymmetry, it’s such a relief to finally have it resolved. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
I also want to mention Cristina and the rest of the staff, they were absolutely fantastic and guided me through every step of the process, making the whole experience stress-free.
Overall, this was a wonderful experience, and I would highly recommend Dr. Mesa to anyone considering this procedure.
After years trying to trust my face with someone I finally found Dr Mesa.
Dr Mesa make me feel amazing and finally look at the mirror and love my self with this amazing jaw line
Since the first time I came to the office the staff was very friendly and helpful.
Cristina and Alex responded all the questions right away.
The massage after the surgery is very important and they have Diana with amazing hands.
Thank you Dr Mesa and all the staff,
I’m 100% satisfied with my results.

Verified Customer Reviews
- My name is Fay.I am africian American senior citizen.I had buccal fat removal on one side of my face.My experience with Dr. Mesa and his staff was great.They are very pleasant I was awake throughout the procedure.My follow-up care was excellent. I was always made comfortable and at ease.Read MoreRead Lesssan jae4/16/2026
- I had an amazing experience with Dr. Mesa and couldn’t recommend him more highly.
Two years ago, I had buccal fat removal done in the UK, but the surgeon was only able to treat one side and told me there was no buccal fat on my right side. Ever since, I’ve been dealing with noticeable facial asymmetry, which really started to bug me.
After doing a lot of research, I came across Dr. Mesa and saw the countless buccal fat removal procedures he’s done and immediately felt confident he was the right choice. I ended up flying from London to New Jersey specifically to see him, and it was 100% worth it.
From the moment I arrived, everything was handled professionally and smoothly. Dr. Mesa was incredibly reassuring, and within minutes he was able to locate the buccal fat that my previous surgeon couldn’t find. The procedure itself was completely painless, which honestly surprised me, because my initial one in the uk I felt pain.
Now, after two years of dealing with asymmetry, it’s such a relief to finally have it resolved. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
I also want to mention Cristina and the rest of the staff, they were absolutely fantastic and guided me through every step of the process, making the whole experience stress-free.
Overall, this was a wonderful experience, and I would highly recommend Dr. Mesa to anyone considering this procedure.Read MoreRead LessBashir S4/15/2026 - The experience with my surgery wuth dr john mesa was outstanding,,not only did they make you feel at ease with the procedure it self but they explaind, every detailed making sure you understand the process.I had neck surgery with mini lift and at 3 month time im extremely happy with the results, being in a job that that constantly im seeing patients the amount of constant patients saying how great i look makes my day. Thank you dr messa. Greattttt work.Read MoreRead LessJaime Roman4/02/2026


