Facial Implants vs. Fillers: Which Is Right for You?

Facial implants and injectable fillers are two popular cheek augmentation solutions that can help to restore lost facial volume, achieve more balanced facial symmetry and result in a smooth, youthful overall appearance. If you are considering cheek augmentation but aren’t quite sure which treatment option could be the best fit for you, use this guide to help you better navigate your decision. 

What Are Face Implants?

Facial implants are small, safe devices typically made out of silicone that are surgically placed beneath the skin. They can provide a more permanent cheek augmentation solution than injectable treatments like fillers and can result in a natural-looking final outcome.

What Are Fillers?

Fillers are injectable treatments, most commonly containing hyaluronic acid, that are injected into the skin to add volume, enhance facial symmetry and rejuvenate your overall appearance. Fillers can yield nearly immediate results, though they gradually wear off in around 12 to 18 months. 

5 Factors to Help You Decide between Face Implants and Fillers

When choosing between surgical cheek implants and injectable fillers, Dr. Davis recommends considering these key factors:

1. Longevity of Results

Surgical cheek implants provide long-lasting results and don’t require regular touch-up treatments to maintain those results. However, this also means that it is more difficult to change your appearance down the road if you want a different look after getting cheek implants, as an implant removal or replacement surgery would be necessary. 

On the other hand, while filler results are temporary and do require regular treatments, they allow for more flexibility in adjusting your appearance over time.

2. Anesthesia

Facial implants are performed with local or general anesthesia, while injectable fillers only necessitate the use of a topical numbing cream. This is a consideration for those who prefer to avoid the costs, recovery or risks associated with anesthesia. 

3. Cost

The cost of cheek implants includes various expenses such as anesthesia, surgeon’s fees and operating room facility fees. While this can make the initial cost higher, it is generally a one-time expense. Fillers, while less expensive per treatment, require regular maintenance sessions to maintain your results, which can add up over time.

4. Length of Procedure

Facial implant surgery is more involved than filler treatments, often taking about an hour to complete, depending on the complexity of your procedure. Fillers, on the other hand, are typically completed in 30 minutes or less from start to finish and are sometimes even referred to as “lunchtime procedures” due to how quick and easy they are.

5. Recovery Time

The recovery time for a surgical procedure like cheek augmentation is longer than a non-surgical treatment like fillers. Plan to take 1 to 2 weeks off work to recover from cheek implants. During your recovery, you will need to avoid strenuous physical activity and will have special bandages to wear to speed the healing process. 

Fillers, on the other hand, do not require downtime, although mild swelling and bruising are common side effects. Directly after your treatment, you will need to avoid strenuous exercise, but you should be able to resume all normal activities by the following day.

Making Your Decision

If you are looking for a more permanent cheek augmentation solution and are comfortable with a surgical procedure, cheek implants may be the best fit for you. If, however, you prefer a non-surgical, more flexible approach, you may be a better candidate for fillers. 

In either case, the first step is to discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Davis and create a customized treatment plan. To schedule your consultation, call our Nashville office at 615-327-7407 or contact us online.