Cheek Filler

Restore lost volume and sculpt high cheekbones for a more youthful, defined facial structure.

Years of Experience
1 +
Surgeries Per Year
1 +
Procedures Performed
1 +

Overview

Procedure Summary

Cheek fillers are a minimally invasive procedure which uses injectable hyaluronic acid to restore lost volume and add definition to your cheeks

Average Cost

$600 per syringe 

Time Duration

15-30 minutes

Alternate Names

Derma Fillers

What are Cheek Fillers?

Cheek fillers are dermal fillers specifically designed to target the midface, restoring volume, lifting the cheeks, and correcting slight hollowness or sagging. They use hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in your body, to plump up the area and smooth out lines. This can leave you with a replenished plump and youthful appearance, without needing surgery. Plus, the results can often last for a year or more. 

At Kanata Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, our cosmetic nurses offer a variety of cheek fillers tailored to meet your unique aesthetic goals. During your consultation, they will discuss the best options for you, considering your specific treatment goals and facial structure.

Types of Cheek Fillers

Different types of dermal fillers can enhance the appearance of your cheekbones. How the cheek fillers work depends on the type of filler your provider uses:

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

This is the most common filler. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in your skin. As you age, the levels of HA in your skin decrease, leading to wrinkles and loss of volume. Providers use HA injections to increase volume and keep your skin hydrated. Results from HA fillers typically last about one year. Popular HA injections include JUVÉDERM® and Restylane®.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)

Calcium hydroxylapatite is a naturally occurring substance found in your bones. Providers use CaHA injections to add fullness to your cheekbones and smooth deeper lines and wrinkles. Results from CaHA fillers usually last about 15 months. A well-known brand using CaHA fillers is Radiesse®

Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA)

Poly-L-lactic acid is a synthetic substance that helps your body produce its own collagen. Providers typically use PLLA to treat deep wrinkles on your cheeks. Results from PLLA fillers can last two years or more. A popular brand of poly-L-lactic fillers is Sculptra®.

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)

PMMA consists of tiny collagen beads that help your cheeks look firm and full. Providers use PMMA to bring firmness and structure to your cheeks. Results from PMMA can last for years, but your provider may need to inject them more than once. A well-known brand using PMMA is Bellafill®.

Benefits of Cheek Fillers

Cheek fillers offer a range of advantages that many people find appealing. Here are some of the top reasons why patients love cheek fillers:

  • One of the best things about cheek fillers is that you can see the results right away. There’s no waiting around—your cheeks will look fuller immediately after the procedure. Plus, recovery time is minimal, so you can get back to your regular activities almost right away.
  • The procedure is designed to be as comfortable as possible. Many cheek fillers contain a numbing agent, and a topical anesthetic can be applied to the area being treated. Most people say it feels like a slight pinch. 
  • Seeing the positive changes in your appearance can give your confidence a big boost. Fuller, well-defined cheeks can make your face look more balanced, helping you feel better about the way you look.
  • Another great thing about cheek fillers is that they’re not permanent. This means you have the flexibility to try them out without a long-term commitment. Depending on the type of filler used, the effects can last from several months to a couple of years, allowing you to make adjustments or stop treatment if your preferences change.
  • As we age, our faces naturally change. Cheek fillers can be adjusted over time to match these changes, so you maintain a natural look. This means your treatment can evolve with you, always complementing your facial features.
  • Cheek fillers also smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, making your skin look smoother and fuller. 

What to Expect During the Cheek Filler Procedure?

Before getting cheek fillers, you’ll have a consultation with our cosmetic nurses. During this visit, your face will be examined, and your treatment goals will be discussed to determine the most suitable filler. You may also be asked about your medical history, including:

Allergies

Inform our aestheticians about any allergies, especially to substances found in dermal fillers.

Autoimmune Conditions

Disclose any autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, as they may cause complications.

Gastrointestinal Conditions

Mention conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, which can sometimes lead to swelling after fillers.

Medications and Supplements

List any medications or supplements you take, especially NSAIDs and blood thinners, which can increase bleeding risks.

Previous Cosmetic Procedures

Share details of any past fillers or cosmetic procedures, as they can impact the current treatment.

Skin Conditions

Inform about any skin diseases or sensitivities.

Smoking Habits

Let our aesthetician know if you smoke, as it can affect healing.

History of Transplants

Disclose any history of bone marrow or organ transplants due to higher infection risks.

Recent Vaccinations

Mention any recent vaccinations, as they might cause swelling post-procedure.

During the Procedure

Our aestheticians will also discuss possible side effects and recovery time. They may mark your face to indicate injection sites and take before-and-after photos. Your skin will be cleaned, and a numbing agent may be applied. 

Using a thin needle, our cosmetic nurse will inject small amounts of filler into several areas of your cheek. The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes and involves minimal discomfort.

Cool packs may be applied immediately after the injections. For a few days, you might experience bruising, discomfort, and swelling. While you’ll see some immediate results, it can take several days to months to see the full effects, depending on the type of filler. If you receive PMMA fillers, you’ll need to massage the treated areas for about 5 minutes several times a day for one to two weeks.

What Are the Dos and Don'ts After Cheek Fillers?

Our aestheticians will give you specific aftercare instructions tailored to your filler type and injection sites. However, some fundamental guidelines apply across the board:

 

Aftercare

Dos

Don’ts

Touching and Manipulation

Avoid touching or massaging treated areas for 3-4 hours.

Do not manipulate the treated areas to prevent swelling and filler displacement.

Cleansing and Makeup

Use a gentle cleanser and follow the provided care instructions.

Avoid applying makeup directly on treated areas initially.

Food and Water Intake 

Drink plenty of water and eat anti-inflammatory foods.

Do not consume alcohol for 24-48 hours.

Exercise and Activities

Rest and avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours.

Do not engage in intense exercise or activities that raise blood pressure.

Sun Protection

Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to protect from sunlight.

Avoid direct sun exposure and incidental exposure through windows.

Medications and Supplements

Consult our cosmetic nurse before stopping any necessary meds.

Avoid blood-thinning medications or supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E for 5-7 days.

Signs of Complications 

Contact us if you notice excessive redness, pain, heat, nodules, or pus.

Do not wait for matters to get worse.

What are the Risks and Side Effects of Cheek Fillers?

Common side effects of cheek fillers include swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness at the injection sites. These effects are usually mild and subside within a few days.

Rare complications can include infection, allergic reactions, or filler migration. In very uncommon cases, blood vessel blockage can occur, leading to more serious issues.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

  • A good candidate seeks to enhance cheek volume and contour without surgery.
  • Candidates should be in good health with no active infections or serious medical conditions. 
  • Typically, candidates are adults in their 20s to 50s, looking to improve definition or restore volume.

When Will You See Results and What is the Longevity of Cheek Fillers?

You’ll likely see some improvement right after your cheek filler appointment, with the full effect kicking in within a few days to weeks. This depends on the specific filler used. The great news is that these results can last anywhere from six months to two years.  Everyone’s different, though, and things like your metabolism, lifestyle, and how much you move your face can influence how long the fillers last. To keep your refreshed look, top-up appointments are recommended. 

What is the Cost of Cheek Fillers?

The cost of cheek fillers can vary depending on a few factors, such as the type of filler used, the clinic's location, the aesthetician’s expertise, and how much filler you need. On average, you can expect to pay between $600 to $2,000 CAD per syringe. The number of syringes you'll need will depend on your needs and the results you're looking to achieve.

Ottawa’s Private Surgical Facility

To schedule your consultation, simply call our Cosmetic
Patient Coordinators at 613-591-1099 or complete the
contact form below. We are here to support you through
your journey and look forward to assisting you!

 
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Schedule a consultation with our aesthetician at the Kanata Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Clinic to discuss your goals and learn more about cheek fillers.