Cheek filler. What to expect before, during and after your appointment
What to expect during your cheek filler treatment?
Cheek filler is one of the most popular non surgical cosmetic treatments today. It’s used to bring back volume, lift the mid face, and improve overall facial balance and lower face contours. As we age, we naturally lose collagen and fat in the cheeks, which can make the face look tired, saggy, or hollow. Dermal fillers can replace this lost volume, lift sagging lower face contours, and add structure to the cheekbones for a fresher and younger look.
If you’re considering cheek filler but don’t know what to expect, read our clear step-by-step guide to help you understand the process.
Cheek filler consultation
Every filler treatment begins with a consultation. This is where we will discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns about the treatment you may have. The consultation is important to make sure the treatment is safe and that the results you want are realistic. For example, some people want subtle definition in the cheekbones, while others are looking for a more noticeable lift in the mid face, and enhancing the apple of the cheek.
During the consultation we will examine your face and explain if cheek fillers could also improve areas such as sagging skin, nasolabial folds (the lines running from the nose to the mouth), or marionette lines (lines on both sides of the mouth).
Appointment preparation
Before the injections, your skin will be cleansed and wiped with an alcohol swab. At Beauty Bar in Ware, Hertfordshire, we often draw a template on the cheeks to check symmetry and to make sure both sides look balanced.
If you’re worried about discomfort, a topical anaesthetic (numbing cream) can be applied. The cheeks can be treated in different ways:
Apple of the cheek that adds volume and fullness and creates lift in the mid face.
Cheekbones that create definition and contour.
Cheek filler treatment
The actual procedure is straightforward and usually takes less than 30 minutes. Depending on a combination of factors, like the treatment area, your personal anatomy and the results we would like to achieve, we may use either a fine needle or a cannula (a blunt tip tool that can reduce bruising). The dermal filler is injected into the areas that we have previously marked, and then we gently mould and massage it if needed to create an even shape.
Most people find the procedure comfortable. Dermal filler itself contains lidocaine, a numbing agent, which makes the treatment pain free.
Instant result
One of the main advantages of cheek filler is that results are visible straight away. You will see your cheeks looking fuller, lifted, and more defined immediately after treatment. By restoring mid face volume, cheek filler also improves the look of sagging lower facial features. In many cases, it can soften deep lines in the mouth corners without needing to treat them directly, and without adding the heaviness in the lower face.
Minimal downtime
Recovery after cheek filler is usually quick. You might notice some swelling, redness, or small bruises at the injection sites, but these effects are temporary. The bruising and swelling usually shows up on the next day after the treatment and remain for a couple of days up to a week. It’s normal for one side to look slightly different during the first few days while swelling settles. Most people go back to their normal routine right after the procedure. Filler may feel harder and your cheeks tender for a few days.
Long lasting results
Cheek filler results can last anywhere from 12 months up to 2 years, depending on your health, metabolism, and lifestyle habits. Regular maintenance appointments can help keep results consistent over time.
Potential side effects
Like any injectable treatment, cheek filler carries some risks, though side effects are usually mild and temporary. These can include:
Swelling
Bruising
Redness at the injection site
Temporary unevenness due to swelling
Severe complications are rare but may happen. These include a vascular occlusion or allergies.
Cheek filler is an effective way to restore volume, lift sagging mid face and lower face contours, and add structure to the cheekbones. It’s a quick procedure with minimal downtime and immediate results that can last for a long time.
If you’re starting to notice mid face volume loss or feel that your cheeks look flat or tired, this treatment could be a good option for you. We can guide you through the process safely and adjust the treatment to your needs.
If you have any questions about this treatment use the form below.