Hollow cheeks, sometimes called sunken cheeks. is an aesthetic look that many people desire. Defined cheekbones and a slim face are seen as attractive physical traits. There are a few methods people try to get hollow cheeks, including weight loss, non-surgical procedures like dermal fillers, and plastic surgery.
What does it mean to have hollow cheeks? Hollow cheeks refer to a sculpted appearance of the cheek area. There is a shadowed look that creates the illusion of cheekbones being more defined and prominent.
Some people have naturally hollow cheeks due to bone structure, while others develop sunken cheeks from weight loss or age-related volume loss. The appearance of hollow cheeks can also occur temporarily while sucking in one’s cheeks.
Weight Loss for Hollow Cheeks
One way that some people develop hollow cheeks is unintentionally through weight loss. Losing facial fat can lead to a skeletal, slimmed appearance in the cheeks. However, extreme weight loss results in an unhealthy sunken look.
Moderation is key if using weight loss to achieve slightly hollow cheeks. It is best to maintain a healthy diet and exercise plan, not aggressive crash dieting.
Non-Surgical Hollow Cheek Procedures
For those hoping to sculpt a slimmer facial appearance, there are non-surgical cosmetic procedures that can enhance the look of hollow cheeks, including:
1. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers placed along the cheekbones can help create dimension for a hollow cheek appearance. Hyaluronic acid fillers temporarily strategically add volume to shadow out the cheeks.
The filler is precisely injected by an experienced cosmetic provider in the subcutaneous plane along the upper cheek hollows and cheekbones.
When placed correctly, dermal filler can gently lift the midface for a slimming appearance. Results typically last up to 2 years.
2. Botox
Using Botox to slim the lower face can also impart a more notable hollow cheek look. By relaxing the masseter muscles along the jawline, Botox prevents muscular contractions in this area which can give the appearance of a slimmer jawline and cheek. This can help create a fashionable slim style.
Botox also minimizes wrinkles around the eyes and lips. Fewer lines can also lend to a smoother, slimming aesthetic. Botox results last 3-4 months before needing a touch-up.
3. Facials
Certain facials use techniques like steam, lymphatic drainage massage, and special slimming creams to reduce facial puffiness and water retention. Manual facial massages increase blood circulation while also promoting drainage in the lymphatic system. This eliminates built-up fluids under the skin that can cause bloating.
The increased blood flow also boosts collagen. Some facials utilize creams with caffeine, which constricts blood vessels to also eradicate puffiness. The combination of these treatments creates a temporary slimming effect for special events when you want to look your best.
Other Options
Additional non-surgical choices for contouring include ultrasound lipolysis machines like Ultrashape or Liposonix which target small pockets of fat, as well as radiofrequency microneedling such as Morpheus which helps tighten skin.
Non-invasive fat removal paired with skin tightening can enhance definition. Threadlifts are another consideration. The temporary sutures pull drooping facial tissue up for added contour.
Keep in mind that non-surgical procedures require maintenance for sustained results. The effects of dermal fillers and Botox wear off over several months. Repeat appointments are necessary to maintain hollow cheeks through these cosmetic treatments.
Hollow Cheek Surgery
For permanent hollow cheek results, plastic surgery is an option. An experienced surgeon can sculpt the cheeks during a procedure such as buccal fat removal. This eliminates fat cells, creating a slimmer facial contour. The results are long-lasting compared to non-surgical methods.
Buccal fat removal is an outpatient procedure performed under anesthesia. Recovery takes about two weeks. There is moderate swelling and bruising which fades over time. Results from cheek fat removal are visible after the initial healing, with improvements noticeable for months as swelling fully resolves. It takes about six months to see your final contour after buccal fat removal surgery.
You may be a good candidate for buccal fat removal if you have full cheeks and good skin elasticity. Hollow cheek surgery is not recommended for those with sunken-in face characteristics from aging or weight loss.
The procedure is best for those in overall good health looking to reduce round, full cheeks that do not complement their facial structure.
Talk to a qualified cosmetic surgeon to determine if this permanent surgery is appropriate to achieve hollow cheeks you desire.
Conclusion
Hollow cheeks can be achieved through different methods ranging from weight loss to dermal fillers or fully surgical buccal fat removal. Each has its pros and cons. Understanding the commitment level and expected results can help guide decisions when looking to slim cheeks.
Overall, the healthiest approach involves maintaining good skincare, a stable healthy weight, and seeking subtle enhancements from nonsurgical treatments if desired, rather than aggressive options attempts for short-term hollow cheeks gains.
The method chosen depends greatly on your current weight, facial volume, skin tone, budget, and commitment level for upkeep. Be sure providers are reputable experts in facial aesthetics. This helps avoid undesirable or unhealthy outcomes.
Patience is also important during the process. Discuss what is possible given your physiology and expectations. With realistic targets and the right approach, enhancing natural contours or achieving hollow cheeks can boost self-confidence.
How will you pursue your desired slim-faced, hollow cheek goal in a healthy, moderate way?
