Cheek Filler in Birkdale, NC

What overdone cheeks look like

You've probably seen it. The front of the cheek sits round and high, it bunches up when the person smiles, and the face looks wider than it should. That usually comes from too much product, or product placed for a bigger look than the face can carry.

Cheeks done well look like your own cheeks from a few years back. Friends say you look rested and can't point to why.

How I keep it natural

• I place along your bone structure, so the support follows the shape you already have.
• I use small amounts and check you while you smile, not just at rest.
• I stop before the point where it starts to look like filler.
• Your two-week follow-up is included, and that's where we decide whether to add anything.

HA fillers are reversible, which is part of why I'm comfortable starting with them.

Cost

Cheek filler is priced per syringe and quoted at your free consult. Small amounts mean a smaller bill, and you see the number before anything is booked. The pricing page explains how it works. Financing through Cherry and CareCredit is available for treatment plans.

Does it hurt?

Most people feel pressure more than pain. Some fillers contain lidocaine, a numbing medicine. If you're nervous, tell me, and we'll take it slower.

How long does it last?

The FDA says how long a filler lasts depends on the filler material and where it's injected, and that absorbable fillers break down over time, so the treatment may need repeating. I don't promise a number of months for your face.

Downtime

The visit usually takes under an hour. Expect some swelling for a few days, and a bruise is possible. Most people head back to their day. Book at least two weeks before photos or a party so you're showing the settled result.

Your first visit

We talk first, then I watch your face move. If you have an older photo you like, bring it. It shows me where your volume used to sit. We agree on a plan and a price before I start, and I place conservatively.

Is it safe?

The FDA's page on dermal fillers explains the risks. Based on that guidance, wait or bring it up at your consult if:

• You're under 22. The FDA approves dermal fillers for adults 22 and older.
• You're pregnant or breastfeeding. The FDA says filler safety is unknown during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Your skin is inflamed or infected where we'd treat, including active acne, a rash, or hives.
• You have a bleeding disorder, severe allergies or a history of anaphylaxis, or an allergy to lidocaine.
• You tend to form keloids or raised scars.

Common side effects on the FDA's list are bruising, redness, swelling, pain, tenderness, and itching, and many clear up within days to weeks. The serious one is filler entering a blood vessel. The FDA calls that chance low, but it can cause tissue damage, vision problems including blindness, or stroke. If you notice unusual pain, any change in your vision, or skin near the injection site turning white, gray, or blue, get care right away.

What I can't promise

I can't promise that cheeks alone will give you the look you want. Sometimes the chin or jawline matters more. See jawline filler in Birkdale, facial balancing in Birkdale, or the full services menu.