Non-surgical methods to fill sunken cheeks

NON-SURGICAL METHODS TO FILL SUNKEN CHEEKS

There are currently various methods to fill sunken cheeks, ranging from non-invasive to minimally invasive and surgical.
Below is a classification and analysis of non-surgical methods to fill sunken cheeks according to Dr. Lu Huynh Thanh Thao, Anh Tu Clinic:

1. Filler injection (HA – hyaluronic acid):

Mechanism: Instantly adds volume to the sunken cheek area.
Advantages:
• Immediate effect.
• No downtime required.
• Can be adjusted or dissolved if unsatisfactory (with HA).
Disadvantages:
• Temporary effect (6–18 months).
• Risk of vascular complications if injected incorrectly.

2. Collagen-stimulating filler injections (Biostimulatory fillers)

Examples: Radiesse (CaHA), Sculptra (PLLA).
Mechanism: Stimulates the body to produce endogenous collagen to fill sunken areas.
Advantages:
• Long-lasting effect for 1–2 years or more.
• Improves skin quality simultaneously.
Disadvantages:
• Gradual effect, not immediate.
• Requires correct injection technique.
• Cannot be quickly reversed like HA.

3. Autologous fat injection:

Mechanism: Fat is harvested from the abdomen/thighs, processed by centrifuge, and then injected into the sunken cheeks.
Advantages:
• Long-lasting effect if fat survives well.
• Autologous material → low risk of allergy.
Disadvantages:
• Results unpredictable (fat survival rate varies).
• May require repeat injections.
• Must be performed in a facility with a sterile operating room.

4. Microneedling RF or HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)

Objective: Does not directly fill, but improves tissue firmness, “thickening” the soft tissue in the cheek area.
Suitable: Mildly sunken cheeks with loose skin.
Effectiveness: Requires a full course and is slower than injections.

Choosing a method to fill sunken cheeks needs to be personalized according to skin condition, degree of hollowness, soft tissue thickness, and patient expectations.

At Anh Tu Clinic, doctors carefully examine, evaluate facial structure, and design the most suitable treatment plan, ensuring safety, natural results, and personalization for each client.

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