These Cosmetic Treatments Can Change Your Face’s Shape
Do you ever feel dissatisfied with an overly round face or a non-prominent chin? You are not alone! A growing number of individuals are seeking cosmetic solutions to enhance or change the overall shape of their faces. The desire for a more defined facial structure is rapidly becoming a major trend, with particular interest in achieving a heart-shaped face — characterized by a broader upper third tapering down to a sharply defined jawline.
This trend is especially popular among those with oval or round faces who wish to achieve a sleeker, more contoured appearance. Fortunately, a variety of cosmetic treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, are available that can significantly alter the shape of your face. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most effective treatments that can help you achieve the facial contour you are looking for.
Buccal Fat Removal
What is it? How is it performed?
Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the fullness of the cheeks by removing the buccal fat pads, which are naturally occurring fat deposits located in the lower part of the cheeks. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, where small incisions are made inside the mouth to access and remove the fat pads. The surgery usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
What face shape changing result is provided?
By removing the buccal fat pads, the prominence of chubby cheeks is decreased, resulting in a more sculpted, slimmer facial appearance. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who feel that their cheeks contribute to an overly round or baby-faced look. The result is a more defined and contoured face, often contributing to the desired heart-shaped appearance.
Are results permanent?
Yes, the results of buccal fat removal are permanent. Once the fat pads are removed, they do not grow back. However, it is important to note that significant weight gain after the procedure can affect the results, as fat can accumulate in other areas of the face.
Candidacy
Ideal candidates for buccal fat removal are individuals with excess cheek fullness who are seeking a more defined facial contour. It is important that candidates are in good overall health, have stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure.
Is downtime required?
Yes, there is some downtime required. Patients typically experience swelling and bruising for about a week after the surgery. Full recovery and the final results can be seen within three to four weeks. During the recovery period, patients are advised to stick to a soft diet and avoid strenuous activities.
Masseter Botox
What is it? How is it performed?
Masseter Botox is a non-surgical procedure that involves the injection of Botox into the masseter muscles, which are the muscles responsible for chewing. Overdeveloped masseter muscles can contribute to a square or overly broad jawline. The Botox injections work by relaxing these muscles, thereby reducing their size over time.
What face shape changing result is provided?
Masseter Botox is particularly effective for those with overly square faces, as it helps create a more tapered and slender facial contour. By reducing the size of the masseter muscles, the face appears more oval or heart-shaped, especially when combined with other contouring procedures.
Are results permanent?
No, the results of Masseter Botox are not permanent. The effects typically last for three to six months, after which the treatment needs to be repeated to maintain the desired facial contour. However, with repeated treatments, the masseter muscles may gradually reduce in size, leading to longer-lasting results.
Candidacy
Ideal candidates for Masseter Botox are individuals with prominent or hypertrophic masseter muscles who are seeking a less square and more refined facial appearance. Candidates should be in good health and have realistic expectations about the treatment’s outcomes.
Is downtime required?
No significant downtime is required after Masseter Botox. Patients may experience some mild swelling or bruising at the injection sites, but this typically resolves within a few days. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Neck Lift
What is it? How is it performed?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess skin and fat from the neck area, as well as tightening the underlying muscles to create a more defined jawline and smoother neck profile. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours. Incisions are usually made behind the ears and sometimes under the chin to allow for the removal of excess tissue and repositioning of muscles.
What face shape changing result is provided?
A neck lift significantly enhances the definition of the jawline by removing excess tissue along the chin and neck, which in turn helps create a more refined and less rounded face. This procedure is especially beneficial for individuals who feel that a sagging neck or double chin is contributing to an undesirable facial shape.
Are results permanent?
Yes, the results of a neck lift are long-lasting, though they are not entirely permanent. While the effects can last for many years, the natural aging process will continue, and some degree of sagging may eventually recur. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prolong the results.
Candidacy
Ideal candidates for a neck lift are individuals with significant sagging or excess tissue in the neck area who are looking to achieve a more defined jawline. Candidates should be in good health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
Is downtime required?
Yes, a neck lift requires a significant amount of downtime. Patients can expect bruising, swelling, and discomfort for several weeks post-surgery. Most people can return to work within two to three weeks, but full recovery may take up to six weeks. Strenuous activities should be avoided during the recovery period.
Dermal Fillers
What is it? How is it performed?
Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that add volume to specific areas of the face. They are typically composed of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body, and are used to enhance the contours of the face. The procedure involves a series of small injections into targeted areas such as the cheeks, chin, and jawline.
What face shape changing result is provided?
Dermal fillers are highly versatile and can be used to alter the shape of an oval face by adding volume to the mid-face and lateral cheeks. This creates a more lifted and youthful appearance, contributing to the heart-shaped face trend. Additionally, dermal fillers can enhance the jawline, making it more pronounced and defined.
Are results permanent?
No, the results of dermal fillers are not permanent. The effects typically last between six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used and the area treated. However, there are way to make dermal filler results last longer. Maintenance treatments are required to sustain the results over time.
Candidacy
Dermal fillers are suitable for a wide range of candidates, particularly those looking to enhance their facial contours without undergoing surgery. Ideal candidates are in good health, have no allergies to the filler materials, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes.
Is downtime required?
Minimal downtime is required after dermal filler injections. Some patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection sites, but these effects usually subside within a few days. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Chin Implants
What is it? How is it performed?
Chin implants are a surgical solution designed to enhance the prominence and shape of the chin. The procedure involves the insertion of a biocompatible implant through a small incision either inside the mouth or under the chin. The implant is carefully positioned to achieve the desired contour and symmetry.
What face shape changing result is provided?
Chin implants are particularly effective in creating a more elongated and prominent chin, which can transform an oval or round face into a more heart-shaped appearance. The procedure enhances the lower third of the face, balancing the facial proportions and contributing to a stronger, more defined jawline.
Are results permanent?
Yes, the results of chin implants are permanent. The implant is designed to last a lifetime, though it may need to be replaced or adjusted in rare cases due to complications or changes in facial structure over time.
Candidacy
Ideal candidates for chin implants are individuals with a weak or receding chin who are seeking a more defined facial structure. Candidates should be in good health, have realistic expectations, and be free from conditions that could impair healing.
Is downtime required?
Yes, there is some downtime required after chin implant surgery. Patients can expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few weeks following the procedure. Most people can return to work within one to two weeks, but full recovery may take several months. It is important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing.
Achieving the facial shape you desire is more attainable than ever with the variety of cosmetic treatments available today. Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or more dramatic changes, these procedures can help you achieve a more defined, balanced, and aesthetically pleasing face. Consulting with a qualified cosmetic surgeon is the first step in determining the best treatment plan for your unique facial structure and goals.
Dr. McGee has been practicing plastic surgery for more than 18 years in all areas of the field, including cosmetic surgery and reconstructive breast and facial surgery. Dr. McGee is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He has numerous hospital affiliations in the Round Rock and greater Austin areas and is a member of the American Society of plastic Surgeons, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgeons and Austin Smiles.