While chubby cheeks are often a sign of a youthful complexion, many would prefer a more sculpted appearance. Generally, chubby cheeks will fade as we age; however, factors such as genetics and weight gain can result in a more rounded facial shape.
If you’re seeking refined facial contours, here are some excellent tips for slimming and refining the cheeks.
Five tips on how to lose cheek fat
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Lose weight and tone up
While we can’t go for a run and ask our body to target the cheeks specifically, an increase in aerobic exercise can help lose weight and tone up the entire body (including the cheeks). Experts recommend 150-300 minutes of cardio a week. -
Facial exercises
Research on this topic is limited; however, some anecdotal studies show facial exercises can help tone and slim your cheeks. Typical activities include moving air in your cheeks from side to side and clenching your cheeks while holding a smile. -
Drink more water
Not only is water crucial for overall health, but it can assist with weight loss, increase your metabolism and reduce fluid retention. Aim for eight glasses a day to prevent unnecessary bloating and swelling in the face. -
Reduce sodium intake
Excess sodium consumption causes fluid retention in the body, making you (and your cheeks) feel bloated and puffier. -
Consider cosmetic surgery
If you have already reached your ideal weight and can’t seem to budge the chubby cheeks, consider surgery like buccal fat removal. This long-lasting and straightforward procedure can help remove excess fat stores in the cheeks to create a more contoured appearance.
For those seeking more lift or volume rather than fat reduction, other cheek enhancement procedures may be recommended depending on your facial anatomy and goals.
- Cheek Lift Surgery (Mid-Facelift): Restores youthful contours by lifting sagging cheeks and reducing under-eye hollowness or deep nasolabial folds.
- Cheek Implants: Provide structural support and volume for patients with flat or hollow midfaces. Implants can be made of silicone, Medpor, or Gore-Tex for durable, natural results.
- Dermal Fillers: Injectable fillers such as Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, or Sculptra temporarily restore lost volume, smooth fine lines, and enhance cheek definition.
- Fat Transfer: Uses your own purified fat cells harvested from donor areas (like the abdomen or thighs) and re-injects them into the cheeks for a natural lift and long-term rejuvenation.
Each procedure offers unique benefits, and your surgeon will recommend the most suitable option to complement your facial balance and aesthetic goals.
Restoring Volume for a Balanced Look
Facial beauty depends on proportion and balance. While some patients aim to reduce cheek fullness, others may want to restore volume to sunken or droopy areas. Both approaches – slimming and augmentation, can dramatically enhance facial symmetry.
During consultation, Dr. Sedgh evaluates whether your face will benefit more from subtle fat removal or volume restoration procedures like cheek lift surgery or fillers. The goal is always a natural, refreshed, and harmonious look.
Investing in a more confident you
The face is our most defining feature, so it can be frustrating when you aren’t happy with your appearance. While there is nothing wrong with fuller cheeks, there are several solutions out there for those looking to slim down their face and achieve more defined facial contours.
If you’re unhappy with your cheeks or facial structure, book a consultation with Dr. Sedgh to understand your options and invest in your confidence today.
Posted on behalf of Sedgh Plastic Surgery