Sunken Cheeks: Causes and Treatment Options

Sunken cheeks can create a thinner and older appearance in both women and men. It is often caused by the aging process and can cause other signs of aging to become more pronounced.

People with sunken cheek problems usually experience jawline sagging, deepening lines on the nose-mouth line and a general loss of volume in the face area.

What are the Causes of Sunken Cheeks?

The main cause of sunken cheeks is aging. Over time, the fatty tissue in the facial area decreases and the tissue between the zygoma (the bony prominence under the eye) and the lower jaw (mandible) decreases. In addition, the skin begins to sag due to aging and gravity, which causes the cheeks to pull downwards. Facial muscle atrophy (muscle loss) may occur with age and this may increase the sunken appearance. Sun damage can reduce the elasticity of the skin and accelerate the formation of sunken cheeks. Genetic factors also play an important role.

While aging is the most common cause, sunken cheeks can sometimes be a symptom of health problems. Conditions such as eating disorders, vascular EDS disease and lipoatrophy can cause sunken cheeks.

Surgical Treatment Methods

There are different surgical options to correct sunken cheeks and restore volume in the cheek area:

Cheek Implants

It is used to add volume to the face and lift the cheeks.

Mid-Face Lift

It provides a youthful appearance by lifting the cheeks up.

Fat Transfer

Fat tissue from different parts of your body is transferred to the cheeks.

Face Lift (Facelift)

It tightens the facial skin, reduces sagging and lifts the cheeks.

Non-Surgical Treatment Methods

Dermal Fillers – Fillers are injected into sunken areas to provide volume.

Does Stress Cause Loss of Fatty Tissue in the Cheeks?

It is possible that the fatty tissue in the cheeks is reduced due to stress. Chronic stress can affect the structure of proteins in the skin and lead to loss of skin elasticity. Long-term stress can lead to loss of facial fat and a more tired, thin appearance.

Other Associated Procedures: Dermal Fillers, Fat Transfer, Facelift