Cheek Contours Play a Key Role in Facial Feminization

The cheeks are central to how the face reflects light, softness, and gender expression. Fuller, gently contoured cheeks are often associated with femininity, while flatter or lower volume cheeks can contribute to a more angular appearance. At FFSNYC, cheek augmentation is approached as a subtle yet impactful procedure that enhances facial balance and supports a more aligned, confident reflection.

What Is Cheek Augmentation?

Cheek augmentation is a facial feminization procedure that adds volume and contour to the midface to create softer, more rounded cheek structures. This can be achieved using techniques such as fat grafting or, in select cases, implants. The goal is not exaggerated volume, but natural fullness that complements the eyes, nose, and jaw while maintaining facial harmony.

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Patient Testimonials

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Dr. Reitzen is just simply severely competent - not to mention she has impeccable active listening skills coupled with a bed side manner that makes you feel like you’re speak...

Dr. Bastidas is a great Doctor who explained everything to me. He put me at ease about my reconstructive surgery on my face and that I will look like myself. I totally trust him....

Dr. Reitzen is fantastic. She was consistently incredibly respectful and professional from the very first appointment. All my friends want to have their surgeries done with it beca...

Dr. Bastidas is very kind and did a fantastic job with my procedure, as well as my daughter’s procedure. The office is very quick to reply as well! Highly recommend!

Dr. Reitzen was incredible and so kind. I always felt comfortable at our appointments and the surgery was done perfectly. Her and her staff were communicative, responding rapidly t...

I had a very pleasant experience with Dr. Bastidas. Highly recommended!

Dr. Reitzen is extremely knowledgeable & confident in what she does. Her bedside manner is incredible and she made me comfortable throughout my process of getting a rhinoplasty...

Amazinggggg team!! I love Dr Bastidas! He did my FFS surgeries. 

Dr. Reitzen is an exceptional doctor, possessing all the qualities one would expect: caring, compassionate, empathetic, thorough, skilled, and knowledgeable, with excellent bedside...

It’s very comfortable and very clean place. the people are incredibly, friendly excellent service. I am very happy to have decided on this specific place and to visit Dr Bast...

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Reitzen and the exceptional care I received. From my very first consultation, she was incredibly attentive, taking the time to listen...

Excellent service and great experience. I am very happy to have decided to visit Dr Bastidas, he is an excellent surgeon. Thank you very much Dr Nicolas Bastidas and nurse Robin!...

Excellent doctor and physician assistants. Amazing results! Highly recommend"

Dr. Bastidas and his staff are amazing. The personal care and attention is unmatched by any doctor or office. Normally you have one or the other where the doctor is nice and staff ...

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Why Choose FFSNYC for Cheek Augmentation?

FFSNYC is recognized for its multidisciplinary, team-based approach to gender affirming surgery. Our surgical team includes board-certified plastic surgeons and facial plastic surgeons who collaborate closely to design individualized treatment plans. 

With more than 400 gender affirming surgeries performed each year, FFSNYC prioritizes natural outcomes, advanced planning, and respectful, patient-centered care. Access to commercial insurance and efficient scheduling further support patients seeking high-quality facial feminization in NYC.

Before & After Cheek Augmentation

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A Personalized Approach to Cheek Enhancement

Facial Analysis and Volume Mapping

Cheek augmentation begins with a comprehensive facial analysis that evaluates bone structure, soft tissue volume, and overall facial proportions. The surgical team assesses how the cheeks interact with surrounding features such as the eyes, lips, and jawline. This planning process ensures that added volume enhances femininity without appearing artificial or disproportionate.

Fat Grafting for Natural Volume

Fat grafting is a commonly used technique for cheek augmentation in facial feminization. Fat is harvested from another area of the body, processed, and carefully injected into the cheeks. Because the material comes from your own body, fat grafting offers a natural look and feel while reducing the risk of allergic reaction. This method allows for precise sculpting and subtle contouring.

Implant-Based Cheek Augmentation

In certain cases, cheek implants may be considered to provide more defined structural support. Implant selection and placement are highly individualized and chosen only when appropriate for facial anatomy and goals. The focus remains on creating smooth transitions and natural contours rather than sharp or overly prominent cheekbones.

Integration With Other Facial Feminization Procedures

Cheek augmentation is often performed alongside other facial feminization procedures such as rhinoplasty, jaw contouring, or chin reshaping. Combining procedures allows for comprehensive facial balance and a single recovery period. Your surgical team will guide you on the best approach based on your overall treatment plan.

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Recovery After Cheek Augmentation

Recovery from cheek augmentation depends on the technique used and whether it is combined with other procedures. Swelling and bruising in the midface are common during the first one to two weeks and gradually improve. Fat grafting may involve additional swelling at the donor site where fat is harvested. Most patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities within one to two weeks. 

Final cheek contours continue to refine over several months as swelling resolves and transferred fat stabilizes. FFSNYC provides detailed postoperative instructions, scheduled follow-up visits, and direct access to the care team throughout recovery.

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Results and Long-Term Outcomes

Cheek augmentation results are designed to look soft, balanced, and enduring. With fat grafting, some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed during the initial healing period, while the remaining fat establishes long-term volume. Implant-based augmentation provides consistent structural support over time. 

The goal is a midface that reflects light more evenly, supports feminine contours, and blends seamlessly with the rest of the face. When performed thoughtfully, cheek augmentation can significantly enhance overall facial harmony.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is cheek augmentation always part of facial feminization surgery?

Not every patient needs cheek augmentation. The decision depends on natural facial volume, bone structure, and individual goals.

Will cheek augmentation make my face look overfilled?

The goal is natural enhancement. Volume is added conservatively and tailored to your facial proportions to avoid an exaggerated appearance.

How long do cheek augmentation results last?

Fat grafting results can be long-lasting once the fat stabilizes, while implants provide permanent structural support.

Can cheek augmentation be combined with fillers instead of surgery?

In some cases, non-surgical fillers may be used, but surgical options often provide more durable and predictable results for facial feminization.

Is cheek augmentation covered by insurance?

FFSNYC works with commercial insurance providers, and coverage may be available when procedures are deemed medically necessary.

Schedule Your Consultation for Cheek Augmentation in New York City

Discover whether cheek augmentation is right for your facial feminization plan with a personalized consultation focused on balance, safety, and long-term results.

Patients considering cheek augmentation in NYC are encouraged to connect with FFSNYC to learn how individualized planning, surgical expertise, and affirming care can support a softer, more confident reflection.

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