Introduction
Hollow cheeks are often associated with a chiseled, mature appearance and are considered a beauty standard by many. Achieving this look involves reducing facial fat and enhancing the cheekbones. While genetics play a significant role in facial fat distribution, there are various methods, both surgical and natural, to help you achieve hollow cheeks. This guide will explore these methods in detail.
The Science Behind Hollow Cheeks
According to a 2017 study, facial shape differences are closely related to Body Mass Index (BMI). Women with a higher BMI tend to have rounder and wider facial outlines. Another study suggests that body weight can be reliably guessed from pictures of adult faces. Therefore, reducing overall body fat can contribute to achieving hollow cheeks.
Natural Methods to Achieve Hollow Cheeks
Diet and Exercise
The most straightforward way to reduce facial fat is to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Consuming fewer calories than you burn will help you lose weight, which will also affect your face.
Healthy Habits
- Adequate Sleep: Lack of sleep can lead to weight gain, including in the face.
- Avoiding Alcohol: Alcohol can cause dehydration and facial bloating.
- Staying Hydrated: Proper hydration can prevent water retention in the face.
- Minimizing Stress: Stress can lead to weight gain, including in the face.
Mewing
Mewing is a facial exercise that involves proper tongue posture to reshape the jawline and cheek area. It’s a natural, non-invasive method that requires consistent practice.
We explain mewing in depth here (opens in new tab).
Makeup Tricks
Contouring can create the illusion of hollow cheeks. By using shades lighter and darker than your skin tone, you can draw fake shadows across your face, giving the appearance of reduced cheek volume.
Surgical Methods to Achieve Hollow Cheeks
Buccal Fat Removal
This surgery involves removing the buccal fat pads inside your cheeks. It’s not recommended for people with thin faces as it could lead to a gaunt appearance later in life. The cost typically ranges between $2,000 and $5,000 in the United States.
Cheek and Jaw Implants
Implants can make your cheeks or jaw more pronounced, contributing to the hollow cheek look. The average price of cheek implants was $2,986 in 2019.
Other Procedures
- Malar Implants: These are added to the top of your cheekbones to make them larger.
- Submalar Implants: These are designed to increase cheek volume.
- Combined Implants: A combination of both malar and submalar implants.
Conclusion
Achieving hollow cheeks is a goal that many aspire to, often for its association with a chiseled, mature look. While genetics and natural aging play a role, there are various methods, both surgical and natural, to help you achieve this aesthetic. Whether you opt for a disciplined regimen of diet and exercise, explore the art of facial contouring, or decide to go under the knife, the key is to consult professionals and consider your options carefully. Remember, beauty standards evolve, but feeling confident in your own skin is timeless.
