Cheek Lift Guide | Restore Youthful Volume & Definition to the Midface

Sagging cheeks, hollow under-eyes, or deep smile lines making you look older or tired? A cheek lift—also known as a midface lift—is a specialized cosmetic procedure designed to lift and reposition the malar fat pads, smooth nasolabial folds, and restore natural fullness to the midface. It’s a subtle but powerful way to brighten your expression and refresh your entire face.

What Is a Cheek Lift?

A cheek lift is a cosmetic surgery that targets the middle third of the face, lifting sagging cheek tissues and repositioning fat pads higher on the face. It improves:

  • Flattened or drooping cheeks
  • Under-eye hollows or puffiness
  • Deep nasolabial folds
  • Loss of cheekbone definition

Unlike a full facelift, a cheek lift focuses solely on the midface, offering a more targeted and natural result.


Benefits of a Cheek Lift

  • Restores cheek volume without fillers
  • Lifts under-eye area for a more rested look
  • Softens smile lines and marionette lines
  • Enhances cheekbone definition and facial contour
  • No visible scarring—incisions are typically hidden
  • Natural-looking, long-lasting results (7–10 years)


Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may benefit from a cheek lift if you:

  • Are in your 30s to 60s
  • Have sagging or hollow cheeks
  • Notice tired or sunken under-eyes
  • Want a subtle midface lift without a full facelift
  • Are in good health and have reasonable expectations

This procedure is especially ideal for younger patients beginning to show signs of midface aging or those who've lost volume from weight loss or aging.


How Is It Performed?

  1. Anesthesia: Local with sedation or general
  2. Incisions: Typically made inside the mouth or along the lower lash line
  3. Lifting: The surgeon lifts and repositions malar fat pads vertically
  4. Securing: Tissues are anchored with dissolvable sutures
  5. Closure: No visible external scars

Surgery Time: 1.5–3 hours
 Outpatient Procedure: Most patients go home the same day


Cheek Lift vs. Fillers vs. Mid Facelift

FeatureCheek LiftDermal FillersMid FaceliftLongevity7–10 years6–12 months7–10 yearsTarget AreaMid-cheek, under-eyeVolume-deficient areasMidface, cheeks, under-eyeInvasivenessSurgicalNon-surgicalSurgicalIdeal ForSagging structureMild volume lossSagging + deep folds


Recovery Timeline

  • Days 1–3: Swelling, tightness, mild bruising
  • Days 5–7: Stitches (if external) may be removed
  • Days 7–10: Resume light activities and social outings
  • 2–4 weeks: Final shape becomes visible
  • 3+ months: Complete tissue settling and healing


How Long Do Results Last?

  • Results typically last 7–10 years
  • Longevity varies based on age, lifestyle, and skin elasticity
  • Maintenance options include skin boosters, laser resurfacing, and exosomes


Cheek Lift Cost (Estimated)

RegionPrice Range (USD)South Korea₩5M – ₩9M ($3,800 – $6,800)USA / Canada$7,000 – $12,000UK / EU£5,000 – £9,000


Costs depend on surgeon skill, surgical method, and clinic location.

Can It Be Combined with Other Procedures?

Absolutely. Cheek lifts are often combined with:

  • Lower blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) – For a seamless under-eye transition
  • Fat grafting or fillers – For added volume or symmetry
  • Skin resurfacing (laser or RF) – For smoother, firmer skin
  • Thread lift or Botox – For minor enhancements or longer-term maintenance



A cheek lift is a safe, precise procedure that restores the heart-shaped, youthful facial contour by addressing one of the earliest and most visible signs of aging—sagging midface volume. It’s ideal for patients seeking natural results that don’t rely on repeat fillers and want a refreshed, lifted appearance that lasts for years.



Considering a cheek lift in Korea?
Top clinics in Gangnam, Seoul specialize in midface rejuvenation with advanced surgical and endoscopic techniques, offering personalized care for both local and international patients.


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