Dr MJ has developed a simple yet effective method for mapping cheek filler injection points. The above video is part of our Advanced Facial Ultrasound course. To see the full video and expertly crafted cheek filler module, enrol today!

The foundation of her injection point planning is identifying the ogee curve—an S-shaped curve that represents the ideal cheek contour. It starts at the temple, curves outward at the cheekbone, and then curves inward toward the mid-cheek.

Her mapping technique begins by drawing a line from the lateral canthus (outer corner of the eye) vertically downward. She then draws a second line from the top of the ear to the ala of the nose. The intersection of these two lines marks the point of maximum projection on the ogee curve. This is the precise location where filler placement will create the most flattering result.

For the main cheek projection, Dr MJ places the entry point lateral to the intersection along the zygoma. For addressing the cheek hollow, she places the entry point at the angle of the mandible for cannula advancement. This approach ensures consistent, predictable results for all patients.

What makes Dr MJ’s approach different from other injectors is the use of ultrasound guidance for filler placement. Ultrasound allows you to see the underlying structures, control depth of the needle/cannula, verify filler placement, and avoid vascular structures.

Facial ultrasound technology is the single most important tool for ensuring patient safety. There is no better place to learn this skill than with Dr MJ at the HUB. More on this later.

Cheek Filler Injection Points

There are several different injection points you can use when injecting the cheek area. Which ones you use will likely vary patient to patient. As you know, no patient is the same, so a thorough consultation is essential for mapping out which injection points you’ll use.

1. Lateral Cheek Injection Point

The lateral cheek injection point is located on the upper surface of the lateral zygoma. When injecting this area, the needle should be placed at a 90-degree angle to the bone, though it will appear slightly pointing upwards when in position. The injection should be made directly into the periosteum, with careful palpation using the needle to feel the curve of the underlying bone.

This injection point serves to provide lateral projection and counterbalance age-related medial volume shifts, creating a more youthful cheek contour.

2. Central/Apex Cheek Injection Point

As per Dr MJ’s mapping technique, the central or apex cheek injection point is located at the intersection of the lateral canthus-to-vertical line and the ear-to-ala line. The entry point is positioned laterally along with zygoma, with the needle or cannula advanced to the intersection point. The filler is placed in the deep fat compartment beneath the SMAS, ideally with ultrasound guidance to verify placement.

This injection point is crucial as it creates the maximum projection point on the ogee curve, restores the youthful V-shape of the face, and provides structural support for the mid-face.

3. Lateral Lid-Cheek Junction Point

The lateral lid-cheek junction point is the most superior injection point, located near the junction of the lower eyelid and cheek. This area requires special care due to the thinness of the skin and the proximity to the orbital rim. Overfilling can cause an unnatural appearance and increases risk of lumps or irregularities.

When injecting this area, practitioners should use a thinner, intermediate-grade filler and enter with the bevel facing down to touch the periosteum. A small amount of filler should be injected, followed by gentle molding to ensure even distribution.

This injection point addresses the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek, smooths the tear trough, and provides a subtle lift to the mid-face.

4. Anterior Cheek Injection Point

The anterior cheek injection point is located on the anterior face of the zygoma. When injecting this area, the needle should be placed at a 90-degree angle to ensure proper entry into the anterior face. The needle should go straight down to touch the periosteum, with a small bolus of filler delivered at this depth. Care must be taken to avoid injecting too superficially, which could result in visible lumps or irregularities..

This injection point creates anterior projection, addresses the zygomatic ligament area, and remedies cheek shadows that can form above the ligament.

5. Inferior Cheek/Preauricular Injection Point

The inferior cheek or preauricular injection point is located in the preauricular section below the zygoma. When injecting this area, a shallower angle should be used to avoid the transverse facial artery. The cannula entry point is typically placed at the angle of the mandible, with the cannula advanced to the treatment area. A linear threading technique is preferred for this area, with filler placed in the hypodermal layer.

This injection point addresses volume loss in the preauricular region, provides support to the lower cheek, and helps create a more defined jawline.

Cheek Filler Before and After

Assessing Patients for Cheek Fillers

A thorough facial assessment is a critical component of any successful cheek augmentation. Age-specific considerations play a significant role in treatment planning. Patients in their 20s and 30s are often looking for enhancement rather than the restoration older patients may be looking for.

Gender differences also play a significant role when treatment planning. Female patients have higher, more contoured cheekbones, fuller deep medial cheeks, and a defined ogee curve. On the other hand, male patients have flatter mid-faces with a less pronounced ogee curve. When treating male patients, practitioners should be careful to avoid over-feminising or over-volumising the cheeks.

There are also ethnic variations that must be taken into consideration. For example, white patients often have pronounced cheekbones but experience earlier volume loss. The focus when treating these patients is typically on restoring projections. East Asian patients often have a flatter deep medial cheek but may have full, sculpted cheekbones. The focus for these patients is on creating added definition without over-volumising.

Cheek Filler: Next Steps

The cheeks are among the most difficult areas of the face for filler injection. Mastering these injection points requires a combination of thorough anatomical knowledge, precise technique, and artistic vision. With the use of facial ultrasound, Dr MJ’s cheek filler approach keeps patient safety at the forefront.

By understanding the various injection points, their anatomical significance, and the appropriate techniques for each patient, aesthetic practitioners can achieve natural results for their patients.

For injectors seeking to perfect their cheek filler technique, comprehensive hands-on training is essential. At the Smileworks Aesthetic Training HUB, we offer specialised courses that cover facial anatomy, injection techniques, and complication management specifically for treatments like cheek augmentation. Our small-group training ensures personalised attention to develop your skills with confidence.

Learn From The UK’s Best Injectors

For those looking to advance their skills in cheek augmentation, there’s no better place to do so than at the Smileworks Aesthetic Training HUB. The HUB is an esteemed aesthetic training centre based in the UK. We pride ourselves on our wide range of online and hands-on courses tailored for every skill level.

The best starting point for gummy smile correction training is our world-renowned facial ultrasound courses. We offer a beginner Foundation Facial Ultrasound course that teaches you how to use and interpret ultrasound images. Our Advanced Facial Ultrasound dives deeper into how to treat with ultrasound technology, including cheek filler treatment. All of our courses are designed specifically with medical professionals like doctors, dentists, and nurses in mind. You’ll walk away with the skills and knowledge necessary to start practicing on real patients right away.

For those looking for more in-depth cheek filler training, we recommend booking a one-to-one mentoring session with Dr MJ. These sessions are 100% customisable, and you’ll receive personalised instruction based on your skill level and goals.

It’s time to embrace the prospering world of aesthetic medicine. The HUB provides you with all the right training and guidance you need to succeed. Take control of your professional journey and step into a future filled with endless potential and opportunities.

Join us at the HUB. Let’s shape the future of aesthetic medicine together and ensure safe, effective, and transformative results for every patient.

Want to try out our courses before committing? Take advantage of our free trial for a taste of what learning at the HUB is like.

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