How to recover from "retainer face"
Generally, "orthodontic face" refers to changes in facial appearance during orthodontic treatment caused by altered chewing patterns. It typically presents as sunken temples, prominent cheekbones, and hollowed cheeks. Orthodontic face can usually be improved through facial muscle exercises, proper massage, hyaluronic acid fillers, autologous fat grafting, or radiofrequency skin tightening. It is recommended to visit a reputable medical facility and undergo these procedures under professional medical guidance to ensure effectiveness and safety. Specific approaches are analyzed below:
1. Facial Muscle Exercises
Routine exercises such as cheek puffing, smiling training, and masseter muscle workouts can help strengthen facial muscles, enhance facial fullness, and thereby alleviate symptoms of orthodontic face.
2. Proper Massage
Gently massaging the face in a clockwise direction for 10–20 minutes daily may improve blood circulation and promote recovery of facial tissues.
3. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring moisturizing agent. When injected into facial areas, it increases tissue volume and improves the appearance of orthodontic face. The typical reference cost is 1,000–5,000 RMB per session. Noticeable improvement usually appears within 1–3 days, although potential side effects include allergic reactions and infection.
4. Autologous Fat Grafting
This procedure involves harvesting excess fat from another part of the body, processing it, and injecting it into sunken facial areas to improve facial contours. The typical reference cost is 5,000–20,000 RMB per session. Improvement generally becomes visible within 1–2 weeks, but possible adverse effects include infection and bleeding.
5. Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
Radiofrequency skin tightening uses energy waves to stimulate collagen contraction and remodeling, improving facial contours and reducing the hollow appearance associated with orthodontic face. The typical reference cost is 1,000–3,000 RMB per session. Some improvement is usually seen within 1–3 days, though potential side effects include skin burns and hyperpigmentation.
Maintaining a positive mindset, increasing food volume, and consuming foods that require more chewing effort in daily life can help stimulate masticatory muscle activity and support the recovery of facial structure.
