Can sagging cheek fat (apple cheeks) be lifted back up?
Nov 14, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Han Xuefeng
Introduction
To improve sagging cheek fat (apple cheeks), it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and undergo radiofrequency skin tightening under the guidance of a qualified physician. This procedure uses radiofrequency energy to target the dermal layer of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastic fibers, thereby tightening the skin. The typical reference cost for radiofrequency skin tightening ranges from 8,000 to 30,000 yuan per session, with visible improvement usually seen around two weeks after treatment.
In general, whether sagging cheek fat (commonly known as the "apple muscle") can be lifted depends on the specific circumstances. Mild to moderate sagging can usually be improved, whereas long-term severe sagging may not be fully reversible. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:
When the apple muscle exhibits mild to moderate sagging, the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and skin tissues still retain a certain degree of elasticity and firmness. In such cases, appropriate facial lifting techniques—such as thread lifts, radiofrequency skin tightening, ultrasound therapy (e.g., Ultherapy), or surgical facelifts—can effectively stimulate collagen regeneration and enhance the supportive strength of the skin and underlying tissues, thereby lifting and repositioning the apple muscle.
Long-term severe sagging often leads to significant laxity and aging of the muscles, ligaments, and skin around the apple muscle. In these cases, the elasticity and firmness of the tissues have greatly diminished, and fibrosis or atrophy may even occur. As a result, even with the most advanced non-surgical treatments or surgical procedures, it becomes difficult to fully restore the apple muscle to its original position and shape. This is because the loosened and aged tissues have lost sufficient supportive capacity and regenerative potential, making them unable to respond effectively to treatment stimuli.
To improve sagging of the apple muscle, it is recommended to visit a reputable medical facility and undergo treatments such as radiofrequency skin tightening under the guidance of a qualified physician. Radiofrequency skin tightening works by delivering RF energy to the dermal layer of the skin, promoting the production of collagen and elastic fibers, thus achieving skin tightening. The typical reference cost for one session ranges from 8,000 to 30,000 yuan. Results are generally noticeable about two weeks after treatment, although temporary side effects such as redness or tingling may occur.
