What is Paranasal Augmentation

In simple terms, paranasal augmentation addresses the area just lateral to the nasal base, around the pyriform aperture (the bony opening at the base of the nose). When the mid-face lacks projection — especially beneath the nose and along the base of the cheek — the cheeks may appear flat, and nasolabial folds (the “smile lines”) more pronounced. The result: a facial appearance that may seem tired, sunken, or less youthful.

By placing an implant, graft, or injectable in the paranasal region, we can add structure and subtle projection to this under-supported area. This lifts the cheek base, fills out the mid-face contour, and supports the soft tissue around the nose and upper lip. It’s a foundational procedure that can transform facial balance without adding excess bulk.

One way to think about it: if the face is like an architectural facade, this area is a subtle structural bay. Enhancing it adds just enough forward dimension to allow the entire mid-face to appear fuller, smoother, and more youthful.

Why Consider It

Improved Facial Balance and Contour

For many patients, a recessed paranasal area causes the mid-face to look flat or underdeveloped. This is especially common in certain ethnic facial types or in patients who have undergone prior cheekbone reduction or orthognathic surgery. Paranasal augmentation helps restore the natural convexity and flow between the lower eyelids, nose, and upper lip.

Softening of Deep Nasolabial Folds

One of the less-discussed causes of prominent nasolabial folds is skeletal deficiency. When the bony base beneath the fold is under-projected, the overlying skin and fat can droop forward. By subtly advancing the structure beneath this area, the fold appears softened and the lower cheek elevated.

Enhancement Without Over-Volumizing

Patients who are hesitant about full cheek implants or filler often find paranasal augmentation to be a more refined option. Instead of adding roundness to the cheekbone, this technique enhances the transition zone between nose and cheek — leading to a more organic lift and facial continuity. It’s ideal for those who want natural-looking enhancement that doesn’t scream "cosmetic procedure."

Ideal for Revision or Ethnically-Sensitive Cases

How the Procedure Works at SoonPlus

Step 1: Detailed Assessment & Planning

Every face is different. Our planning process begins with a meticulous analysis of your facial structure. We assess:

• The projection of the pyriform aperture and maxillary base

• Nasolabial fold depth and curvature

• Cheek volume and relationship to the nose and lips

• Smile dynamics and how volume changes with expression

• Existing surgical history (if applicable)

We use front-view, oblique, and profile imaging, and in many cases, 3D scanning. This allows us to design the augmentation in harmony with your full facial architecture. Our approach is bespoke — never a one-size-fits-all formula.

Step 2: Choosing the Augmentation Material

There are several material options, each with its own indications:

1. Silicone Implants – Pre-formed or customized, these are long-lasting and provide reliable projection.
2. ePTFE (Gore-Tex) – Soft and porous, this integrates well with tissue and is less likely to cause visibility.
3. Autologous Grafts – Using your own bone or cartilage, often harvested from the rib or nasal septum, offers a natural feel and no foreign material.
4. Fat Grafting or Fillers – Suitable for subtle cases or temporary results, particularly in patients unsure about committing to permanent augmentation.

We select the material based on your anatomy, lifestyle, surgical goals, and whether this is a standalone or combined procedure.

Step 3: Surgical Technique

Paranasal augmentation is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity and combination with other procedures. The incision is hidden inside the upper lip or along the gum line, leaving no visible scars.

The key steps include:

• Creating a precise subperiosteal pocket over the pyriform aperture

• Inserting and adjusting the implant or graft to match the natural contour

• Securing the implant if necessary (some cases may require micro screws)

• Closing the incision with fine sutures to promote smooth healing

Step 4: Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery varies depending on material used and individual healing response, but most patients can expect:

• Swelling and tightness for 5 to 7 days

• Minor bruising that fades within 10 to 14 days

• Soft-food diet for the first few days to avoid irritation of the incision site

• Return to light activity after 3 to 5 days

• Full results visible around 4 to 6 weeks, with continued refinement up to 3 months

Our aftercare team provides detailed post-op instructions, check-ins, and optional regenerative treatments to accelerate healing. For international patients, we offer virtual follow-ups and concierge support.

Step 5: Evaluating the Final Result

The beauty of paranasal augmentation lies in its subtle impact. Most patients don’t look "operated on" — they look rested, lifted, and more balanced. You may notice:

• Smoother nasolabial lines

• Fuller transition from nose to cheek

• More pleasing profile

• Enhanced lip and smile harmony

Our goal is not simply change, but improvement in facial architecture that respects your natural expressions.

What to Ask Before Surgery

If you’re considering this procedure, here are some helpful questions to bring to your consultation:

• Is my mid-face projection low enough to benefit from paranasal augmentation?

• What material do you recommend and why?

• Can this procedure be combined with rhinoplasty or cheek contouring?

• What are the risks and how are they managed?

• Will the result look natural when I smile?

• How long is the implant expected to last?

Why Choose SoonPlus Plastic Surgery

• Specialized procedures in the eyelid, forehead, and mid-face region

• Personalized planning that respects ethnic features and individual balance

• Revision expertise for patients dissatisfied with prior cheek or contour surgeries

• Multilingual consultation and international patient support

• Seamless integration of paranasal augmentation with rhinoplasty and facial harmony procedures

Final Thoughts