Skip to content Do you feel like when you smile, your cheeks won’t pop up like they used to? One possible reason for sunken cheeks may be the loss of cheek volume. Although it may be subtle at first, hollow cheeks may dramatically impact your profile, making you appear older or more tired.
Want better news? With today’s aesthetic advancements, it’s better to get your apple cheeks back. Subtle treatments like cheek fillers restore the volume over your cheekbones, making them look healthy and younger than ever.
Let’s take a closer look at what sunken cheeks actually are, what causes them, and effective treatment options that can provide a subtle but life-changing solution.
Sunken cheeks also known as Hollow cheeks, refer to the depletion of fat or volume under the cheekbones, creating a flattened or concave appearance in the mid-face area. This failure to be full can give rise to an unhealthy, gaunt, or aged appearance, even in healthy people.
The cheeks are a focal area of the face and make a significant contribution to achieving a youthful and well-proportioned look. When the natural fat pads that give this area a lift start to decrease or shift, it causes a less pronounced facial structure and shadows that accentuate age or fatigue more than you’re actually feeling.
The most prevalent cause of sunken cheeks is the natural ageing process. As we age, our skin makes less collagen and elastin, the building blocks of our skin. The facial fat pads also become smaller and drop downward, and bone loss in the mid-face decreases structural support.
A rapid loss in weight may lead to noticeable changes in the face, particularly in the cheeks, because facial fat is one of the initial fat stores to diminish with weight reduction. Individuals who have lost weight rapidly often experience hollow cheekbones, which can give them a prematurely aged or unwell appearance.
Certain individuals tend to have less fat in the mid-face naturally or are born with high cheekbones and thin facial structures, which can cause their cheeks to appear hollow even at a young age. Although this is not always an issue, when the fat in the cheek region is significantly reduced, it may require treatment.
Smoking, excessive sun exposure, an unbalanced diet, or dehydration all can contribute to facial ageing. These lifestyle factors can deplete collagen formation, dehydrate the skin, and cause premature fat loss on the cheeks, resulting in a hollowed-out appearance.
Some medical conditions or medical treatments, like chronic illness, eating disorders, or long-term medication use, can also cause fat loss in the face.
Understanding the underlying cause of hollow cheeks is essential when deciding the best course of treatment.
Hollow cheeks sometimes emerge slowly and might not even be noticed until someone mentions it, or when you spot a photo that makes you stop and think. These are some of the signs that you might have hollow cheeks. You’ve realised that:
If your cheekbones look flat or sunken, cosmetic treatments can help restore volume, lift the mid-face, and improve facial harmony. These non-surgical options are safe, effective, and tailored to suit your natural features.
Dermal fillers are the most common treatment for sunken cheekbones. They consist of products such as hyaluronic acid, which replicate the natural moisture and structure of the skin. Dermal fillers before and after photos will help you understand what the results may look like.
By injecting filler accurately into the area of your cheekbones, your practitioner can:
Sculptra is a biostimulatory filler; not only does it add volume, but it also triggers collagen production. As time passes, this helps strengthen the skin and naturally enhances facial fullness.
Fat grafting requires fat to be extracted from one part of the body and then injected into the cheekbones. It provides a natural-looking appearance and may also last for many years. This, however, is a more invasive procedure and is usually performed by a cosmetic surgeon.
RF microneedling uses tiny needles combined with radiofrequency energy to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This process triggers collagen and elastin production, helping to firm and strengthen the deeper layers. For sunken or hollow cheeks, the treatment improves skin support, making the midface appear smoother and subtly lifted over time.
Morpheus8 is an advanced form of RF microneedling that penetrates deeper into the skin and underlying tissues. It remodels fat and tightens the connective structures of the face, making it especially effective for hollow cheeks caused by ageing or volume loss. By rebuilding collagen at multiple depths, Morpheus8 enhances facial contours and restores a more youthful, defined look.
Laser resurfacing works by removing damaged skin cells and stimulating new collagen growth on the surface and mid-layers of the skin. This creates firmer, smoother, and more rejuvenated skin over time. While it does not add volume directly, it improves skin quality and elasticity around the cheeks, helping them appear less hollow and more refreshed.
Although less instantaneous and potent than medical interventions, specific home remedies can help maintain skin health and improve the appearance of the cheek area with prolonged use.
A 2009 study found that daily consumption of 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel for 90 days improved facial skin elasticity. Incorporating aloe into your diet, whether in gel form or as a drink, can make your skin feel more supple and hydrated.
Facial exercises, performed daily, can help tighten the muscles beneath the skin and fill out hollow spots.
According to a 2018 study, 30 minutes of facial exercises daily creates a more youthful and tighter appearance.
Take a look at this easy cheek exercise:
Close your mouth and try to puff out your cheeks for 45 seconds, then release slowly. Repeat this exercise 5 to 10 times a day for maximum benefit.
A nutrient-rich diet supports collagen production and overall skin health, which helps improve the appearance of sunken cheeks. Including healthy fats, vitamins, and protein can naturally enhance facial fullness over time.
Gently massaging coconut oil boosts circulation and provides deep moisturisation, giving the cheeks a smoother and healthier look. Its natural fatty acids help nourish the skin barrier, reducing the hollow, tired appearance.
Proper sleep allows the body to repair tissues and maintain healthy collagen levels, both essential for fuller-looking cheeks. Reducing stress also prevents hormonal imbalances that can accelerate facial fat loss and ageing.
Aloe vera hydrates the skin and supports collagen formation, helping the cheek area appear firmer and more lifted. Its soothing properties improve skin texture, which can soften the overall hollow look.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for treating hollow cheekbones.
The correct course of action is decided on factors like the cause of volume loss, how advanced the hollowing is, and what kind of results you’re hoping to achieve.
If you’re looking for quick, visible, and natural-looking improvement, cheek fillers are often the most effective and preferred option.
These treatments don’t just replace lost volume; they also lift and sculpt the mid-face, restoring your cheeks to a youthful, healthy plumpness.
Sunken cheeks are often a natural part of ageing, weight changes, or genetics, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with a tired or drawn appearance. Whether your cheekbones have gradually lost volume or always felt a bit flat, today’s aesthetic treatments offer safe, subtle, and effective ways to restore balance and vitality to your face.
While lifestyle improvements and facial exercises can support your skin’s health, they rarely restore lost structure. If you’re looking for real, noticeable change, without surgery, cheek fillers remain the gold standard. They offer instant lift, improved cheek definition, and a refreshed, youthful look that still feels like you.
At Yorkshire Skin Centre, our approach to Cheek filler treatment is all about natural results and personalised care. Our expert team will guide you through every step, ensuring your treatment enhances your unique beauty without ever looking overdone.
Some people like a sculpted look, but very hollow cheeks can make you look tired or older. If you don’t love the way they look, treatments can help.
A lack of nutrients, such as vitamin C or healthy fats, may play a role. But in most cases, ageing or weight loss is the leading cause.
It’s not always the case. Some people naturally have them. However, if they appear suddenly or with other symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a doctor.
It usually happens with age. Skin loses its firmness, and fat accumulates, causing the cheeks to appear flat or sunken.
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Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We're still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
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Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
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Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Clinic Director
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Patient Representative
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Sales Administrator
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Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
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