Some people visit us, saying that their hollowed-out side cheeks make their face look gaunt.
However, when Filler is recommended, they often hesitate, saying, "I don't want it to be obvious."
They feel uncomfortable with the method of filling a wide, gently sunken area with a substance.
In such cases, we consider a different approach.
Take just 1 minute to read this.
A method that encourages growth, rather than filling
HILO WAVE is not a procedure that fills the area with a substance.
It is a dual combination of high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, which works by inducing collagen and elastin production within the skin to gradually enhance volume and elasticity.
| Category | Immediate Filling Method | HILO WAVE |
|---|---|---|
| Principle | Fills the area with a substance | Induces the skin to produce collagen and elastin |
| Time of Change | Immediately after injection | Gradually over several sessions |
| Wide Area | Can look unnatural if too much is used | Easy to apply to broad, gentle surfaces |
| Accompanying Changes | Primarily volume | Also expect improvement in inner dryness and skin texture |
It features a combination of two types of hyaluronic acid, allowing it to spread widely from deep to shallow layers of the skin.
Therefore, you can expect not only volume but also improvements in inner dryness and a dewy glow.
However, the degree of improvement may vary from person to person.
(※ Effects and reactions may vary depending on the individual's skin condition, and suitability for the procedure is determined through consultation with medical staff.)
Reasons to consider it for side cheeks and temples
The side cheeks and temples are areas where the entire surface gently sinks, rather than a single point being hollowed out.
When approaching such areas with an immediate filling method, it is easy to use too much, and the more volume added, the greater the potential for an artificial appearance.
In contrast, a method that induces the skin itself to plump up can be applied thinly over a wide area, allowing for an approach that minimizes visible boundaries.
This becomes an option when you want to soften a gaunt appearance but prefer the change not to be obvious.
Performed over several sessions
It is important to note that this is not a procedure that yields immediate results.
Since it involves the process of new collagen and elastin production, it is a method of building up over several sessions rather than achieving the goal in a single session.
Time is allowed for regeneration between sessions, and the amount and area for the next session are adjusted based on the results.
If this process is not understood and a judgment is made after just one session, it is easy to feel that "there is no change."
What to check during consultation
Hollowing of the side cheeks rarely occurs in isolation.
It is often accompanied by hollowing of the temples, front cheekbones, and Indian bands, so filling only one area can create an uneven height with the surrounding areas.
Therefore, we first check the following:
- How far the hollowed area extends
- Whether sagging is present along with hollowing, or only hollowing
- How many sessions will be performed
- Whether combination with other methods is necessary
If sagging is also present, an approach and sequence for addressing elasticity may be designed together.
Hollowing that appears as a boundary line was discussed separately in Indian Bands are Boundaries, Not Wrinkles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is HILO WAVE different from Filler?
It is not a method of filling the area with a substance, but rather a way to gradually enhance volume and elasticity by inducing collagen and elastin production within the skin. The timing of changes also differs.
Can it be used for hollow side cheeks or temples?
It can be considered as it is relatively easy to apply to wide, gently sunken areas. However, its suitability depends on the degree of hollowing and whether sagging is also present.
How many sessions are usually needed?
It is a method of progressing over several sessions, observing the progress, and adjusting, rather than achieving the goal in a single session. The number of sessions and intervals vary depending on the individual's condition.
Are there any side effects after the procedure?
Temporary bruising, swelling, or a foreign body sensation may occur. The degree and duration vary from person to person.
What is checked during the consultation?
We check how far the hollowed area extends, whether sagging is also present, how many sessions will be performed, and whether combination with other methods is necessary.
Recovery and Downtime: Observing the gradual improvement
Bruising or swelling may remain at the injection site for a few days.
Initially, the volume may appear enhanced due to swelling, then it subsides and looks hollow again, after which it gradually plumps up.
If this sequence is not understood, it is easy to feel disappointed at the 2-week mark. Therefore, it is more accurate to compare progress on a session-by-session and monthly basis.
How is the cost determined?
The cost is not determined by volume alone.
It varies depending on how many areas are hollowed, what range is covered in one session, and how many sessions are planned in total.
Pre-diagnosis, inclusion of post-procedure care, and combination with other methods also influence the cost.
For an accurate cost, it is best to provide guidance after a consultation to assess the degree of hollowing.
Visit and Consultation Information
O.N Clinic is conveniently located near Gangnam Station, making it easily accessible by subway.
Before your visit, you can comfortably inquire about any questions via Chat with us now, and through a consultation, you can coordinate the hollowed areas, session plan, and appointment schedule.
For accurate determination of suitability and number of sessions, it is best to confirm after an in-person consultation to assess the overall facial balance.
Author: Dr. Oh Seung-min (Representative Director of O.N Clinic, graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine, Academic Committee Chairman of the Korean Laser Dermatology and Hair Society). For more details on his background, please refer to Medical Staff Introduction. First published: 2026-08-09 / Last reviewed: 2026-08-15
This article is for general information purposes only, and appropriate treatment and results may vary depending on individual conditions.
