Face & Volume Concerns
Gaunt Face
& Sunken
Cheeks
A loss of facial volume — whether inherited, age-related or lifestyle-driven — can leave the face looking hollow, drawn and older than it is. At Shujo, we restore natural fullness and definition using non-surgical treatments tailored to your facial structure and your goals.
Book a ConsultationUnderstanding the Condition
What Causes a
Gaunt Face?
A gaunt or hollow appearance to the face is more common than many people realise — and it is not always a consequence of ageing. For some, reduced facial volume is simply a natural characteristic of their bone structure and facial anatomy from birth.
For others, the face gradually loses its fullness over time. As we age, collagen and elastin production slows and subcutaneous fat redistributes or diminishes — leaving the cheeks flatter, the under-eye area more hollow and the overall face looking deflated rather than defined.
Lifestyle factors can accelerate this. Significant weight loss, dehydration, periods of heavy alcohol consumption and high-intensity exercise regimes can all reduce the layer of subcutaneous fat beneath the skin's surface — contributing to a sunken or drawn appearance that feels at odds with how you feel inside.
Natural Facial Structure
Some people are born with naturally lower facial fat volume or a bone structure that creates a gaunt appearance — particularly in the mid-face and cheek area.
Age-Related Volume Loss
From our mid-twenties, collagen production begins to slow. Over time, this causes the cheeks to lose their natural plumpness and the face to take on a more hollowed, aged quality.
Weight Loss & Lifestyle Factors
Dieting, high-impact exercise, heavy alcohol use and significant fluctuations in body weight can all reduce subcutaneous facial fat — causing the face to appear sunken or drawn even in otherwise healthy individuals.
Skin Laxity & Dehydration
Loss of hydration in the deeper skin layers reduces the skin's ability to appear taut and supported — compounding the appearance of gauntness even where underlying volume is adequate.
Your Questions
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Everything you need to know about treating a gaunt face and sunken cheeks at Shujo — from what to expect to how long results last.
Not in the right hands. At Shujo, our approach is always to restore what has been lost rather than impose a new shape. We work with your natural facial anatomy to rebuild volume subtly and proportionately — the goal is always a refreshed, natural result, not an obvious or overfilled appearance.
This varies depending on the treatment used, the area treated, and individual metabolism. Dermal fillers in the cheeks typically last 12–18 months. Profhilo results are usually maintained with two sessions per year. Your clinician will give you a realistic expectation at your consultation.
Most clients return to normal activities the same day. Some mild swelling or bruising at injection sites is common and typically resolves within a few days. We will always discuss what to expect after your specific treatment at your consultation.
Absolutely. Gaunt cheeks are not exclusively an ageing concern — many younger clients present with naturally low facial volume or have experienced volume loss through weight change or lifestyle. We assess each client individually and there is no minimum age requirement beyond being 18 or over.
Your clinician will assess your facial structure, discuss your concerns and goals, review your medical history and recommend a treatment plan. There is no obligation to proceed at the consultation — we want you to feel fully informed and comfortable before any treatment takes place.
Ready to Restore Your Volume?
Every Treatment Plan
Starts With a Conversation
Book a consultation at our CQC-registered clinic in Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes. Our clinical team will assess your face, discuss your concerns and design a personalised plan — with no pressure and no upselling.
Your Face. Your Confidence.
Restore Natural Volume
Without Surgery
Discover how our clinically led, non-surgical approach can bring fullness, definition and confidence back to your face — tailored entirely to you at our Milton Keynes clinic.
Book Your Consultation
