What is Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?

Buccal fat removal surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance facial contour by reducing the size of the buccal fat pads in the cheeks. These fat pads are located in the lower part of the face, and their size can significantly affect facial appearance. The surgery aims to create a more sculpted, slim, and defined look, particularly in the cheek area.

Why Do Patients Get Buccal Fat Removal?

First, let’s talk about the reasoning for this procedure. Patients who have not outgrown their “baby face” or who have naturally full lower cheeks may want to change their facial contours from round to V-shaped and defined.

How Buccal Fat Removal surgery works?

• 1.    Enhanced Facial Contours: Achieves a slimmer, more chiseled look.
• 2.    Balanced Features: Reduces "chipmunk cheeks" for a more proportional face.
• 3.    Boosted Confidence: Helps individuals feel more confident in their appearance.
   

Who is a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal surgery?

• Individuals with full or round cheeks that persist despite weight loss.
• Those seeking a more angular or defined facial structure.
• Adults in good general health with realistic expectations.
   

Procedure of Buccal Fat Removal surgery

Buccal fat removal surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis:

• Preparation: Local anesthesia or sedation is administered.
• Incision: A small incision is made inside the mouth, near the molars.
• Fat Removal: The surgeon removes or reduces the buccal fat pad.
• Closure: The incision is sutured, leaving no visible scars.

Recovery after Buccal Fat Removal Surgery

Patients can typically enjoy a relatively smooth and quick recovery process compared to more invasive surgeries. In most cases, you can return to work within a week, though the residual swelling will take a month or longer to dissipate fully.

• First Few Days: Swelling and mild discomfort are common. Stick to a soft or liquid diet.
• First Week: Swelling begins to subside. Practice good oral hygiene to avoid infection.
• Weeks 2–4: Most swelling resolves; initial results become visible. Normal diet and activities can usually resume. Full results appear within 2–3 months as the face fully heals.

Aging After Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal yields impressive short-term results, but questions often arise regarding its long-term impact on aging. Contrary to popular belief, removing the buccal fat pads does not accelerate facial aging.

While patients do lose volume in the midface and cheekbone area as they age, the lower portion of the face (where the buccal fat is located) tends to remain stable and retain its contours.