Chubby cheeks may look attractive on some people, while others find them distasteful. Luckily, there’s an effective surgical procedure called buccal fat removal for men which can reduce chubby cheeks and create more defined cheekbones – it gives faces a sleeker, sculpted appearance.
This minimally invasive procedure uses dissolvable stitches for surgery. Although swelling and bruising are likely post-surgery, they should diminish over time.
Buccal Fat Removal For Men
Ideal Candidates
Buccal fat removal isn’t suitable for everyone; the procedure works best with those who are unhappy with their chubby cheeks but who have realistic expectations. Furthermore, being physically healthy is essential as there will likely be swelling and discomfort during recovery from this procedure.
Body fat may come and go with fluctuating weight levels; however, in certain instances it remains permanent and contributes to a full face even at normal weight levels. This occurs with many autoimmune diseases where cheek fat pads and lower facial areas swell due to excess lipid deposits.
Patients undergoing buccal fat removal surgery to create a slimmer face and more defined cheekbones typically undergo the procedure inside their mouth for 30- to 60 minutes; other facial procedures may also be combined for enhanced aesthetic results; patients can expect some swelling and bruising as part of the recovery process.
Procedure
Men with chubby cheeks (known as chipmunk cheeks) who are unhappy with the contour of their facial features may be suitable candidates for buccal fat removal.
This simple procedure can be completed under local anesthesia, IV sedation or general anesthesia and typically takes less than 30 minutes in experienced hands to complete.
Once the cheek area has been rendered numb, a surgeon will make small incisions inside your mouth to access and extract buccal fat pads for removal. This process can help slim the lower face while increasing jawline prominence and cheekbone prominence; additionally, fat removed is permanent as it cannot return.
Dr. Steinbrech, a NYC facial plastic surgeon will conduct a consultation for patients looking to reduce fat in their cheeks in order to determine the ideal amount of fat removal needed to achieve natural-looking results.
At this appointment, they will undergo physical exams and medical history reviews as well as discussing goals with them before making his recommendations on which areas need the most work and when. He can then determine how best to remove that amount of fat.
Recovery
Although buccal fat removal is considered minimally-invasive, patients should expect some swelling and bruising as part of the recovery process. A surgeon makes tiny incisions inside the mouth to access buccal fat pads and shape tissues until an ideal cheek contour has been reached – unlike other forms of facial plastic surgery which often involves muscles and tendons being moved around during treatment.
As an outpatient procedure, patients return home following the procedure with detailed instructions for recovery. They should plan on remaining at home during their first few days while eating a liquid diet and using special mouthwash to decrease the risk of infection.
As social media influencers have used high-cheekbone aesthetic to enhance their beauty, it is important to recognize that such procedures may not always be healthy or natural-looking.
They may lead to gaunt or emaciated appearance in older individuals; therefore, this procedure should not be recommended to someone who has already lost significant amounts of weight.
Results
Buccal fat removal can be an extremely successful procedure for men looking to reduce facial fat and achieve a slimmer lower face structure. It can accentuate their cheekbones and give their profile more refinement; although initial swelling may obscure its effects, over time this surgery will gradually change the facial structure as the procedure takes its course.
Contrary to other forms of cosmetic enhancement that may become outdated or lose their appeal over time, this surgical procedure provides permanent cheek-contouring results.
However, any remaining fat cells could expand if significant weight gain occurs – so patients must strive to achieve and maintain their ideal weight to ensure long-term satisfaction with the results.
As this procedure can lead to a gaunt appearance with age, it should not be undertaken by those already suffering from thin or narrow faces. Furthermore, its use increases risk and complications associated with medical conditions that threaten life-threatening illness or severity.
Risks and Potential Complications of Buccal Fat Removal for Men
Understanding the potential risks and complications associated with buccal fat removal is crucial before undergoing the procedure. Although it is generally considered a low-risk surgery, it is essential to be aware of the following risks:
Normal Post-Surgical Effects
After buccal fat removal, patients can expect common post-surgical effects such as swelling, bruising, numbness, and discomfort. These effects are a normal part of the healing process and should be expected after the surgery.
Possible Risks
While rare, there are potential risks and complications associated with buccal fat removal. Infection, complications related to anesthesia, cardiac and pulmonary issues, and deep vein thrombosis are among the possible risks involved.
It is important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before proceeding with the surgery.
Over-Removal and Facial Appearance
One potential complication of buccal fat removal is removing too much fat, which can result in a gaunt or prematurely aged appearance. Men who already have a thin or narrow face should be cautious, as excessive fat removal may lead to an undesired outcome.
It is worth noting that as we age, we naturally lose fat in our face, and cheek reduction surgery is generally not recommended for individuals older than their forties.
Consequently, patients who undergo buccal fat removal may experience facial changes over time, potentially requiring additional procedures to correct them.
Minimizing Risks and Ensuring Suitability
To minimize risks, it is crucial to choose an experienced surgeon who is board-certified and can provide evidence of successful outcomes through before and after images. Reading online reviews from previous patients and asking thorough questions during the consultation process can also help ensure that the procedure is suitable for you.
Recovery Time and Aftercare Instructions for Buccal Fat Removal for Men
Understanding the recovery process and following proper aftercare instructions are vital for successful healing after buccal fat removal surgery. Here are some important considerations:
Recovery Time
Patients can expect swelling, bruising, numbness, and discomfort following buccal fat removal, which are normal and part of the healing process. While the recovery time is relatively short, it generally takes around 2-3 weeks for patients to return to their regular schedule and eating habits.
However, full recovery and the complete visibility of the surgery’s results may take between four and six weeks, once all swelling has subsided.
Post-Surgery Care
During the initial recovery period, patients should avoid strenuous activities for at least one week. Light activity can be performed as tolerated. Soreness in the cheeks may be experienced during the first week, and a soft food diet is typically recommended.
It is important to carefully follow the aftercare instructions provided by the healthcare provider, which may include taking prescribed medications to manage pain and discomfort. Smoking and consuming alcohol should be avoided during the recovery period.
Personalized Advice
For personalized advice on recovery and aftercare instructions, it is recommended to consult with a licensed plastic surgeon who can provide tailored guidance based on individual circumstances.
By understanding the risks, following proper aftercare, and seeking guidance from a qualified professional, individuals considering buccal fat removal can make informed decisions and have a smoother recovery process.
Exploring Facial Contouring Alternatives for Men: Surgical and Non-Surgical Procedures
When it comes to achieving desired facial contours, men now have a range of options to consider. Whether seeking a surgical or non-surgical approach, there are several procedures available.
Here are some alternatives for facial contouring in men:
Surgical Procedures for Enhanced Definition
- Rhinoplasty: This surgical procedure focuses on reshaping the nose, refining its proportions, and improving facial harmony. A well-performed rhinoplasty can help achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing nasal appearance.
- Chin Augmentation: By placing an implant or reshaping the existing bone structure, chin augmentation can provide a stronger and more defined chin. This procedure enhances facial symmetry and contour, creating a more masculine appearance.
- Jawline Contouring: A well-defined jawline can significantly enhance facial aesthetics. Jawline contouring procedures involve reshaping the jawbone or using implants to create a sharper and more sculpted jawline, resulting in a more chiseled look.
Non-Surgical Options for Facial Rejuvenation
- Morpheus8 RF Microneedling: This minimally invasive procedure combines radiofrequency energy and microneedling to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. Morpheus8 can improve facial contours, reduce wrinkles, and enhance skin texture.
- Forma Facial Skin Tightening: Using radiofrequency energy, Forma Facial Skin Tightening stimulates collagen production, resulting in tighter and firmer skin. This non-invasive treatment can help improve facial contours and reduce sagging.
- Thread Lift for Progressive Rejuvenation: Thread lift procedures involve inserting dissolvable sutures into the skin to lift and tighten sagging areas. This technique stimulates collagen production and offers a subtle but noticeable improvement in facial contours.
- Ultherapy: Utilizing ultrasound energy, Ultherapy stimulates collagen production and tightens the skin. It can effectively lift and firm facial tissues, improving facial contours and reducing the signs of aging.
Body Contouring Options for Men
In addition to facial contouring, men can also consider body contouring procedures for areas such as the abdomen and chest:
- Liposuction: Liposuction removes excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body, helping to sculpt and define the abdomen and chest. It is an effective surgical option for achieving a more contoured physique.
- Non-Invasive Body Contouring: Non-surgical body contouring procedures, such as CoolSculpting or SculpSure, use targeted cooling or heat energy to selectively reduce stubborn fat pockets. These treatments can help achieve a more sculpted appearance without surgery.
- Fat Reduction Procedures: Techniques like injectable fat-dissolving treatments, such as Kybella, offer a non-surgical approach to reducing excess fat in areas like the chin. These treatments can enhance facial contours and redefine the jawline.
Finding the Right Treatment for You
It is crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced medical professional to determine the most suitable treatment or combination of procedures for your specific anatomy and needs. They will guide you in selecting the best approach to achieve your desired facial or body contours, ensuring optimal results and patient satisfaction.
