Buccal Fat Removal Before and After: Slimming Your Cheeks for a Defined Look

Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that involves the removal of fat pads in the cheeks to create a slimmer and more defined facial appearance.

The procedure has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among individuals looking to enhance their facial features or achieve a more symmetrical look. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about buccal fat removal before and after.

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of buccal fat pads located in the cheeks. These fat pads are located in the lower part of the cheeks, giving the face a rounder and fuller appearance. By removing these fat pads, the face appears slimmer and more contoured.

Who is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

Good candidates for buccal fat removal are individuals who are in good overall health and have a significant amount of excess fat in their cheeks. Individuals who have naturally round faces or excess fat in their cheeks due to genetics may benefit from this procedure.

The Procedure of Buccal Fat Removal

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and it takes about 30 minutes to complete. The surgeon will make a small incision inside the mouth, between the cheek and gum, and carefully remove the buccal fat pad. Once the fat is removed, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.

Recovery After Buccal Fat Removal

Recovery after buccal fat removal usually takes around two weeks. Patients may experience swelling and bruising, which can be managed with cold compresses and pain medication. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and eat soft foods for the first few days after the procedure.

Buccal Fat Removal Before and After Results

Buccal fat removal can produce dramatic results, giving the face a more contoured and defined appearance. Patients can expect to see a slimmer face within a few weeks of the procedure, and results can last for many years.

Risks and Side Effects of Buccal Fat Removal

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and side effects associated with buccal fat removal. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, and nerve damage. However, these risks are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced and board-certified surgeon.

Cost of Buccal Fat Removal

The cost of buccal fat removal can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience, location, and the extent of the procedure. The average cost of buccal fat removal in the United States is between $2,000 and $4,000.

Buccal Fat Removal Alternatives

There are several alternatives to buccal fat removal that can help achieve a slimmer and more contoured face. These include non-surgical treatments such as facial exercises, facial massage, and dermal fillers.

Choosing a Surgeon for Buccal Fat Removal

When choosing a surgeon for buccal fat removal, it is essential to find a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in facial surgery. It is also important to schedule a consultation to discuss the procedure and review the surgeon’s before and after photos.

Buccal Fat Removal for Men

Buccal fat removal is not just for women; it can also be an effective procedure for men. Men who have naturally round faces or excess fat in their cheeks may benefit from buccal fat removal to achieve a more chiseled and defined facial appearance.

Buccal Fat Removal and Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure, and it is important to understand that it is not a cure for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).

Does buccal fat grow back?

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that involves the permanent removal of the buccal fat pads located in the cheeks. Once the fat pads are removed, they do not grow back, and the results of the procedure are permanent. However, it is important to note that the remaining fat on the face can still accumulate and detract from the results of the procedure.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight is crucial in ensuring the longevity of the procedure’s results. If weight gain does occur, the remaining fat in the face may expand, leading to a fuller facial appearance. Therefore, patients are advised to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain the results of the procedure.

Does buccal fat removal change your smile?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure that involves the removal of the buccal fat pads located in the cheeks. While the procedure can change the shape of the face and create a more contoured appearance, it does not typically affect the smile.

The buccal fat pads are not directly related to the muscles responsible for smiling, and the procedure does not involve cutting or manipulating these muscles. However, some patients may experience temporary numbness or stiffness in the cheeks after the procedure, which can affect the way they smile or move their face.

It is essential to discuss any concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon during the consultation to ensure that the patient fully understands the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

What is the best age for buccal fat removal?

There is no specific age requirement for buccal fat removal, as suitability for the procedure depends on individual facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. However, most plastic surgeons recommend that patients wait until their late teens or early twenties before considering the procedure.

This is because facial structure and fat distribution continue to change and develop until this age, and it is important to allow sufficient time for these changes to occur before undergoing a permanent procedure. Additionally, younger patients are generally healthier and have more elastic skin, which can help achieve more natural-looking results.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo buccal fat removal should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate the patient’s individual anatomy and goals and make recommendations based on their expertise and experience.