Buccal Fat Removal

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Overview

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reduces the size of the cheeks by removing excess buccal fat pads. This results in a more sculpted, contoured facial appearance, enhancing cheekbone definition and creating a slimmer, V-shaped face.

Purpose

To reduce the appearance of chubby or full cheeks

To achieve a more defined, contoured face shape.

To highlight cheekbones and jawline for a more sculpted look.

To create a more mature and refined facial profile.

To permanently remove fat from the lower cheeks for long-lasting results.

Advantages

Enhances Facial Contours

Helps achieve a slimmer and more defined face shape.

Permanent Results

Unlike weight loss, which may not always reduce cheek fat, this surgery permanently removes excess fat pads.

Minimally Invasive

No external scars, as incisions are made inside the mouth.

Boosts Self-Confidence

Creates a more aesthetically pleasing facial structure.

Quick Recovery

Most patients return to normal activities within 7-10 days.

Procedure Overview

Anesthesia

Usually performed under local anesthesia (or sedation if combined with other procedures).

Incision Location

A small incision is made inside the mouth, near the inner cheeks.

Fat Pad Removal

The surgeon carefully removes excess buccal fat pads to achieve the desired contour.

Incision Closure

The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures, leaving no visible scars.

Duration

The procedure takes 30 to 45 minutes.

Outpatient Surgery

Patients can go home the same day.

Recovery Time

Immediate Post-Surgery (First 1-2 Weeks)

Swelling & Bruising
- Swelling peaks in the first 3-5 days and gradually subsides.
- Minor bruising inside the mouth is common.
Mild Discomfort
- Some tightness and soreness in the cheeks, manageable with pain relievers.
Dietary Restrictions
- Soft diet is recommended for the first 3-5 days.
- Avoid spicy, hard, or hot foods to prevent irritation.
Oral Hygiene
- Rinse with a prescribed antibacterial mouthwash after every meal.
- Avoid using a straw for at least 1 week to prevent pressure on the incisions.

Subacute Recovery (Weeks 3-6)

Swelling gradually decreases, and initial contouring starts to appear.
Sutures dissolve naturally within 7-10 days.
Most patients resume normal activities within 7-10 days, but full results take time.

Long-Term Healing (3-6 Months)

Final results become fully visible by 3-6 months as swelling completely subsides.
The face appears more sculpted and contoured, with enhanced cheekbone definition.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Individuals with full, round, or chubby cheeks

Those who want a more sculpted, contoured facial appearance.

People who feel their cheeks are disproportionate to their overall facial features.

Patients with stable weight (buccal fat does not shrink significantly with weight loss).

Those with realistic expectations about the outcome.