What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal reduces the fat pads in the lower cheeks to create a slimmer, more contoured face. It is a small procedure with incisions inside the mouth.
Who is it for? Adults with full lower cheeks who want a more sculpted face. Not suitable for thin faces or where volume loss is likely with age.
- Anaesthesia
- Local or general
- Hospital stay
- Day case
- Recovery
- About 1 week of swelling
- Results
- Final contour after a few months
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reducing the size of the buccal fat pads in the cheeks to create a slimmer and more sculpted facial appearance. The buccal fat pads are located in the lower part of the cheeks, and their size can contribute to a round or chubby facial contour.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
Consultation: The process typically begins with a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's goals, facial anatomy, and suitability for the procedure. They will also discuss the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of buccal fat removal.
Preparation: Before the surgery, the patient will receive pre-operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and adjusting their diet and lifestyle habits. Pre-operative tests and evaluations may also be conducted to ensure the patient's safety during surgery.
Anesthesia: Buccal fat removal is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during the procedure.
Incisions: The surgeon will make small incisions inside the mouth, usually in the area where the cheek meets the upper gum line. These incisions are hidden within the natural contours of the mouth and do not result in visible scarring on the face.
Fat removal: Through the incisions, the surgeon will carefully locate and remove a portion of the buccal fat pads. The amount of fat removed will depend on the patient's anatomy and desired outcome.
Closing the incisions: Once the desired amount of fat is removed, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures or surgical adhesive.
Recovery: After surgery, the patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area, which typically resolves within a few weeks. They will receive post-operative instructions on how to care for the incisions, manage discomfort, and gradually resume normal activities.
Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the patient's progress, address any concerns, and ensure optimal results.
Considerations
Realistic Expectations: It's important for patients to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of Buccal Fat Removal and to understand that the results may vary based on individual factors
Risks and Complications: Like any surgical procedure, Buccal Fat Removal carries risks, including infection, bleeding, seroma (fluid accumulation), hematoma (blood clot), poor wound healing, changes in sensation, and dissatisfaction with the results. Choosing a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon can help minimize these risks.
Frequently asked questions
Am I a good candidate?
Good candidates are in good general health, non-smokers (or willing to stop), with realistic expectations. Your surgeon decides after assessment.
Will there be visible scars?
No — incisions are inside the mouth.
Is the result permanent?
Removed fat does not return, which is why careful selection matters.
What can I eat afterwards?
Soft foods for a few days and careful mouth hygiene.
Surgical procedures require a surgeon consultation and pre-operative assessment. Results and risks vary between individuals.