Buccal Fat Removal

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a plastic surgery procedure intended to create a more defined or angular appearance in the face by removing the fat pads in the cheeks, known as buccal fat pads. In some cases, this procedure may be referred to as a buccal lipectomy or cheek reduction surgery. These buccal fat pads play a key role in shaping the face, protecting the mouth, and maintaining volume as we age, but they aren’t always proportional to the rest of the face. Once the fat pads are removed, they can no longer expand with weight changes – thus, buccal fat removal can ensure long-lasting results with a thinner, more defined appearance to the face.

Am I a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

Many buccal fat removal patients have fuller, rounder faces and aren’t happy with the fullness of their cheeks. They may be at an otherwise normal or thin weight but still have “chubby” cheeks – like a double chin, this trait can sometimes be the result of genetics. Still, patients should be at a healthy and stable weight before undergoing buccal fat removal.

One of the most important aspects of candidacy is the overall structure of your face. If you have a naturally narrow face or are beginning to see signs of aging, buccal fat removal may not be ideal. That’s because, without careful planning and understanding of your facial framework, removing the buccal fat pads can create a sunken or hollow appearance as you age. This may require further correction later on.

Before buccal fat removal, Dr. Paquet will review your health history and examine your face to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate. During a consultation, you should be prepared to answer questions about your health history, such as any conditions, allergies, or medications you take. Then, Dr. Paquet will help you create a personalized treatment plan based on your goals.

Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal is growing in popularity for its ability to change the overall facial appearance. The many benefits of this procedure include:

• More prominent cheekbones: The cheekbones can appear more defined.
• Slimmer cheeks: The cheeks can be more sculpted and less full.
• Better facial shape: The face can appear more V-shaped and contoured.
• Long-lasting results: Once the fat pads are removed, you won’t experience expansion in the cheeks.
• Boosted confidence: For patients who are bothered by full cheeks, buccal fat removal can drastically enhance confidence.
• No visible scars: The incisions made during buccal fat removal result in no visible scarring.

The primary benefit of buccal fat removal is its ability to thin the face and bring out the natural contours of the cheeks. If you have chubby cheeks, buccal fat removal can make you appear more like your age.

Before Your Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

During a consultation with Dr. Paquet, you’ll discuss your goals for buccal fat removal and learn more about your procedure. Our team will give you detailed preparation instructions such as:

• Stop smoking and avoid alcohol. These things can impair your healing ability.
• Avoid blood-thinning and anti-inflammatory medications. You may also need to adjust your prescription medications.
• Get bloodwork done to ensure you’re in good health. This can help reduce the risk of complications during your procedure.
• Gather recovery materials. Make sure you fill your prescribed medications and ensure you have appropriate foods on hand (you’ll need to eat a special diet during recovery).
• Arrange for transportation. You’ll be unable to drive yourself home and will need a close friend or family member to transport you afterward.

You will also meet with our team to sign paperwork and discuss more of your surgical plan. Please ask questions and ensure you’re fully informed about the process. Finally, you’ll be given information about your surgery date and time of arrival.

The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

Buccal fat pad removal can often be performed under IV sedation, although some patients elect for general anesthesia. If the procedure is performed alongside other surgeries, general anesthesia may be necessary. First, Dr. Paquet will make an incision along the inside of the cheek. Pressure is then placed on the outside of the cheek to reveal the buccal fat pad. This fat is then cut away from the surrounding tissue and removed. Finally, the incision within the cheek is closed using dissolvable sutures. 

After Your Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

Buccal fat pad excision is performed as an outpatient procedure, so you can immediately return home with a family member, friend, or caregiver who can drive you and care for you in the early stages of recovery. You can expect swelling, discomfort, and potential bruising. Dr. Paquet may prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable and will provide a mouthwash to prevent infection. For the first several days after buccal fat removal, you should follow a liquid diet. Full recovery is expected about three weeks after the surgery, though patients typically return to their normal, non-strenuous routines sooner. The final results will gradually emerge as residual swelling dissipates. Patients typically do not see their final results until several months after buccal fat removal. However, results are more or less permanent as the buccal fat pad will not regenerate. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Buccal Fat Removal