Buccal Fat Removal Cost: Factors to Consider

Some of us naturally have fuller faces, which may result in a “baby face,” even after early adulthood. While it may be nice to be mistaken for a younger age than you really are, you may not enjoy the roundness of your facial appearance. Instead of cute, you want to be sexy.

Many celebrities and normal people alike are turning to buccal fat removal as a solution. So this may be something to explore for you too.

But how much is buccal fat removal? By learning the buccal fat removal cost ahead of time, you can budget better and get your desired procedure without financial surprises.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal (also known as buccal lipectomy or bichectomy) is a type of cosmetic surgery that removes the buccal fat pads from the cheeks. The result is a slimmer and more contoured face, and it’s great for people who desire a more chiseled appearance.

Not only is the surgery quick (an hour max, usually), but the downtime afterward is short as well. This is part of what makes the procedure so appealing.

How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?

In the US, the average cost of buccal fat removal is $3,142. Do note that this is for the surgery itself, so the actual cost will be much more. For example, there are the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, surgical facility costs, and more.

There are also several factors that can significantly impact your final cost. Let’s explore them below.

Surgeon Skill, Training, and Board Certification

A huge chunk of the bichectomy surgery cost will be the surgeon’s fee. This is because in the majority of cases (if not all), you get what you pay for.

It takes a lot of training and hands-on experience for a surgeon to do precise work, so these professionals charge more. This is especially true if they’re highly experienced, have fellowship training in facial surgery, and have strong reputations. In addition, board certification also increases the price, but it gives you peace of mind as it means the surgeon’s had formal training and oversight.

Facility Type and Anesthesia Choice

Where the surgery happens matters too. For example, if the procedure happens in an accredited hospital or a fully equipped ambulatory surgical center, then you’ll pay a higher price than if it happens in a small office-based suite.

On top of where you’re having the surgery, the type of anesthesia used matters as well. Most procedures are done with local anesthesia, which is the cheapest option available. But some are also done with general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, which are much more expensive since you’ll need an anesthesiologist and operating room time.

Location

If you take a look around the country regarding the price of services, you’ll see drastic variations, and the same is true regarding cheek reduction cost. Not only will the price tag be different in each state, but also city.

In general, expect to pay more in major metropolitan areas, such as Los Angeles and Miami. These cities have higher overhead, so the surgeons need to cover those and still make a profit. On the other hand, clinics in smaller cities or countries (more on this later) with lower operating costs will charge less.

Procedure Complexity and Combination Procedures

Buccal fat removal is usually fairly straightforward and quick; the surgery usually takes 30-60 minutes to complete in a single and isolated procedure. But if you have complicating anatomical factors, then you may need other corrections done, such as:

• Asymmetry correction
• Scar revisions
• Intraoperative modifications

These things can drive up the time in the OR, which will drive up the cost too.

Some people also like to combine procedures so they only go under the knife once and have one recovery period. Of course, this will make your total cost much higher, but ultimately, it’s cost-effective since you only need to pay a few fees once.

Pre-Op Testing, Imaging, and Patient Factors

It’s standard for plastic surgeons to have pre-operative assessments to make sure that you’re okay for the procedure. Of course, the things they order can add to the costs, such as:

• Bloodwork
• Electrocardiograms (ECGs)
• Specific imaging
• Medical clearance if you have chronic conditions

If you have certain factors (such as high BMI, smoking status, or medical comorbidities), you may need even more additional testing. Plus, you might need pre-op optimization or post-op monitoring too.

Post-Operative Care, Follow-Up, and Revision Policy

Even though buccal fat removal is a relatively easy and simple procedure, you may still need follow-up care, such as:

• Post-op visits
• Dressings
• Medications

Some clinics will bundle these things into the total price, while others charge more on an “a la carte” basis, such as the patient paying per visit or for specific medications and dressings. This is why it’s important to ask for quotes and a breakdown of what’s included; for services not included, get clear pricing.

Consider Mexico for Your Buccal Fat Removal Surgery

Realistically, in the US, you’ll probably pay over $5,000 for buccal fat removal from start to finish. If this feels like a huge price to pay, don’t lose hope just yet.

Instead, consider going to Mexico for your procedure. In general, you can expect plastic surgery to cost 50% to 80% less here, so the estimated bichectomy cost could be around $3,000, including the extras too.

So even if you have to book a round-trip flight and accommodations, you’ll still end up saving money. Plus, you can have a brief vacation in this beautiful country to kill two birds with one stone.

Know What to Expect for Your Buccal Fat Removal Cost

Now that you have a better idea of what the buccal fat removal cost may be for your situation, you can budget better for the surgery you want. 

But if you find that the cost in the US is too high, there are safe and affordable options in Mexico, such as with Dr. Valdez. Not only will you spend less, but you’ll also get the opportunity to explore a new country before your procedure.

Contact us today to speak to an experienced medical professional about buccal fat removal. Dr. Valdez is a top plastic surgeon in Cancun who offers tailored cosmetic solutions in a tranquil setting.