What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Studies show that we form first impressions from people’s faces; all it takes is a split second for someone to make up their mind about you. This means that how you present makes a huge difference in life, especially if you’re in a career where looks matter. Even if you’re not, how you look and feel can have a huge impact on your self-confidence.

Ideally, a chiseled appearance is desired, but some of us can’t lose that facial fat, even by exercising and dieting. If that’s you, then consider buccal fat removal.

What is buccal fat removal? Can it give you the chiseled face you’ve always dreamed of? And if so, what does the procedure and healing process entail?

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is also known as bichectomy, buccal lipectomy, or cheek reduction surgery. This is a cosmetic surgical procedure that slims your lower cheeks, resulting in a more sculpted facial appearance.

This is done by removing the buccal fat pads, which are fat deposits that are located deep within your lower cheeks. This is distinct from subcutaneous fat, which is found right beneath your skin.

The buccal fat pads play an important role for infants during the suckling phase. As we grow older, the fat pads usually decrease a little naturally. But for some people, they remain large even in adulthood, and this may give them a “baby face” or even “chipmunk cheeks,” even if they have a healthy body weight.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

Not every person will be suitable for buccal fat removal. A good candidate should fit the following criteria:

• Adult with full or round cheeks
• Stable body weight
• Good overall health
• Non-smokers (or willing to smoke before and after the surgery)
• Realistic expectations

You won’t be an ideal candidate if you have:

• A naturally thin or angular face
• Significant skin laxity
• Unrealistic expectations of a dramatic transformation

The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

The buccal fat removal procedure starts with a consultation, where you and the plastic surgeon discuss your goals. They’ll also go over your medical history, which includes any conditions you may have, as well as the current medications you’re on and what previous surgeries you’ve had.

With the information given during this appointment, you and your surgeon can figure out if you’re a good candidate and whether you’re a good fit for each other.

The Surgery

Plastic surgeons will typically perform buccal fat removal with local anesthesia, but it’s common to use general anesthesia or intravenous sedation as well. You and your surgeon will decide on that together based on your comfort level.

Once the anesthesia or sedation works, they’ll make a small incision inside your mouth, usually on the inner cheek, between the upper molars and the second premolar. What this means is that there will be no visible external scars!

The surgeon will then gently expose and extract a portion of the buccal fat pad. They’ll be careful to remove only a minimal amount so that your face will still look balanced. Lastly, they’ll close the incision with dissolvable sutures.

This entire surgery should take 30-60 minutes, and you can typically go home on the same day.

The Recovery Process

What’s great about buccal fat removal is that the recovery process is relatively straightforward. You’ll have mild swelling, soreness, and numbness in the cheeks for the first few days, so you should probably eat a liquid diet.

By weeks 2-3, most of the swelling should subside, and the incisions should be healed. You’ll see the final contour in your cheeks become visible two to four months afterward, as the tissues settle.

While you’re recovering, you should rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash after eating to prevent infection. You should also avoid strenuous activity and smoking during the early stages of recovery. To reduce swelling, sleep with your head elevated.

Most importantly, follow all of your plastic surgeon’s instructions closely. Don’t skip medication doses or checkups.

Potential Risks and Complications

This plastic surgery is definitely safe, especially when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. However, there are always potential risks and complications with any procedure, so it’s good to know about them beforehand. That way, you’re prepared.

The potential risks include:

• Infection or bleeding
• Asymmetry or uneven results
• Overcorrection (resulting in hollow cheeks or a gaunt appearance)
• Nerve or duct injury (rare, but possible)
• Persistent swelling or numbness
• Unfavorable healing or scarring inside the mouth

Is Buccal Fat Removal Permanent?

Yes, buccal fat removal is permanent since the fat in the pad area doesn’t regenerate when it’s been removed. You’ll have:

• Sharper cheek contours
• More prominent cheekbones
• A refined jawline and a slimmer profile

With that said, that doesn’t mean your face will stay the same forever. Natural aging and weight fluctuations can affect your facial appearance over time.

The Cost of Buccal Fat Removal

The average cost of buccal fat removal in the US is $3,142. This is excluding other associated costs, such as:

• Surgeon’s fee
• Anesthesia fees
• Medical tests
• X-rays

When you total everything up, it’s likely that the total cost is well over $5,000.

To save yourself some money, consider having the procedure in Mexico. You can save 50% to 80% off your surgery, and there are many reputable plastic surgeons in this country, such as Dr. Valdez.

Consider Buccal Fat Removal for a More Contoured Face

Now you know the answer to the question, “What is buccal fat removal?” It’s a simple and fast procedure that removes fat from the buccal fat pad, resulting in a more chiseled facial appearance.

Considering that the surgery itself is short and there’s a short downtime, it’s a reasonable avenue to explore if you want to contour your face. And since the results are permanent, it’s worth the money spent.

Contact us today to hear more about buccal fat removal or to schedule a consultation. Dr. Valdez is a RealSelf Verified plastic surgeon with board certifications and almost two decades of experience.