Buccal Fat Removal
A buccal fat removal is a procedure to remove fat from the mid face and cheeks, leading to a more feminine and refined appearance along with a smooth jawline contour. The procedure has gained popularity due to its uptake among celebrities.
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Treatment Time
1-2 hours; buccal fat pad removal is completed under a general anesthetic as the incisions are made inside the mouth to prevent any scars on the face and decrease the risk of infection.
Incisions
Small incisions of 2cm are made inside the mouth, in the area beside your molars along your upper teeth. Absorbable sutures are used to minimize pain postoperatively. No scars are visible on the cheek or face.
Benefits
The main benefits of buccal fat removal include more defined cheekbones and jawline, a more feminine appearance, improved facial symmetry, and enhanced self confidence.
Technique
A small incision is made inside the mouth close to the molars and fat is carefully teased out from deep within the cheek. A small amount of fat (2-4 cc) is removed. The area is checked meticulously for bleeding and the mucosa inside the mouth is closed with absorbable sutures.
Recovery
The sutures are dissolvable and are absorbed within 1-2 weeks. The majority of the swelling and bruising is gone within 2 weeks, however final results should not be expected before 4-6 weeks.
Risks
The main risks include bleeding, infection, wound healing issues, and numbness. It is also possible too much or too little fat is removed, which may leads to dissatisfaction with the procedure or asymmetry.
Who are the best candidates?
Patients who have a round or oval facial appearance, who desire more refined cheekbones and jawline, otherwise healthy, non-smokers, and have reasonable expectations.
Adjunct Procedures
Buccal fat removal can easily be combined with other facial aesthetic procedures such as a facelift, neck liposuction, facial fat grafting, upper or lower blepharoplasty, or upper lip lift.