Buccal Fat Pad Removal
What is a Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
Buccal fat pad removal is a surgical procedure to reduce the fullness of the cheeks by removing excess fat from the buccal fat pads. These are pads of fat located deep within the cheeks. By reducing the volume of these fat pads, the appearance of a slimmer and more defined face can be achieved.
This procedure is often sought by individuals who have a round or full face shape and desire a more sculpted look.
How is a Buccal Fat Pad Removal performed?
Buccal fat pad removal is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions inside the mouth, near the upper molars, to access the buccal fat pads. The excess fat is then removed or repositioned to achieve the desired facial contour. The incisions are closed, and there are no visible external scars.
Who is a candidate for this surgery?
Ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal are individuals with good overall health and realistic expectations about the procedure. They should have a significant amount of buccal fat contributing to a round or full face shape. Patients with a strong jawline and good skin elasticity tend to achieve better results.
How long is the surgery?
The duration of a buccal fat pad removal surgery typically ranges from 1 to 2 hours.
What is the recovery like?
Recovery from buccal fat pad removal is generally mild. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the cheeks and jaw area. It's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activities and consuming soft foods for a few days. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week, but it may take several weeks for the final results to become apparent.
Our Results
What are the benefits?
Buccal fat pad removal is a surgical procedure to reduce the fullness of the cheeks by removing excess fat.
Benefits:
- More defined facial features
- Slimmer face shape
- Improved facial contour
Buccal Fat Pad Removal FAQ's
Buccal fat pad removal is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is generally mild and can be managed with prescribed pain medications. Most patients experience some swelling and tenderness in the cheeks for a few days.
Risks include infection, bleeding, asymmetry, and changes in facial sensation. There is also a risk of damage to nearby structures such as salivary ducts. These risks are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon, but it’s important to discuss them during your consultation.
Most patients need about 1 week off from work and routine activities to allow for initial healing. Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 2 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions to guide your recovery.
Initial results can be seen once the swelling begins to subside, typically within 2-3 weeks. Final results, with a more contoured and defined cheek appearance, will become apparent over the next 2-3 months as the tissues settle.
The results of buccal fat pad removal are generally permanent, as the fat pads do not regenerate. However, significant weight gain could affect the overall appearance of your face.
Buccal fat pad removal involves incisions inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars on the outside of the face. The incisions heal quickly and are hidden within the natural folds of the mouth.
Yes, buccal fat pad removal can be combined with other facial procedures such as chin augmentation, cheek implants, or facelift surgery to enhance overall facial harmony. Your surgeon can recommend the best combination for your aesthetic goals.
Contact Us
Have any question?
Get in touch
Reach out to us with any questions or concerns. We're here to help!
