Contouring makeup is one way to enhance the hollows of your cheeks. However, if you want a more dramatic and long-lasting effect, consider buccal fat removal. Sometimes called cheek reduction, this facial plastic surgery procedure can give you a slimmer and more sculpted look.
Dr. Victor Perez is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 25 years of surgical experience. Call 913-685-1108 or complete the form on this page to learn how he can help you achieve your cosmetic goals through buccal fat removal. Renue Aesthetic Surgery serves Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Lee's Summit, and nearby areas of Kansas and Missouri.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal and What Is It Used To Achieve?
Buccal fat removal is a minor surgical procedure that permanently removes facial fat. Specifically, it removes the buccal fat pad, which is located in the area beneath your cheekbone. Everyone has these naturally occurring pads of fat. However, their size varies from person to person.
Large buccal fat pads, which are often hereditary and unrelated to weight, can make some people feel that their face is overly round, full, or chubby. The goal of buccal fat removal is to thin the cheeks, therefore creating a more defined and sophisticated facial appearance. Patients often notice that their jawlines look sharper as well.
Am I a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Ideal candidates for buccal fat removal are bothered by overly round or chubby cheeks and want a more balanced facial appearance. You may be a candidate for this procedure if:
- You’re in good physical health
- You don’t smoke
- You have a round or full face
- You dislike the wide or puffy look of your cheeks
- You feel like your cheeks give you a childlike appearance
- You have realistic expectations
Buccal fat removal is not right for everyone. It may not be recommended if you have a narrow face because it could lead to a gaunt look as your fat pads shrink with age. If you are older, this procedure may emphasize jowls, sagging skin, and other signs of facial aging. We’ll discuss these and other factors during your consultation to see if cheek reduction surgery is a good fit.
How to Prepare for your Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
Our office will provide detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare for surgery. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications, get lab testing, or complete a medical evaluation. It’s also smart to get ready for your recovery, which may mean scheduling some social downtime, buying soft foods, and picking up a few ice packs and cold compresses.
How Long Does a Buccal Fat Removal Procedure Take?
Buccal fat removal is one of the quickest facial plastic surgeries. It can often be performed in around 20 minutes. If you decide to combine buccal fat removal with other surgeries or non-surgical treatments, it will take longer. Dr. Perez can give you a personalized time estimate.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Painful?
You’ll likely be given local anesthesia at the start of your surgery. You’ll be awake, but you won’t feel any pain. Many patients compare it to the feeling of being numbed for dental work. If you’re receiving more than one procedure, you may need general anesthesia. In that case, you won’t be awake for your buccal fat removal, and you’ll need to arrange a ride home.
How Buccal Fat Removal Works
Buccal fat removal typically starts with local or general anesthesia. Dr. Perez will then make small incisions on the insides of your cheeks. Sometimes, the buccal fat pad can be removed during a facelift, without needing these incisions. Next, Dr. Perez will remove what is usually a chestnut-size amount of fat and finish by closing the incisions. You won’t have any visible scarring because the work is done within your mouth. After the procedure, you’ll receive a special mouthwash to prevent infection. You’ll also be given instructions on how to care for your incision.
What Are the Risks Associated With Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is considered safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. However, like all surgical procedures, there’s a risk of side effects. The most common side effects are temporary and include swelling, bruising, and inflammation. More serious complications include excess removal of fat, facial asymmetry, and poor results. That’s why you should choose a skilled and experienced provider to help avoid these issues. Dr. Perez is nationally and internationally trained in the latest, safest techniques.
Other serious complications that can come from a buccal fat removal procedure include:
- Excess removal of fat
- Excessive bleeding
- Facial asymmetry
- Allergic reactions to general anesthesia
- Infection at the incision site
- Injury to facial nerves
- Facial drooping
- Prematurely aged appearance due to excessive fat removal
- Injury to salivary glands or ducts
Although these risks are rare, choosing a highly-trained surgeon is key to avoiding them and helping you achieve successful buccal fat removal results. That’s why you should choose a skilled and experienced provider to help avoid these issues. Dr. Perez is nationally and internationally trained in the latest, safest techniques.
What Is Recovery Like After Buccal Fat Removal?
After your buccal fat removal procedure, you will experience bruising, swelling, and redness. These are common symptoms that should disappear within five to seven days. However, most patients do not require much stay-at-home rest time and can return to their daily routines within 24 to 48 hours after their buccal fat removal surgery.
What Activities Should Be Avoided After Buccal Fat Removal?
Following the aftercare guidelines, as Dr. Perez recommended to you, is essential for a successful recovery. While some instructions for recovery may be specific to your physical needs and overall facial aesthetic goals, most patients should avoid the following activities during their recovery from buccal fat removal surgery:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity such as HIIT workouts or contact sports for one week.
- Do not take any narcotic pain medications for 24 hours.
- You may use a straw for drinking but limit opening your mouth and stretching your facial muscles for up to one week.
- Avoid drinking extremely hot or cold beverages until your anesthesia subsides.
- Avoid brushing your teeth 48 hours after your procedure. After this time period, be extra gentle while brushing your teeth.
When Will I See the Results of My Buccal Fat Surgery?
Results from your buccal fat surgery can be seen around two to three weeks after your procedure. Within six to nine months, you will notice continued improvement and changes to your overall facial structure. Over time, you will begin to see the narrowing of your face as it will appear more defined and contoured.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Permanent?
Yes. During buccal fat removal surgery, the buccal fat pads are permanently removed, with no chance of them growing back. Unless you suddenly gain or lose a significant amount of weight, the face shape you achieve after your buccal fat removal procedure should remain in shape for the rest of your life.
At Renue Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Perez and our team are dedicated to providing natural-looking results to each patient, ensuring satisfaction with each procedure. With a personalized treatment plan developed by taking into consideration the information you provide during your one-on-one consultation, our treatments are tailored to provide results that can satisfy and achieve your aesthetic goals.
How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?
The average cost for a buccal fat removal surgery is $2,883, according to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Other factors, such as surgeon expertise, credibility, location, medication costs, and your overall aesthetic goals, can impact the total cost of your procedure.
Because buccal fat removal is typically a cosmetic procedure, insurance companies will not cover the cost of this procedure. However, our team is happy to work with you to find the best financing option for you.
Schedule a Consultation in Overland Park
Are you ready to take the first step toward sculpted and flattering cheeks? Call 913-685-1108 or complete the form on this page to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Victor Perez. Renue Aesthetic Surgery happily welcomes patients from Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Lee's Summit, and nearby areas of Kansas and Missouri.
