In cosmetic surgery, there’s a buzz about a particular treatment that’s helping people redefine the way they look and feel about themselves – the buccal fat removal. It’s all about shaping facial contours, boosting confidence, and embracing a more youthful appearance.
What is Cheek Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove the buccal fat pads in the cheeks. These are naturally occurring pads of fat that contribute to the roundness or “chubbiness” of a face.
By removing or reducing these pads, surgeons are able to create a more sculpted, less full look to the face – enhancing the presence of cheekbones and creating a more defined facial contour.
This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and can take between 30 minutes to an hour.
The surgeon makes incisions on the inner side of each cheek, removes the buccal fat pad, then stitches the incisions back together. After a period of healing and recovery, the results culminate in a sculpted and aesthetically pleasing face shape.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Buccal Cheek Fat Removal?
Ideal candidates for buccal fat removal are individuals who:
- Are in good health both physically and mentally.
- Have a naturally round or chubby face, irrespective of body weight.
- Desire a more defined facial structure or high cheekbones.
- Have realistic expectations of what the surgery can achieve.
However, every individual is unique. Therefore, a thorough consultation with a cosmetic surgeon is crucial to assess suitability for the procedure and discuss any risks, complications, or alternative treatments. It’s important to understand this isn’t a weight loss solution; rather, it’s a way to specifically target and sculpt facial appearance.
What Are The Benefits Of Buccal Fat Reduction?
Buccal fat removal cheeks offer a number of significant benefits, making it a popular choice among cosmetic surgeries.
These include:
- Improved Facial Definition: Reduction in facial fat enhances the cheekbones and jawline, providing a more sculpted and defined facial appearance.
- Increased Confidence: With improved facial contours comes boosted self-esteem and confidence, impacting one’s social and professional life positively.
- Permanent Results: Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they don’t regenerate, making the results of the surgery long-lasting.
- Minimal Scarring: Since the incision is made on the inner side of the cheek, potential scars are well hidden and almost unnoticeable.
- Simple Procedure & Quick Recovery: The surgery itself is relatively simple, with patients usually able to go home the same day, and most people can return to their standard routines within a week.
How Much Does Buccal Cheek Fat Removal Cost?
Buccal cheek fat removal cost can vary considerably, depending on the surgeon’s expertise, geographical location, and the specifics of the procedure. However, as a guideline, costs typically range between $2,000 to $5,000. It’s important to remember that since buccal fat removal is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, it’s rarely covered by insurance.
What Happens Before Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
Before the surgery, a thorough consultation is conducted to understand the patient’s medical history, expectations, and concerns. The surgeon will assess whether the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure and briefly explain the surgery details.
Patients are usually advised to:
- Stop smoking for a certain period before and after the procedure to promote better healing.
- Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal supplements due to increased bleeding risks.
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen to ensure optimum health before the surgery.
It’s recommended to arrange transportation home after the surgery as patients may feel a bit groggy post-procedure due to the anesthetics used.
In preparation for surgery, patients may need to undergo lab testing or a medical evaluation and should prepare questions or concerns to discuss with their surgeon. Patients must enter into the procedure fully informed and comfortable.
What Are The Risks Associated With Removing Buccal Fat In The Cheeks?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with buccal fat removal. Though complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of them.
Some risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Scarring (though minimal due to the incision’s location)
- Facial nerve damage
- Asymmetric or dissatisfying results
- Allergic reaction to anesthesia
During the consultation, it’s critical to discuss these risks and any concerns you may have with your surgeon. Proper communication and preparation can minimize these risks and result in a successful procedure.
How Should I Prepare For Buccal Cheek Fat Removal?
To maximize the chances of a successful outcome and minimize risks, it’s essential to prepare adequately for the procedure.
Steps to prepare for buccal fat removal include:
- Have a thorough consultation with your surgeon to ensure you’re a suitable candidate, discuss expectations, and address any concerns.
- Arrange for various lab tests and medical evaluations, as recommended by your surgeon.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by consuming a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise before the procedure.
- Prepare a list of medications you’re currently taking and discuss this with your surgeon to address possible interactions or complications.
What Are The Steps Of A Buccal Fat Removal Procedure?
Buccal fat removal procedure can be broken down into four main steps, as follows:
Step 1 – Anesthesia
Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the surgical area and ensure the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure. In certain cases, sedation may also be used, leading to a light sleep-like state.
Step 2 – The incision
The surgeon creates small incisions on the inner side of each cheek. This placement ensures any resulting scars will be discreet and virtually unnoticeable. Once the incisions are made, the surgeon carefully exposes the buccal fat pads.
Step 3 – Closing the incisions
After the fat is removed, the incisions are sutured closed. Dissolvable or traditional stitches may be used depending on your surgeon’s preferences. The procedure generally takes between 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 4 – See the results
Results from buccal fat removal become gradually noticeable as the swelling subsides over the weeks following the surgery. Patients can expect to see the final, long-lasting outcome within a few months as the body fully heals and adapts to the new facial contour.
What Is The Recovery Time For Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
The recovery time from buccal fat removal is typically shorter as compared to other invasive cosmetic procedures. Immediately after the surgery, it’s normal to experience some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon. Soft foods and liquids are generally recommended in the initial days following the procedure to promote healing and ease pain during eating.
Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a week, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2-3 weeks or until full recovery.
What Results Should I Expect After Buccal Fat Removal?
Results from buccal fat removal surgery are not immediate but gradually visible as the swelling decreases over a few weeks to months. This procedure makes the face appear more contoured and less round, offering a sharper, more defined look with prominent cheekbones. The alteration achieved is often subtle but enough to make a noticeable impact on one’s appearance.
Remember, buccal fat removal results are permanent, and the removed fat doesn’t grow back. However, it’s important to maintain a stable weight post-surgery, as significant weight gain could possibly affect the overall aesthetic outcome.
How Do I Choose A Plastic Surgeon For Buccal Fat Removal?
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial for successful buccal fat removal.
Here are a few guidelines to help you make an informed decision:
- Certification and Experience: The surgeon should be board-certified and experienced in buccal fat removal procedures.
- Before and After Photos: Reviewing before and after photos of previous patients can lend insights about the surgeon’s aesthetic style and their ability to deliver the results you’re seeking.
- Reviews and Testimonials: Patient reviews and testimonials can help you understand the surgeon’s professionalism, bedside manner, and overall patient satisfaction.
- Your Comfort Level: You should feel comfortable asking questions, discussing your concerns, and sharing your expectations with your surgeon. Effective communication and trust are integral to achieving satisfactory results.
- Hospital Privileges: Surgeons affiliating to reputable hospitals meet the hospital’s strict patient care and safety standards, which is always a plus.
- Transparent about Risks and Complications: A responsible surgeon will be honest about the potential risks and complications of the procedure.
Common Questions You Can Ask Your Provider About Buccal Fat Removal
It’s important to thoroughly discuss your concerns and expectations with your provider before undergoing buccal fat removal.
Here are some common questions you might consider asking:
- How many years of experience do you have performing buccal fat removal procedures?
- Are you board-certified in plastic surgery?
- What type of anesthesia will be used for this procedure, and are there any risks associated with it?
- What is the typical recovery time for your patients after buccal fat removal?
- How can I manage any pain or discomfort during my recovery?
- Are there any restrictions or specific instructions to follow before and after the surgery?
- Can I see buccal cheek fat removal before and after pictures of your previous patients who have undergone buccal fat removal?
- How long will it take to see the final, desired outcome?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, and how can they be minimized?
- In case of complications or dissatisfaction with the results, how would you handle the situation?
Feel free to add any additional, personalized questions to this list that may be relevant to your unique circumstances or concerns.
Experience Expert Buccal Fat Removal with Dr. Bret A. Johnson, MD
When considering buccal fat removal, choosing a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon is crucial. We recommend Dr. Bret A. Johnson, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers expert buccal fat removal services.
Located in Dallas, Texas, and Plano, Texas, Dr. Johnson and his professional team have a proven track record of delivering excellent results while maintaining the highest patient care and safety standards.
By entrusting your buccal fat removal to Dr. Johnson, you can expect personalized attention and outstanding results tailored to your needs and desires. Contact his practice today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to a more sculpted and defined facial appearance.
