Buccal Fat Removal

You may not know about buccal fat removal, but you have probably seen the results on celebrities and others who have slimmed down the fullness from their cheeks. The buccal fat bad is a small section of fat found in the hollow area of the cheek. It can be various sizes, which gives faces their unique look because it impacts the overall shape.

People with larger buccal fat pads are often referred to as having a “baby face.” While there isn’t anything wrong with having larger pads, some people prefer to have thinner cheeks. Fortunately, they can achieve this goal with the help of buccal fat removal.

Also known as cheek reduction surgery, buccal fat removal is a type of plastic surgery. Often accompanying other procedures, such as a facelift, neck liposuction, or rhinoplasty, buccal fat removal is often performed as an outpatient procedure. It is different from cheek augmentation, where implants are used to add definition.

The surgeon will make an incision inside your cheek so there are no visible scars. They will cut and remove the fat and close the incision with dissolvable stitches. You can go home the same day, but you will be on a liquid diet for a few days after the procedure. You will then move on to soft foods while the incision heals before returning to a normal diet.

It takes about three weeks for a full recovery, during which time you may use a special mouthwash to help prevent infection. However, it can take several months before you see the full results as your cheeks develop their new shape.

If you want to change the shape of your face and reshape your round cheeks, buccal fat pad removal may be right for you. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how Dr. Lapuerta can help you look and feel your best. As a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, he has performed hundreds of facial plastic surgery procedures to help patients achieve their goals. Let us help create a new you and find out more about buccal fat pad removal surgery.