Buccal Fat Removal
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Types of Buccal Fat Removal
Why Buccal Fat Removal?
What Conditions Are Buccal Fat Removal a Solution to?
Steps to getting your procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Cost of Procedure
Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure
Procedure

Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction, buccal fat pad excision, or bichectomy, is the surgical procedure in which the buccal fat is removed, resulting in a youthful and aesthetically appealing appearance while achieving harmony in facial contour. The ideal candidate for surgery is the one with a strong zygomatic bone (cheek bone) hidden by prominent cheeks that cause excess facial roundness and a heavy-looking face. Following the excision of the fat pad, the volume of the lowest third of the face is reduced, the cheeks become hollow, and the zygomatic arch is accentuated. The surgery results may be observed between 4 and 6 months after the swelling subsides.

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure for cheek contouring and midface tapering. Other names for the procedure are cheek reduction, buccal fat excision, bichectomy, or buccal lipectomy.  

People with excessive buccal fat may present a child-like or overweight appearance despite appropriate weight for height. Surgical excision of buccal fat through intraoral incisions may result in zygomatic (cheekbone) prominence and inverted triangular beauty. Moreover, the patient's age and sex do not affect the procedure's outcomes. 

Regarding the anesthesia regimen, the procedure is carried out under local anesthesia or conscious sedation. General anesthesia is required for extensive surgery when procedures like rhinoplasty or submental liposuction are performed simultaneously. Buccal fat removal is considered a simple and safe procedure that is routinely performed. However, there is scarce knowledge regarding the procedure's long-term effects and role in facial aging.  

Rare complications are facial asymmetry, hemorrhage, hematoma, facial nerve impairment, mandible dislocation, pain when chewing, trismus (spasm of jaw muscles), or infection. The procedure is not suitable for patients with hemifacial atrophy (progressive deterioration of the skin and soft tissues on one side of the face) or hypoplastic malar bones (underdeveloped cheekbone).


Steps of the procedure

Buccal fat removal involves the following steps:

Anesthesia

The patient is placed supine with 30° head-of-bed elevation, and anesthetic medicines are administered to comfort them during the procedure. Usually, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation. However, the surgeon may recommend general anesthesia, depending on the patient's specific condition. 

The incisions

A buccal fat removal procedure requires intraoral incisions (incisions inside the mouth). Sometimes, buccal fat removal is performed during facelift surgery. It rules out the use of incisions for removing cheek fat.

Closing the incisions

Incisions inside the mouth are closed using sutures. Usually, the sutures are absorbable, but each surgeon adopts a unique approach to performing the procedure. Be sure not to play with the sutures with your tongue until they are entirely absorbed or cleared by your surgeon.

Postoperative care

There is standard postoperative care for patients getting buccal fat removal through any procedure:

Patients should take a clear liquid diet and use antiseptic mouthwash four times daily. They should use cold compression pads five times a day for 10 minutes. This protocol should be carried out for the first three postoperative days, and neck and chin elastic compression garments should be worn 12 hours a day for seven days. 

Types of Buccal Fat Removal

  • Which Buccal Fat Removal is Right for You?

    Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reducing fullness in the cheek area. There are several different methods of removing buccal fat, including surgical excision, liposuction, endoscopic removal, and non-surgical dissolving. Surgical excision involves making an incision inside the cheek to remove the fat and is typically performed under general anesthesia. Liposuction involves using a small, hollow tube to suction out the fat and can be performed under local or general anesthesia. Endoscopic removal uses a small camera and instruments inserted through the mouth to remove the fat and is typically performed under general anesthesia. Non-surgical dissolving involves injecting an enzyme that breaks down the fat over time and is performed without any anesthesia. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for an individual will depend on their specific needs and goals. It is important to discuss the options and potential outcomes with a qualified plastic surgeon.

  • Surgical excision

    Surgical excision is a method of buccal fat removal in which an incision is made inside the cheek to remove the fat. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take one to two hours. The surgeon will make a small incision inside the cheek, locate and remove the buccal fat pad, and then close the incision with sutures or stitches. The recovery period for a surgical excision typically lasts one to two weeks, with full recovery taking several weeks. Although the procedure is considered safe and effective, it does carry the risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. It is important to discuss the options and potential outcomes with a qualified plastic surgeon.

  • Liposuction

    Liposuction is a method of buccal fat removal in which a small, hollow tube, called a cannula, is inserted into the cheek to suction out the fat. This procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia, and typically takes one to two hours. The surgeon will make a small incision inside the cheek, insert the cannula, and use it to suction out the fat. The incision will then be closed with sutures or stitches. The recovery period for liposuction typically lasts one to two weeks, with full recovery taking several weeks. Although liposuction is considered safe and effective, it does carry the risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. It is important to discuss the options and potential outcomes with a qualified plastic surgeon.

  • Endoscopic removal

    Endoscopic removal is a method of buccal fat removal in which a small camera and instruments are inserted through the mouth to remove the fat. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and can take one to two hours. The surgeon will make small incisions in the mouth and insert a camera and instruments to locate and remove the buccal fat pad. The incisions will then be closed with sutures or stitches. The recovery period for endoscopic removal typically lasts one to two weeks, with full recovery taking several weeks. This method of buccal fat removal offers several benefits, such as reduced scarring and a quicker recovery period compared to traditional surgical excision. However, it does carry the risks associated with any surgical procedure, such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. It is important to discuss the options and potential outcomes with a qualified plastic surgeon.

  • Non-surgical dissolving

    Non-surgical dissolving is a method of buccal fat removal in which an enzyme is injected into the cheek to break down the fat over time. This procedure is performed without any anesthesia and typically takes less than one hour. The enzyme is injected into the cheek to dissolve the fat, and the body will naturally process and remove the fat over time. Non-surgical dissolving does not require any incisions or stitches, and the recovery period is minimal. This method of buccal fat removal offers several benefits, such as reduced scarring and a quicker recovery period compared to traditional surgical methods. However, it may not be as effective as traditional surgical methods, and the results may take several months to become apparent. It is important to discuss the options and potential outcomes with a qualified plastic surgeon.

Buccal Fat Removal

Why Buccal Fat Removal?

In certain individuals, an abundant amount of fat tissue can cause their faces to appear round, resulting in an unpleasant facial structure and giving off the perception of being overweight, even when the patient's Body Mass Index (BMI) is normal. Furthermore, some patients have a tendency to bite the insides of their cheeks which causes harm and bleeding. This can cause a considerable amount of distress when carrying out basic activities related to the oral cavity. Bichectomy or buccal fat removal surgery is a medical procedure that is done to prevent facial disharmony and is used to treat harm and ulcerations due to the biting of intraoral muscles.

It is indispensable to evaluate the motives for a bichectomy and separate them from strictly aesthetic, practical, or aesthetically-practical aims. Bichectomy is an optional surgical operation meant for people without intense medical problems who wish for more sculpted facial angles or want to alleviate distress due to recurrent trauma to their inner cheeks. 

The impediments and dangers of this operative process should be taken into account with caution prior to the procedure. Moreover, it is necessary to converse with the patient regarding their outlooks without guaranteeing and committing to results that are at odds with the truth. 

The most noteworthy grounds for having a buccal fat removal operation are:

  • Better appearance
  • Simple and safe procedure
  • Slims/tones the face
  • No visible scarring
  • Permanent results

What Conditions Are Buccal Fat Removal a Solution to?

The purpose of a buccal fat removal operation is to shape the lower face and reduce the overall fullness of the face. This procedure adheres to the standard of an "inverted triangle" which is an aesthetically pleasing look. This method has become highly popular recently to acquire a more slender lower face outline, particularly in the middle part of the cheek. As a result, buccal fat removal (bichectomy) is an essential element of facial aesthetics. It is advertised as a technique to improve the visage of the center and lower third of the face by emphasizing the prominence of the zygomatic bone and providing a sculpted facial look. Nonetheless, the scientific proof supporting the efficacy of this treatment is insignificant and of poor quality. The following are the problems that a buccal fat removal surgery can resolve:

  • Excessive buccal fat pad

    The buccal fat pad is a distinct structure that is situated in the middle part of the face. It plays a significant role in facial beauty. It has a functional purpose as well, which is to aid in chewing, mastication, and suckling, particularly in babies. If the buccal fat is overly abundant, people may express dissatisfaction with having chubby faces, full cheeks, or childlike features. Thus, buccal fat pad removal or buccal lipectomy is suggested as a way to create more defined facial angles and enhance aesthetics.

  • Excess weight on facial muscles

    Buccal fat removal is a relatively easy medical procedure that leads to minimize discomfort for the patient and gives the face a more extended look. Apart from slimming down the face, the process also decreases the strain on the skin, which assists in inhibiting the skin from drooping or becoming misshapen. As a result, it gives a youthful appearance overall.

  • Full/chubby face

    Individuals often choose to undergo a Buccal fat removal procedure in order to decrease the size of their chubby cheeks and obtain an angular face with slender edges. This surgery seeks to create a smooth passage between the various sections of the face like the upper face, middle face, and lower face. In some cases, this process is combined with other cosmetic treatments like rhinoplasty to refine the shape of the nose. The objective of the Buccal fat removal procedure is to decrease the fullness in the cheeks with long-lasting results and no visible scars.

Steps to getting your procedure

Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

A. It has been established that the buccal fat pad begins to expand in early life and continues to expand until adulthood, rising in size from 4000 cubic mm to 8000 cubic mm. Research has also suggested that between the age of 20 and 50, the pad size drops to 7000 cubic mm. Because of this, it is suggested that people wait until they are in their twenties before they have a bichectomy. Additionally, as the buccal fat pad reduces with age, its removal can bring out the appearance of lower jowls which can speed up facial distortions that come with aging, such as the skin and muscles receding into the bones. Therefore, other procedures such as autologous fat grafts and scaffold injections may be necessary to restore the face.

A. After getting the buccal fat removal surgery, many patients think the procedure is worth the cost. The buccal fat removal offers permanent results. Even after you gain weight, the cheeks may not return to their preoperative state. The procedure is painless and relatively quick, and if appropriately performed, buccal fat removal is an excellent way to contour your face and angulate your zygomatic bone.

A. Buccal fat removal is performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure itself is painless because anesthesia numbs your buccal cavity. You will only feel a slight prick while administering anesthesia. However, days after surgery, you may feel soreness. Soreness can be controlled by taking over-the-counter medicines and applying cold compresses. If the pain persists, talk to your surgeon right away. It's highly recommended not to play with the sutures with your tongue until they are entirely absorbed or removed by the surgeon. Following postoperative guidelines helps in faster recovery and results in lesser complications.

A. In order to perform a buccal fat removal procedure, local anesthesia will be administered so that you won't experience any discomfort. During this operation, you will remain conscious. On the other hand, if this procedure is done together with other cosmetic operations such as a nose job or facelift, general anesthesia will be given, meaning you will not be awake.

Cost of Procedure

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that the cost of buccal fat removal surgery may be determined by the experience of the surgeon and the region in which they practice. It is essential to check with the plastic surgeon's office to learn the final cost. This amount may involve the surgeon's fee, anesthesia charges, medications, hospital or medical center fees, x-rays, and other tests. In the process of selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon for buccal fat removal surgery, it is important to consider their expertise as well as your comfort level with them; the final cost is not the only factor. Additionally, the cost of the procedure will depend on the patient's requirements and preferences. Minor changes in cheek muscles require less time than extensive surgery, thereby affecting the price.

Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure

If you wish to upgrade your self-image and assurance through a cosmetic medical procedure or other beauty treatments, Yes Doctor can aid you in doing so with a straightforward and convenient way to pay for your out-of-pocket expenses. This revolutionary program offers a Buy Now Pay Later option that is beneficial to both the patient and the service provider. The patient will be able to access financing without any pre-payment charges and pay back the loan in small simple installments. On the other hand, healthcare professionals will receive payment quickly, which helps them draw in new customers, receive payment faster, and boost their revenue.