What is Buccal Fat Removal and Who is a Good Candidate?

Facial structures are unique and vary from person to person. Throughout each passing decade, certain facial features are deemed more enviable and desirable. In 2020, sharp cheek bones and strong jawlines are all the rage. With this, the popularity of buccal fat removal has risen. But what exactly is buccal fat removal, and who makes a good candidate for the procedure?

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a plastic surgery procedure for reducing prominent cheeks. The goal of buccal fat removal surgery is to thin the cheeks, specifically in the area of the cheek hollows. The result is a thinner, sharper looking face.

How is Buccal Fat Removal Performed?

During buccal fat removal, the patient is sedated through intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Then, an incision is made on the inside of the mouth, on the inner portion of the patient’s cheek(s). Afterward, the surgeon applies manual pressure to the exterior of the cheek, which pushes the buccal fat pad to protrude to the interior of the mouth. The surgeon then extracts the patient’s buccal fat pads. Once extracted from their place, the surgeon then cuts and removes the required amount of tissue from the buccal fat pad to achieve the desired cheek reduction. The remainder of the buccal fat pad then is replaced, and the two incisions are sutured.

What is the Recovery Process Like?

Following buccal fat removal surgery, you may be instructed to stay on a liquid diet for several days or longer. Your surgeon may instruct you on special mouth rinses to reduce the risk of infection. You will be given specific instructions that may include: • How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery • Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health • When to follow up with your plastic surgeon Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling decreases. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

Patients with a thin, narrow face are not the best candidates for buccal fat removal, as aging tends to naturally make the face appear thinner. The best candidates for buccal fat removal are self-conscious by the look of their chubby cheeks and are non-smokers. The best patients also have realistic expectations for the procedure, and are physically healthy. If you are interested in buccal fat removal, book a free consultation with Mia Aesthetics today!