Posted September 27, 2023 in Facial Plastic Surgery
We’ve all seen it: celebrities with previously rounded faces suddenly have razor-sharp cheekbones.
Is this the work of wildly talented makeup artists?
In some cases, yes, but the real story is a plastic surgery procedure called buccal fat removal.
This facial contouring surgery is becoming increasingly popular as it permanently eliminates “chipmunk cheeks.”
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that permanently removes the buccal fat pad that rests inside the lower cheek. Everyone has buccal fat pads, but the size varies from person to person.
The size of these buccal fat pads can make the cheeks look rounded and full, often causing individuals to look younger or “chubbier” than they are. Each person’s buccal fat pads remain the same size — they do not change with dieting, weight loss, or exercise.
This can be extremely frustrating if you want a lean, sculpted look. So, in some cases, buccal fat pad removal is the best solution.
Who Is a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is not for everyone — this is a permanent procedure that can dramatically change your face. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not grow back. Because of the permanence, it’s best to be absolutely sure you want this procedure and that it will complement your overall features for years to come.
Additionally, this procedure is ideal for people with noticeably large cheeks that do not respond to dieting or exercise. Patients are typically adults who have seen no change in their cheeks or face shape over the years — which means they probably have large buccal fat pads.
One more thing to consider: our face naturally loses volume as we age. If you have a thin face but want an extra “edge” or sculpted look, removing your buccal fat pads can make you look overly thin and gaunt, progressively worsening as you lose facial volume.
Candidates then:
- Have disproportionately large cheeks
- Dislike their “chubby” cheeks
- Desire a leaner, more angular facial appearance
- Have realistic expectations for results
- Are generally in good health and are non-smokers
To determine your eligibility, Dr. Messa, our board-certified plastic surgeon at Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center, will listen to your goals and concerns, conduct a physical examination, and determine if you are a candidate.
What Is the Buccal Fat Pad Removal Procedure?
Buccal fat pad removal is a simple procedure that can be completed in 30 minutes to an hour.
During the procedure, Dr. Messa will use a local anesthetic to fully numb the treatment area. Then, he will make very small incisions on the inside of the cheeks before removing the buccal fat pads and contouring the cheeks. Lastly, he will close the incisions with dissolvable sutures.
Buccal fat pad removal is performed on an outpatient basis, so you can return home immediately following the procedure.
Buccal Fat Pad Removal Recovery
Because the procedure is so straightforward, your recovery should be relatively comfortable. Your sutures will dissolve on their own, so you do not need to return to have Dr. Messa remove them.
Your cheeks will be very swollen for the first few days — but don’t worry, it’s not permanent! This should lessen after about a week. You should stick with soft foods for the first few days and avoid crunchy or hard foods until your incisions are healed.
Once your swelling has gone down, you will see an immediate improvement in the size of your cheeks, with full results visible after several weeks in some cases.
Your final results will reveal a sculpted, lean contour to the face, providing a more appealing facial balance.
Interested in Learning More About Buccal Fat Removal in Weston, FL?
Call Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center today at (954) 659-7760 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Messa and discover how buccal fat removal can help you achieve the look you deserve.