All Procedures
Cheek Reduction Surgery (Buccal Fat Removal)
Useful information for patients on Buccal Fat Removal - defining the cheek area by removal of cheek fat.
What Is Cheek Reduction Surgery?
Cheek reduction surgery, or buccal fat removal, is a procedure designed to refine the midface by removing excess fat from the buccal fat pads. This creates a slimmer, more contoured appearance of the lower cheeks and enhances overall facial definition.
The incision is made discreetly inside the mouth, through which the buccal fat is removed. The procedure may be performed alone or combined with other aesthetic surgeries such as facelift, rhinoplasty or lip augmentation.
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, buccal fat removal is considered safe and effective.
However, as with all surgery, there are risks that should be discussed with your surgeon.
Who Is It for?
Buccal fat removal may be considered by patients who:
- Have round or disproportionately full cheeks that are not in balance with their overall body weight.
- Desire a slimmer, more defined facial contour.
- Are in good health, with realistic expectations.
Buccal fat removal is generally not recommended for patients with naturally narrow or thin faces, or for those with significant age-related volume loss, as it may accentuate a hollow or gaunt appearance over time. It is also contraindicated in conditions such as progressive hemifacial atrophy (Parry-Romberg syndrome).
Preparation
Before surgery, patients usually undergo:
- A detailed medical history and complete physical examination.
- Review of current medications.
- Smoking cessation and lifestyle factors.
Useful Information
Ensure you consider all aspects of a procedure. You can speak to your surgeon about these areas of the surgery in more detail during a consultation.
Length
How Long Is the Procedure?
Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Anesthesia
Do I Need Anesthesia?
Local anesthesia is commonly used, sometimes with light sedation.
Inpatient/Outpatient
Is The Procedure Inpatient or Outpatient?
This is usually an outpatient procedure.
Additional Information
You may experience some of the following after surgery:
- Temporary swelling
- Mild discomfort or pain
- Temporary numbness in the cheek area
Some risks are stated below:
- Excessive bleeding
- Hematoma (collection of blood beneath the skin)
- Nerve injury, resulting in numbness or, rarely, facial weakness
- Parotid duct injury (salivary gland trauma)
- Seroma (fluid accumulation)
- Over-correction or under-correction
- Asymmetry
- Prolonged swelling
- Possibility of revision surgery
Patients are advised to avoid pressure on the cheeks and adhere to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days, before gradually returning to a normal diet. An antiseptic mouthwash is typically prescribed and should be used for 2 to 3 weeks to minimize infectionrisk.
Swelling usually improves significantly within 3 to 5 days, although minor limitations in speech, eating or facial movement may occur during the early recovery phase. Most patients return to work within 5 to 7 days, once the swelling has subsided. Strenuous activity and contact sports should be avoided for 2 to 3 weeks, and smoking should be avoided during the recovery period to promote healing.
Final results are usually visible within a few months, once swelling fully subsides and tissues have settled. The outcome is typically long-lasting; however, as the natural aging process continues, changes in facial volume and structure may subtly alter the facial contours over time.
Please note: Individual results vary from patient to patient due to varying factors such as age, skin quality, bone structure, and overall health. To understand what results you can expect, please consult with a qualified aesthetic plastic surgeon.