Face

BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL

While most people lose the baby fat in their face as they get older, some patients are troubled by the appearance of “chubby cheeks” after adulthood. Patients who have excess fat in the cheeks, called buccal fat, have rounder, more childlike cheeks. If you’re not happy with your round cheeks, a buccal fat removal procedure may be for you.

What is buccal fat removal?

A buccal fat removal procedure is performed to reduce and sculpt cheeks by removing persistent excess buccal fat. This condition is usually caused by genetics, although it can also come about due to obesity. If the cause is obesity, diet and exercise will resolve the concern. However, if the excess fat is hereditary, diet and exercise will not be effective.

A buccal fat removal surgery is done to reduce, thin and sculpt the cheeks by removing a portion of the fat stored in the cheeks, which defines the cheekbones and contours the jawline and face.

What are the benefits of buccal fat removal?

The buccal fat removal surgery provides many benefits, including the following:

  • Sculpts and defines the cheekbones
  • Achieves a more refined, sophisticated look
  • Provides an attractive facial contour
  • Minimizes lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth
  • Turns the clock back a number of years
  • Causes no visible scars
  • Short procedure that requires only local anesthesia

What should I expect during a buccal fat removal procedure?

Dr. Reuben will conduct a thorough consultation with you ahead of your procedure to examine your face, understand your aesthetic goals, and determine the surgical plan that will be best for you.

The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, and takes about an hour. Dr. Reuben will make an incision inside your cheek, which ensures no scarring will be visible. Pressure will be applied outside the cheek to expose the buccal fat pad. Dr. Reuben will carefully remove the fat to ensure the cheeks are sculpted without appearing hollow. Once the fat is removed, the wound will be closed with dissolvable stitches.

Recovery after buccal fat reduction

After your procedure, expect swelling and bruising for several days. During this time, you will need to follow a liquid diet. By 3-4 days after your surgery, you may begin to eat soft foods. From there, you may begin to slowly progress back to your usual diet.

Your complete recovery will take about three weeks, but your cheeks will need several months to fully settle into the slimmer, contoured shape as any remaining swelling subsides.

Am I a good candidate for a buccal fat reduction?

Men or women with excess, persistent buccal fat removal are likely candidates for buccal fat reduction. Ideal candidates meet the following requirements:

  • Are generally healthy
  • Do not smoke
  • Are close to their ideal weight
  • Feel they can maintain their weight
  • Have plump or chubby cheeks that persist after weight loss
  • Do not have a naturally thin facial structure

Why choose 22 for buccal fat removal?

Dr. Reuben and Dr. Moores are board-certified plastic surgeons whose attention to detail and extensive experience with facial procedures such as buccal fat removal provide their patients with outstanding outcomes. Each has a precise eye for aesthetics and symmetry, and are the ideal choice to achieve the sculpted, defined appearance you’re hoping for. 22 Plastic Surgery is a high-end, welcoming environment where patients can relax, knowing they are in the hands of the best of the best.

Our Locations

22 Plastic Surgery
6686 Highland Drive Ste 200
Cottonwood Heights,
UT 84121
Call Us: (801) 937-9650
Hours:
Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

22 Spa MD
6686 Highland Drive Ste 100
Cottonwood Heights,
UT 84121
Call Us: (801) 806-0222
Hours:
Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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