Buccal fat refers to the fat deposits in the lower cheeks, which are part of a larger network of fat pads that shape the face. The amount and distribution of facial fat vary from person to person, influenced by genetics. Interestingly, buccal fat pads are typically larger in children, contributing to their characteristic chubby cheeks. As we age, these fat pads tend to remain stable until older adulthood, when they gradually shrink. Consequently, weight loss may not significantly impact buccal fat. While buccal fat is a normal and healthy part of our facial anatomy, surgical removal, also known as buccal fat removal surgery or cheek reduction, is an option for those who wish to reduce the size of their buccal fat pads.
Buccal fat removal is a plastic surgery procedure, also known as cheek reduction surgery, designed to refine and enhance the facial shape and contour.
Before undergoing buccal fat removal surgery, you will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this meeting, you will discuss your motivations for the surgery and your desired outcomes. The surgeon will examine your face, take photographs, and inquire about your medical history, medications, and overall health. They will then explain the surgical procedure, recovery process, and provide guidance on how to prepare, which may include quitting smoking to minimize complications and optimize results.
To prepare for buccal fat removal surgery, your surgeon will administer a local anesthetic, similar to those used in dental procedures. A small incision will be made on the inside of your cheek, near the upper molars, allowing the surgeon to carefully remove the buccal fat pads. The incision will then be closed with stitches, and you will be discharged with medication and mouthwash to prevent oral infection. Your doctor will also provide personalized instructions on post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery.
Following buccal fat removal surgery, it’s common to experience facial swelling and discoloration, which typically resolve within a couple of weeks. The full effects of the surgery may take a few months to become apparent, but over time, you can expect to notice more slender, well-defined cheeks. To ensure a smooth recovery, it’s essential to carefully follow your surgeon’s instructions, which may include specific guidelines for post-operative care.
When considering buccal fat removal, it’s crucial to exercise caution, especially for younger individuals. This is because the natural aging process involves a decrease in buccal fat, leading to changes in facial shape. Overly aggressive removal of buccal fat can result in saggy or deflated cheeks in the future. Therefore, a conservative approach is recommended. It’s essential to remember that additional buccal fat can be removed later if desired, but it cannot be replaced once removed.
Buccal fat removal surgery is considered a permanent procedure, as it eliminates fat cells that do not regenerate. However, while the removed fat cells do not grow back, the remaining fat cells can still expand if you gain weight, potentially affecting the long-term outcome of the surgery.
The average cost of buccal fat removal surgery is approximately 90000-130000 Rs, excluding additional expenses such as anesthesia, hospital fees, pain medications, and medical testing. When budgeting for the procedure, consider the costs of the surgeon’s fees, hospital or clinic fees, anesthesia, medications, and testing, which can vary depending on location and the surgeon’s experience. As buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by health insurance; however, some plastic surgeons offer payment plans to help make the procedure more affordable.
If you’re looking to slim down your cheeks, you have alternatives to buccal fat removal. Cheek liposuction, which involves using a thin tube to remove fat from the cheeks, is one option. Another is a facelift, which can reposition or remove excess fat and sagging skin in the cheek area. Your doctor can help determine the best procedure for your individual needs. Notably, buccal fat removal may not yield dramatic results on its own, and your surgeon might recommend complementary procedures, such as cheek augmentation or chin liposuction, to enhance your new facial contours. If you’re overweight, losing weight can help reduce overall facial fat, but it won’t specifically target the buccal fat pads. If you’re at a healthy weight and want to slim down the buccal area, surgery may be a more effective option.
Buccal fat is a natural occurrence, consisting of fat pockets in the lower cheeks. For those seeking to reduce this fat, buccal fat removal surgery, also known as a cheek reduction, is a viable option. This procedure can help accentuate the facial bones and create a narrower, more defined face shape. However, it’s essential to carefully consider your motivations and whether surgery is the best choice for you before making a decision.
During buccal fat removal surgery, a local anesthetic is administered, allowing you to remain awake and pain-free throughout the procedure. Following the surgery, you may experience temporary side effects, including bruising, swelling, and numbness, which will resolve over time.