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Buccal Fat Removal is also known as cheek reduction surgery. For those who want to achieve a more hollowed and chiseled look, buccal fat removal is the answer.
‘Chipmunk cheeks’ or chubby cheeks can occur due to being overweight or genetics. The fat that makes the cheeks lumpy is known as buccal fat or fat pads.
Before the surgeon creates an incision, a local anaesthesia will be administered to prevent pain while the patient is awake. A small incision will be made from the cheek to the gums, starting above the second upper molar going to the back of the mouth. The fibres and the fascia of the main cheek muscle will then be exposed. In order for the buccal fat to stick out, the surgeon will apply some pressure externally below the cheekbone. After this, the surgeon will tease the fat out using either surgical tweezers or forceps. After removing the necessary fat pads, the incision will then be closed.
Risks & Complications
These are rare and often only temporary, however, they may include:
- Infection
- Adverse anaesthetic reactions
- Numbness, which may be long term or permanent
- Loss of sensation on the central cheeks and jawline or anywhere where the incision was made
Q. Who are the best candidates for a buccal fat surgery?
- Men and women with the age of 18 and above
- Physically healthy
- Non-smoker
- Realistic with the objectives of the surgery
Q. How long does the procedure last?
A. It usually takes about 1 hour to complete the procedure.
Q. How does it feel like after the buccal fat surgery?
A. The lower part of the face and mouth will be sore and tender. There will be bruising but only in the inside of the mouth causing a difficulty in chewing. After about 2 weeks, the swelling will dissipate.
Q. What are the post-op measures to take?
- Avoid foods that have acids
- The head should be elevated when sleeping
- The mouth should be rinsed with an antiseptic mouthwash a couple of times each day
- Apply an ice pack to the swelling every 10 minutes for the first few days
Q. When do I see results after the buccal fat surgery?
A. Final results will be seen in about 4 months after the surgery.
Q. Is the result permanent?
A. Yes.
Q. Is the procedure painful?
A. There is mild to moderate pain and discomfort but these will be temporary and can be lessened with the doctor’s prescription.