All You Need to Know About Buccal Fat

Everyone has buccal fat in their face. It is the fat located between your cheek and jaw bones. The size of your buccal fat can change the shape of your face. Those with larger buccal fat pads often have a rounder face. Buccal fat removal involves the removal of fat which can make your face look slimmer. The procedure is often referred to as a “cheek reduction.” Below you will find all you need to know about buccal fat and if removal is right for you.

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure that can enhance the look of your face and bone structure. It is great for those who are unhappy with their fuller, rounder face shape. If diet and exercise seem incapable of getting your face into your ideal slimmer contour, then this procedure may be an option for you.

What is Buccal Fat?

Buccal fat pads are located in the middle of your cheeks, between your cheek and jaw bones. It is between your facial muscles in the hollow area of your cheeks. Buccal fat pads can be of different shapes and sizes. Those with larger buccal fat pads have a rounder-looking face, while those with smaller ones have a more defined facial structure. Buccal fat pads can be removed to reveal a slimmer and more defined-looking facial structure. This procedure continues to become more and more popular, as it helps patients with naturally-rounder faces finally achieve a slimmer contour.

Does Everyone Have Buccal Fat?

Yes, everyone has buccal fat pads that develop along with the rest of their facial tissues and structures. Some people have bigger or smaller pads than others, and that’s why the face shape can vary from person to person. Some individuals may have almost no fat in the pad, resulting in a naturally narrower facial profile. But other patients may have larger pads, which can be highly resistant to diet or exercise. In many cases, a patient may find that no amount of weight loss will actually bring down the roundness of their face. When this happens, it can be possible to see if you are a candidate for a buccal fat pad removal procedure.

Is the Procedure Safe?

Buccal fat removal is generally a safe and effective procedure, but only when done by a qualified surgeon with years of experience. Dr. Gabbay continues to be a leading plastic surgeon in the Los Angeles area, and has performed numerous procedures over the years to help countless patients achieve their best appearance possible. He approaches every procedure with the care and attention needed to deliver optimal results while keeping the patient safe.

Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat pad removal can provide effective results for those who are good candidates. Not everyone is a good candidate, so it’s important to schedule a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon in Los Angeles. Candidates should be unhappy with the fullness in their cheeks, have maintained a stable weight, and be in good health overall. Those with a narrow face, or who are older, may not be good candidates for the procedure. Discussing your expectations with the surgeon at your consultation can ensure that you choose a procedure that is best for your personal aesthetic goals.

We work closely with each patient to determine if removing buccal fat will bring out their best. Dr. Gabbay takes the time to learn about your goals and fully examine your facial structure to match you with the best option for achieving the aesthetic you want.

Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

Buccal fat removal is a straightforward and fast procedure. It can be performed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia. This will be discussed at your consultation so you will be prepared on the day of the procedure. The procedure involves a small incision on the inside of your cheek. This exposes the buccal fat pad so it can be easily removed. Once the buccal fat is removed, the incision is closed with dissolvable sutures.

The procedure takes just 30 minutes if done alone. If you are getting multiple procedures at the same time, the procedure may take longer. Additionally, the type of anesthesia and approach to surgery may differ. Patients often combine cosmetic procedures to maximize their results. You will notice the results immediately, but they will continue to improve in the days and weeks after the procedure. It can take a few months to see your final results.

Recovery Process After Buccal Fat Removal

The recovery process after buccal fat removal is smooth and fairly fast as compared to other cosmetic procedures. You may experience some swelling, numbness, and soreness right after the procedure. This is completely normal and should subside within just a few weeks maximum Because the incision is located in your mouth, you need to maintain a liquid diet for the first two days after the procedure. You will also need to use a special mouth rinse to reduce your risk for infection and promote healing. As you begin to heal you can introduce soft foods into your diet.

The healing process takes around three weeks, but you should be back to your daily routine within a week. It’s important to consider that the recovery process is slightly different for those who get multiple procedures at the same time. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions post-surgery and it is important to follow their recommendations. Additionally, you should attend all of your follow-up appointments to ensure optimal progress.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you are considering buccal fat removal in Los Angeles, it is important to find a qualified surgeon to discuss your goals. At Gabbay Plastic Surgery, we understand how important it is to have a surgeon you trust and feel comfortable with. We are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care and results. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gabbay to learn more about this procedure and discuss the best options for you.