What is Buccal Fat Removal?

The right amount of fat helps give your face volume, shape, and youthful contours. However, one place many people prefer not to have so much facial fat is in the lower cheeks. The pad of fat in the lower part of your cheeks can make your face look round and plump. If you want more defined cheekbones and a slimmer-looking face, buccal fat removal might be the ideal way to achieve your goals. 

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

If you look at your cheeks in a mirror, you will notice that you have two areas of fullness. The malar fat pads, which are located on the upper part of the cheeks, give them shape and definition. Below these, the buccal fat pads give your lower face fullness and roundness, a look not everyone wants. 

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that removes these fat pads to sculpt your lower face. This procedure uses incisions inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars, and can dramatically slim and shape your features. Removing buccal fat can give you a more tapered lower face and remove the appearance of undesirable plumpness. 

*Individual Results May Vary

How Does Buccal Fat Removal Work?

Dr. Rankin performs buccal fat removal using local or general anesthesia, depending on your preferences and comfort. Small incisions inside your cheeks are used to extract the buccal fat pads, then closed with sutures that dissolve after a few days. This procedure is often performed alone but can be performed with almost any other procedure to achieve your desired facial contours. 

What is Recovery Like After Buccal Fat Removal?

After your procedure, you will need to use a special mouthwash to keep the area clean. You will also remain on a liquid diet for the first few days while the incisions heal. Fortunately, the inside of the mouth heals quickly, and you can return to most of your usual activities in about three days. You can resume strenuous activities after a few weeks following Dr. Rankin’s approval. 

How Long Does Buccal Fat Removal Last?

The buccal fat pads will never grow back after being removed. However, you have other fat cells in the lower face that can become larger if you gain a significant amount of weight. The best way to maintain your new facial contours is to lead a generally healthy lifestyle. In general, buccal fat removal will provide a lifetime of more sculpted cheeks and a slimmer lower face. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

While many types of facial plastic surgery are performed to address signs of aging, many people who choose buccal fat removal are younger adults who have always had full cheeks and are ready to do something about it. Candidates should be in good health and have reasonable expectations. Only a consultation can determine whether buccal fat removal is the best way to achieve your goals. 

Next Step

If you are interested in buccal fat removal, please reach out to our qualified staff to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations in Walnut Creek and Tiburon. Give us a call at (925) 397-5486 or fill out our online form. Helping you achieve your cosmetic goals is an honor and a privilege at NorCal Plastic Surgery, proudly serving the East Bay, Marin County, and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. We look forward to hearing from you.