Buccal Fat Removal
In recent years, buccal fat removal surgery has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgery trends in Hollywood, but what exactly is it?
Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves the removal of buccal fat pads from the cheeks to create a slimmer, more contoured facial appearance.
What is Buccal Fat?
Before looking at how buccal fat removal works, it helps to first understand what buccal fat is. Buccal fat is a type of fat located in the lower part of the cheeks, between the facial muscles, and just beneath the skin.
Also known as the buccal fat pad, it is made up of specialised fat cells that are different from other types of fat in the body and helps to give the face a rounded, plump, appearance.
Whilst buccal fat can contribute to a youthful and rounded appearance of the face, it can also make the cheeks appear too full or chubby in some people. For those seeking a more sculpted facial appearance, buccal fat removal surgery can be an option to selectively remove some of the fat in this area.
How is Buccal Fat Removal Performed?
The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia and involves making small incisions inside the mouth to access the buccal fat pads.
Your surgeon will then carefully remove a portion of the fat pads before closing the incisions with sutures. The entire procedure usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes and can be done on an outpatient basis.
Recovery time is typically minimal, with patients being able to resume normal activities within a few days. However, swelling and bruising can last for up to two weeks, and patients are advised to avoid hard or chewy foods and to rinse their mouth with a special mouthwash for a few days after the surgery to aid in healing.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Safe?
Buccal fat removal is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon.
Like any surgery, it does carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, nerve damage, scarring, asymmetry, and unsatisfactory results. However, serious complications are rare, and most patients experience a smooth recovery with few side effects.
It’s important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, discuss any concerns with a qualified surgeon, and follow all pre-and post-operative instructions to minimize the risk of complications.
It’s also important to note that buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure and is not recommended for everyone. It’s best suited for patients who have excess buccal fat that is contributing to a “chubby” or “round” appearance of the cheeks and who have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure.
A thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon is necessary to determine if buccal fat removal is a good option for you.
For more information on buccal fat removal, or to book a consultation, contact Specialists in Plastic Surgery.
