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Buccal Fat Removal: Cost, Procedure, Risks, Recovery And All About The Surgery
Image Credit: Canva
SummaryBuccal fat removal, a cosmetic surgery, slims the cheeks by removing fat pads. Learn about the procedure, recovery, risks, and costs for a well-informed decision on achieving a defined facial contour.
Buccal fat removal is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in recent times, as it promises its patients a sculpted appearance, removing the round appearance of a face that patients feel is too full. According to societal beauty standards, this surgery has increasingly become popular because people want the sharp, angular features. Therefore, what exactly does the procedure entail and who is it best suited for? Here is an in-depth guide to buccal fat removal, its benefits, risks, and considerations.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
Buccal fat is the natural layer of fat located between the cheekbones and the jawline. This fat contributes to the overall fullness of the face and plays a vital role in shaping one's facial structure. While fuller cheeks are often associated with youthfulness, some individuals feel their cheeks appear overly chubby or rounded, even at a healthy weight.
It also differs between people, influenced by genetics, body composition, and age. The procedure provides a solution to those who want a more slender appearance of the face by removing a part of the buccal fat that contributes to hollow cheek definition. It is mostly requested by individuals who want to shed the "baby face" for a more angular and mature look.
Buccal Fat Removal: Step-by-Step Guide
Buccal fat removal is a surgical cosmetic procedure carried out by a board-certified plastic surgeon. The procedure involves:
1. Anesthesia
The surgery is conducted either under local, intravenous, or general anesthesia based on the patient's request and the surgeon's recommendations.
2. Incision
A small incision is made within the mouth, inside each cheek's inner portion to make sure there are no marks seen on the face.
3. Fat Removal
A precise amount of fat is removed from each cheek to avoid creating a hollow or gaunt appearance.
4. Closure
The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, minimizing discomfort during recovery.
The surgery usually takes less than an hour, and patients are allowed to go home the same day. The results? A slimmer, contoured face with enhanced cheek definition.
Recovery and Expected Results
Recovery from buccal fat removal is relatively quick, and most patients resume normal activities in two to three weeks. Here's what to expect post-surgery:
Swelling and Bruising: Mild swelling and bruising are common but usually subside within a week or two.
Dietary Adjustments: Patients are usually advised to follow a liquid diet for several days to avoid irritating the surgical site.
Oral Care: The surgeon might prescribe special mouth rinses to reduce the risk of infection and facilitate healing.
Post-operative care is very essential, and it is advised to follow up with the surgeon strictly to achieve perfect results. Results are evident when the swelling has entirely subsided, which generally takes a few months.
Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal
This procedure isn't for everyone. It's most suitable for individuals who:
- Are physically healthy and maintain a stable weight.
- Have realistic expectations about the results.
- Are non-smokers.
- Feel self-conscious about the appearance of round or full cheeks.
Patients with naturally thin or narrow faces are generally discouraged from undergoing buccal fat removal, as the procedure may result in a hollow or aged appearance over time, especially as facial fat naturally diminishes with age.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries potential risks, including:
- Infection: Managed with proper care and medication.
- Facial Asymmetry: Difference in fat pad size may be present in the cheeks and, therefore, the outcome will not be even.
- Nerve Damage: There is a small chance of damage to facial nerves resulting in temporary or permanent numbness.
- Overcorrection: The face might appear gaunt if too much fat is removed.
Going to a qualified and experienced surgeon reduces the above risks drastically.
Cost of Buccal Fat Removal
For those hesitant to undergo surgery, nonsurgical options can help reduce facial fullness:
- Procedures like injectable fillers or fat-dissolving treatments can offer subtle contouring effects.
- A balanced diet and regular exercise can naturally reduce overall body fat, including in the face.
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy skincare routine can enhance facial definition.
Nonsurgical Methods of Reducing Cheek Fullness
For those who do not wish to undergo surgery, nonsurgical procedures can help alleviate fullness in the face, including injectable fillers and fat-dissolving treatments, which can subtly effect contours. A balanced diet and regular exercise naturally reduce body fat, of which the face is included. Hydration and healthy skin care also help define one's face.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal is an extremely individualized procedure intended to improve facial harmony and enhance self-esteem. Still, it is important to have realistic expectations and make this decision for yourself, not because of societal pressure or external influence.
A board-certified plastic surgeon can be a member of American Society of Plastic Surgeons for your peace of mind. Here, you can be doubly assured that your health safety and satisfaction will be held paramount.
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