A sharper, more sculpted facial structure tends to carry an association with youthful beauty due to the perception of a more balanced facial structure. Buccal Fat Removal has now risen in popularity as a cosmetic surgery procedure to help people, with fuller or rounder cheeks, achieve a more sculpted facial appearance. The removal of fat pads on the cheeks helps to enhance the definition of cheeks with an aim to retain a natural appearance. Each cosmetic surgery has its pros and cons. It is important to weigh these cons and pros when surveying surgery. Consulting to the Plastic Surgeon in Delhi can help you decide, if this surgery is right for you.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal, also known as bichectomy, is a cosmetic surgery that reduces the size of the buccal fat pads located within the cheeks. These fat pads contribute to the natural fullness of the mid and lower face.
During the procedure, a small incision is made inside the mouth. The surgeon carefully accesses the buccal fat pad and removes an appropriate amount based on the patient’s facial structure and aesthetic goals. Because the incision is inside the mouth, there is generally no visible external facial scar.
The goal is not to remove as much fat as possible. A conservative approach is important to maintain facial balance and avoid an excessively hollow appearance.
How Does Buccal Fat Removal Work?
The procedure generally involves several steps:
- Consultation: The surgeon evaluates facial structure, cheek fullness, skin quality and overall health.
- Treatment planning: The amount of fat to be removed is determined according to individual anatomy.
- Anaesthesia: Local or another appropriate form of anaesthesia may be used depending on the treatment plan.
- Intraoral incision: A small incision is made inside the cheek.
- Fat removal: The surgeon carefully accesses and removes the planned amount of buccal fat.
- Closure: The incision is closed, usually with appropriate sutures.
The exact technique and anaesthesia can vary between patients.
Buccal Fat Removal vs. Facial Liposuction
Buccal fat removal and facial liposuction are different procedures used to address different types and locations of facial fullness. Buccal fat removal targets the deeper buccal fat pads inside the cheeks, while facial liposuction is generally used to reduce superficial fat in areas such as the chin, jawline or neck.
The right option depends on the cause of facial fullness, facial anatomy and the patient’s aesthetic goals. During a consultation, a qualified plastic surgeon can assess the treatment area and recommend the most appropriate approach.
Key differences include:
- Buccal fat removal: Targets the buccal fat pads inside the cheeks.
- Facial liposuction: Usually targets superficial fat beneath the skin.
- Treatment area: The procedures may address different parts of the face.
- Results: Both can improve facial definition, but the expected contouring effect differs.
- Suitability: Not every patient with a round or full face is suitable for either procedure.
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Pros of Buccal Fat Removal
1. More Sculpted Cheekbones and Jawlines
An advantage of Buccal Fat Removal is that with less cheek fat, the jawline and cheekbones more clearly define.
2. End Result is Permanent
Since Buccal Fat Removal is a fat cell removal procedure, the end result of this cosmetic contouring procedure remains permanent. The contouring effect will remain as long as weight is kept at a healthy level.
3. No Scarring on Face
Because the procedure is performed entirely inside the mouth, there is no scarring externally on the face. This is a major perk of the surgical procedure for clients looking for subtle improvements.
4. Short Recovery Time
Patients are normally able to return to their daily routines after a couple of days. However, the healing process may take weeks and the final contours to the face will take time to be seen after the swelling slowly reducing.
5. Customizable Procedure
With the skill of a Plastic Surgeon in Gujranwala Town, the correct and appropriate amount of fat is removed to achieve naturally balanced results based on the anatomy of the patient’s face.
Cons of Buccal Fat Removal
1. Permanent Fat Removal
Removal of fat is permanent and poses both an advantage and a disadvantage. Because fat is removed permanently, if too much is removed, the face may become too hollow with no natural fat to fill it.
2. Aging Effects
When we age, we lose fat in our face. Patients who remove a lot of fat when they are younger will lose facial volume and will typically have sunken cheeks as they age.
3. Results Take Time
Although the surgery itself is quick, the final results are not visible right away. The complete outcome may take anywhere from three to six months to develop as swelling is present for many weeks.
What Are the Risks of Buccal Fat Removal?
Like any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal has potential risks and complications.
These may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Facial asymmetry
- Over-removal of fat
- Under-correction
- Numbness or altered sensation
- Injury to nearby nerves
- Injury to the parotid duct
- Prolonged healing
- An overly hollow facial appearance
Who Is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal may be considered by adults who have naturally fuller cheeks and want a more defined facial contour.
A suitable candidate generally has:
- Persistent cheek fullness despite maintaining a stable weight
- Realistic expectations about the outcome
- Good general health
- Adequate facial volume
- No active oral infection
- A clear understanding of the permanent nature of fat removal
Not everyone with a round face needs buccal fat removal. Facial fullness can also be influenced by genetics, overall body weight, bone structure, skin quality and other facial fat compartments.
A consultation with a qualified Plastic Surgeon in Delhi can help determine whether the procedure is appropriate.
Buccal Fat Removal vs. Bichectomy
Buccal fat removal and bichectomy generally refer to the same type of procedure involving removal of part of the buccal fat pad.
The terminology can vary between clinics and regions, but the underlying objective is facial contouring through reduction of buccal fat.
Recovery after Buccal Fat Removal
The recovery process goes smoothly if the patient follows the post-operative instructions.
The usual recovery process consists of the following:
- Swelling for a week or two
- A soft or liquid diet for multiple days.
- Mouth rinses to prevent infection
- No strenuous physical activity for a while.
Right Surgeon Selection is Important
A surgeon’s skill is a huge determining factor for effective Buccal fat removal. The success of surgery looks heavily on the surgeon’s precision skill as well as their appreciation and knowledge of the anatomy of the facial structures.
While choosing the Plastic Surgeon in Delhi, check the following:
- If they are Board Certified and they have Advanced specialty training
- They have experience doing facial surgeries
- Results of their previous patients were good
- They have a clear and simple consultation process
- They have a good and clear plan
- Patients had good reviews and if they had good safety records
While choosing a good Plastic Surgeon in Gujranwala Town, you can avoid the risk of unprofessional practice and poor quality outcome.
When Will You See the Final Results?
The face may look swollen or uneven during the initial recovery period. The contour gradually becomes more defined as postoperative swelling subsides.
The final appearance can take several weeks or longer to become fully apparent. Your surgeon can provide a more personalised estimate based on the technique used and your individual healing process.
Does Buccal Fat Removal Age Your Face?
Buccal fat removal may have long-term effects on facial appearance because the removed fat does not simply grow back. Facial volume naturally changes with age, and excessive removal of buccal fat may contribute to a more hollow appearance as the face loses volume over time.
For this reason, the goal should not be to remove as much cheek fat as possible. A qualified plastic surgeon should consider the patient’s current facial proportions, existing volume, skin quality, age and potential future changes before recommending the procedure.
Factors that can influence the long-term appearance include:
- Natural facial aging
- Loss of facial fat with age
- Changes in body weight
- Skin elasticity
- Amount of buccal fat removed
- Individual facial anatomy
A conservative and personalised approach can help maintain facial balance while achieving the desired contour.
Final Thoughts
Buccal fat pad removal helps you achieve a defined facial contour with a leaner facial appearance. The results are permanent and your confidence is bound to increase due to the improved appearance, especially since the scars are virtually undetectable. The risks and complications, along with the recovery time and effects, should not be taken lightly. The Best Cosmetic Surgeon in south Delhi and experienced Plastic Surgeons in Gujranwala Town offer safe, natural and customized results to help you accomplish your goals in the field of facial aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal
Is buccal fat removal permanent?
The removed buccal fat does not simply grow back, although aging and weight changes can alter facial appearance over time.
How long does buccal fat removal take?
The procedure is generally relatively short, but the exact duration depends on the treatment plan and whether other procedures are performed.
Is buccal fat removal painful?
Some discomfort is expected after surgery and can usually be managed according to the medication and postoperative instructions provided by the surgeon.
How long does swelling last after buccal fat removal?
Swelling gradually decreases during recovery, although the time required varies between patients.
When can I return to work after buccal fat removal?
Many patients return to routine activities within several days, depending on their healing and the physical demands of their work.
Can I eat normally after buccal fat removal?
Patients are commonly advised to start with softer foods and gradually return to their normal diet according to their surgeon’s instructions.
Does buccal fat removal leave scars?
The incision is made inside the mouth, so there is generally no visible external facial scar.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Gautam Chaudhury
MBBS • MS (General Surgery) • M.CH (Plastic Surgery)
16 yrs in practice
IAPS member
Delhi-based practice
