The aesthetic ideal of high, sculpted cheekbones can seem unattainable if you have fullness or roundness in your lower face. This “chubby-cheeked” appearance comes from stubborn fat pads in your cheeks that can be larger in some people than others. Buccal fat removal addresses these fat pads for a slimmer, more chiseled look with one quick procedure.
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal may be the most common plastic surgery procedure that people remain unaware of. Everyone has buccal fat pads, which are located in your lower cheeks below the cheekbone. In some people, they add undesirable fullness and make the cheeks and jaw look less defined.
Buccal fat removal is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that removes these fat pads, usually using local anesthesia. However, the area around the fat pads contains important nerves and other structures, so the procedure requires an experienced surgeon, like Dr. Wael Kouli, who focuses on your safety.
Am I a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Because cheek fat removal typically uses local anesthesia, almost anyone can safely undergo this minor procedure. Candidates should have realistic expectations about the results they will see, although buccal fat removal has a very high satisfaction rate.
Buccal fat removal is not an ideal solution for everyone’s needs. Individuals should be at a reasonable weight to see their best results. The anatomy of your cheekbones may mean that this procedure does not produce the results you want. Dr. Kouli will assess these factors and many others during your consultation.
How Does Cheek Fat Removal Work?
Before your procedure, the area will be numbed with local anesthetic. Dr. Kouli makes small incisions inside your cheeks and uses them to remove the buccal fat pads. Unlike subcutaneous fat that distributes under the skin, fat pads are a separate structure that can be pulled out. Dissolvable sutures close the incisions, and you can usually drive yourself home afterward.
REQUEST CONSULTATION
This is the time you get to know and become comfortable with Dr. Kouli and the staff at Esthetica of San Diego, the Center of Cosmetic Surgery. You should express your needs, desires, and expectations for your procedure. Dr. Kouli will review your medical history and discuss the best surgical technique for you. All your questions will be answered as thoroughly as possible.
As Dr. Kouli always says, “no question is a stupid one.” You will have a detailed discussion about the different techniques of surgery. Dr. Kouli will go over most risks and potential complications of surgery and will explain the pre-operative and post-operative process.
What is Recovery Like After Buccal Fat Removal?
Swelling and soreness usually occur after cheek fat removal. We will instruct you on how to apply ice to minimize these effects. You will be limited to a diet of liquid or very soft foods for about a week while your incisions heal.
Swelling will improve significantly within the first week or two, although it can last longer. The sutures dissolve after about two weeks. We will provide instructions on when you can resume various activities, and most people can return to work when they feel comfortable.
How Long Does Buccal Fat Removal Last?
The buccal fat pads will not grow back after removal, so your sculpted results can last a lifetime. However, people who experience a weight increase may see more fullness in the lower face due to other fat cells. Buccal fat removal, along with maintaining a consistent weight, will provide long-lasting improvements.
I can’t say enough about Dr. Kouli. He looked at my problem which was pretty bad and immediately knew that he could fix it.
Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more about buccal fat removal? Dr. Wael Kouli and his team proudly serve Orange County, Newport Beach, San Diego, and the surrounding area. Reach out today at (858) 530-8400 to begin your journey!
