Buccal Fat Removal: What Makes a Successful Procedure
Buccal fat removal is a surgical practice in cosmetic surgery. It is very common around the globe but has recently made such a fuss especially with defined cheekbones being the it girl look of the era. With celebrities like Angelina Jolie and runway models charming the red carpet and media with their sculpted faces, having a sharp facial structure is growing in desirability.
So what is Buccal fat removal, and how does this procedure of facial contouring work? Is it for everybody? In the following article we’ll address every aspect regarding buccal fat removal.
What Is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat or Buccal fat pads are fat cells that reside in various areas around the body. But in this article we’ll exclusively discuss facial buccal fat pads that are slightly underneath the cheekbones.
Everyone has these buccal fat pads, but at varying sizes. While some have them large, others have them small. In fact, what most people don’t realise is that the buccal fat pads are signficant to your face shape. For instance, the larger your buccal fat pads are, the rounder your face will look. And the reverse is true.
There are also other types of facial buccal fat pads such as those found in the lower face. But again, our focus only on buccal fat removal for buccal fat pads underneath the cheekbones.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a small surgical procedure that removes the buccal fat pad in the face. The procedure aims to give the face a hollow look near the cheeks instead of the natural fullness. It goes by several names such as buccal lipectomy, bichectom, or cheek reduction surgery.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Right for Me?
Suitable candidates for buccal fat removal have to meet certain conditions. The first being that you must be in good health. The second thing you need to take note of, is that you have to be in good shape.
You can’t have the buccal fat removal if you are overweight or obese because the excess fat alters your face shape and the procedure of buccal fat removal may not be necessary if you lose enough weight.
In addition, your face must be round and full, naturally and not the direct effect of weight gain. And it goes without saying that you also must be displeased with roundness of your face and be mentally prepared for the changes the surgery will bring about.
Other factors that will affect how suitable you are for the procedure include:
– Medications – Expectations – Past surgeries – Medical conditions
Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
During consultation, your dentist will hear from you about your expectations and goals, and together they will take you through the ins and outs of the procedure.
The secret to a successful procedure is a doctor who can predict and envision how your facial structure will change with a buccal fat removal. Then comes the role of conducting the surgery, in which old hands in the field matter to achieve a beautiful smooth look.
The procedure is considered a micro surgery and typically, only requires the use of local anesthesia. If your prefer, your doctor may also use sedatives but that is completely optional. It is best to dicuss your sedation options with your doctor who will decide which approach is most suitable for you.
Your doctor will apply the anesthetic to your face, an aside from the prickle of the needle, you won’t feel any pain. Following this and once the anesthesia takes effect, your doctor will make a small incision inside your cheekbones.
Then, by pressing in on your outer cheeks, your doctor will try to expose the buccal fat pad. Once found, the next step is to cut the pad and remove it. As for the wound, your doctor will suture it with solvable stitches.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
After a buccal fat removal, you will find that your face will be both swollen and bruised. Both will fade within days. Your doctor will give you a series of aftercare instructions to help your recovery.
The number one focus will be hygiene and how to prevent the wound from infection. For this, you will have to use a special mouth wash and a few tips on how to care for the wound.
Because chewing may open the stitches, for the first 7 days following a buccal fat removal, you will have to stick to a diet of liquids only. Then, you’ll transition to a diet consisting of soft foods before finally being able to consume a normal diet.
Results of Buccal Fat Removal
The results of cheek reduction surgery are immediate. While you won’t be able to see them right away due to the bruising and swelling. But once that begins to fade, you’ll notice a big difference in the shape of your face.
Although, the final results of the procedure won’t peak until a few months later. In the meantime, you should expect the results to get gradually better over time.
How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?
The procedure can peak up to $5000 dollars minimum in both the US and the UK and don’t cover in consultation and use of hospital facilities. In Turkey, prices can range between $1,200 to $2,000 including luxury services, consultation, and use of hospital facilities.
The Takeaway
Buccal fat removal is a quick procedure that slims downs the face and gives it an edgier look. To achieve your aesthetic goals, your doctor will have to remove your buccal fat pads and suture the area.
The results are permanent granted you maintain your weight. While results are immediate you should note that they are not the final results.
Over time, your cheeks will adapt to the change and the results of the surgery will continue to improve. It goes without saying that aftercare is essential to the quality of your results. So, make sure you listen to your doctors tips and instructions for aftercare.
Contact Us
For any information about the procedure, please contact us. You can either book an online consultation by filling the form or contacting us directly via WhatsApp.
Our medical specially will get in touch with you ASAP to address your concerns. It is entirely free and you can discuss either the surgical procedure it self or the process of receiving treatment in Turkey.
