Some people naturally have fuller cheeks even when they are otherwise slim. If the lower cheeks appear particularly rounded, this can sometimes make the face look less defined.
Buccal fat removal, also known as Buccal Lipectomy or cheek reduction surgery, can reduce a selected amount of deep cheek fat to create a more defined facial contour.
At FaceSurgeon, the decision to remove buccal fat is made carefully because facial volume naturally changes with age. The aim is to improve definition without making the face look unnecessarily hollow.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
The buccal fat pad is a naturally occurring pocket of fat located deep inside the cheek.
During buccal fat removal, a controlled amount of this fat is removed through a small incision inside the mouth. Reducing this fullness may make the cheeks appear slimmer and can bring more definition to the overall facial contour.
It is important to understand that the procedure does not involve removing all facial fat. The amount removed depends on your individual facial structure.
Who May Be Suitable?
Buccal fat removal may be considered if you have:
- Noticeable fullness in the lower cheeks
- A naturally round facial appearance
- Good overall facial volume
- A desire for more cheek definition
- Realistic expectations about the result
However, fuller cheeks do not automatically mean that buccal fat removal is appropriate. Your age, facial structure, existing cheek volume, and long-term appearance all need to be considered.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is performed through a small incision inside the mouth. The surgeon accesses the buccal fat pad and removes a carefully selected amount.
The amount of fat removed is different for each person. A conservative approach is generally preferred because facial volume can change naturally over time.
Since the incision is inside the mouth, there is generally no visible external scar.
Why Is Conservative Removal Important?
This is one of the most important considerations with buccal fat removal.
The face naturally loses some volume as we age. If too much buccal fat is removed, the face may appear overly hollow or gaunt later in life.
For this reason, the decision is based on more than how full the cheeks look today. Factors such as facial shape, cheekbone structure, age, existing volume, and long-term changes are considered.
The goal is appropriate contouring, not maximum fat removal.
How Long Does Buccal Fat Removal Take?
Buccal fat removal generally takes around 30–45 minutes, although the duration can vary depending on the individual case and whether another procedure is performed at the same time.
Your surgeon can provide more specific information after assessing your facial structure.
Recovery After Buccal Fat Removal
Some swelling and discomfort are expected after the procedure. Because the incision is inside the mouth, eating can be uncomfortable during the first few days.
You may be advised to eat softer foods temporarily and follow specific oral hygiene instructions.
The face can look swollen initially, so the final contour should not be judged immediately after surgery. As the swelling settles, the changes in facial definition become easier to appreciate.
Possible Risks
Potential risks may include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Temporary discomfort
- Asymmetry
- Delayed healing
- Excessive facial hollowing
A proper consultation is important to determine whether the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks in your case.
Buccal Fat Removal at FaceSurgeon
FaceSurgeon takes a conservative approach to facial contouring, with attention to both present appearance and future facial volume changes.
Dr. Shreya Krishna, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, assesses facial proportions and cheek volume before deciding whether buccal fat removal is appropriate.
The treatment plan is based on your individual anatomy rather than removing a standard amount of fat from every patient.
FAQs
Will buccal fat removal make my face slimmer?
For suitable candidates, reducing buccal fat can decrease fullness in the lower cheeks and make the face appear more defined.
Is the fat removed permanently?
The portion of buccal fat that is removed does not simply return in the same way. However, your facial appearance can still change with ageing, weight changes, and natural changes in facial volume.
Can too much buccal fat be removed?
Yes. Removing too much can potentially create an overly hollow appearance, particularly as natural facial volume decreases with age.
Is there a visible scar?
The incision is generally made inside the mouth, so there is usually no visible external facial scar.
How long does the procedure take?
Buccal fat removal generally takes around 30–45 minutes, although this can vary from case to case.
Is buccal fat removal right for me?
That depends on your facial structure, cheek volume, age, expectations, and other individual factors. An in-person assessment is important before deciding on treatment.