BUCCAL
FAT PAD
REMOVAL
The goal of buccal fat removal is to thin the cheeks, specifically in the area of the cheek hollows. Although a face that is naturally soft and filled out is considered youthful, some people find that their face feels too full, even chubby.
A buccal fat removal removes the buccal fat pad, a naturally-occurring pad of fat in the cheek hollow area. The size of the buccal fat pad varies with each individual patient, and the buccal fat pad in each cheek may be different sizes. Buccal fat pad extraction surgery is typically not performed in people with thin, narrow faces as removal of the fat may cause the face to look more gaunt with age.
WHAT
Buccal
Fat Pad
Removal
ANESTHESIA
Local or
Sedation
DOWNTIME
DOWNTIME
<1 week
COST RANGE
$3,000
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL?
Good candidates for buccal fat pad removal generally include individuals who have one or more of the following aesthetic concerns:
-
fullness in the lower cheeks
-
"chipmunk" appearance to cheeks
-
desire to have more "contoured" look to cheeks
HOW IS BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL PERFORMED?
Buccal fat pad removal is performed in the office under local anesthesia or with sedation if preferred. Small incisions are made on the inside of the cheek to access the buccal fat pad. Dr. Gerecci removes just the right amount of fat to lead to a more contoured appearance of the cheeks. Dissolvable stitches are then used to close the incisions. This is an outpatient procedure and patients can go home the same day.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL SURGERY
The week after the surgery, Dr. Gerecci will see you in-clinic and check all incisions and go over all wound care measures. You may experience swelling, tightness in the lips/mouth/cheek area, and temporary numbness or weakness in the lower face. Swelling is expected; you should continue use of cool compresses and keep the head elevated.
ARE THERE NON-SURGICAL ALTERNATIVES TO BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL?
There are no non-surgical treatments that can achieve the quality and longevity of rejuvenation buccal fat pad removal is able to accomplish. That said, for individuals who are not quite ready for surgery and/or do not mind returning for continual touch-up visits, minimally invasive options like dermal filler to improve upper cheek contour or along the jawline to improve lower face definition can help diminish signs of fullness in the lower cheek region.
SCHEDULE YOUR BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL CONSULTATION TODAY
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation for your buccal fat pad removal with Dr. Gerecci. She can let you know if buccal fat pad removal is the right choice for you and can recommend additional or alternative procedures and treatments to help you reach your goals.