Buccal Fat Removal
While high upper cheekbones are a sign of a youthful and attractive face, lower cheeks are often too full. If this sounds like you, you may be able to benefit from buccal fat removal for a slimmer, more proportionate facial appearance. The goal of buccal fat removal is to thin the lower 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, especially in the lower third. As a double board-certified plastic facial surgeon, you can count on Dr. Walker to provide you with the beautiful, natural-looking results you desire. Our office is conveniently located 12 minutes from Brookhaven and 16 minutes from Buckhead.
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal eliminates a portion of the buccal fat pad, which is a pad of fat that naturally occurs in the cheek hollow area. The size of the buccal fat pad is different for each individual, and the fat pad in each cheek may vary in size as well. This procedure can help to balance out the lower third of your face, as well as accentuate your cheekbones for a more refined look. Buccal fat pad removal is typically performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, so you can return to your busy routine fairly quickly.
Who is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
If you are unhappy with the appearance of full or chubby cheeks, you may benefit from this customized procedure to reduce the fullness in your lower cheeks and accentuate your cheekbones. In general, individuals who are physically healthy, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure are good candidates. A buccal fat removal is not often performed for people who have narrow, thin faces, as the face can appear gaunter with age. A consultation with Dr. Walker is the best way to determine if this procedure is right for you.
You may be a good buccal fat removal candidate if:
- You are physically healthy and at a stable weight.
- You have realistic expectations.
- You are a non-smoker.
- You are bothered by the appearance of your chubby lower cheeks.
- You have a round face desiring more definition.
- You have never lost the chunky cheeks from childhood.
- You are seeking more chiseled facial features.
How is the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure Done?
Buccal fat removal is usually performed under local anesthesia with or without IV sedation in the office. However, it may also be performed under general anesthesia in the operating room if the client prefers especially when performed in conjunction with other procedures necessitating deep sedation. An incision will be created inside your mouth on the inner portion of the cheeks. No external incisions are made, so there will be no external scarring. Once Dr. Walker removed the proper amount of fat from each side, which may be different on the two sides, incisions are closed with absorbable sutures that dissolve within 7-10 days. Buccal fat removal surgery usually takes one hour to complete.
Buccal Fat Removal Recovery
Following your procedure, you may be instructed to follow a liquid diet for several days. You may also be given special mouth rinses to reduce the risk of infection. Swelling and discomfort in the lower cheeks are to be expected and may feel similar to recovery after wisdom tooth removal. The swelling will subside during the following weeks. Be sure to follow Dr. Walker’s specific recovery instructions to ensure that your incisions heal properly. Once the swelling subsides, you will be able to enjoy your slimmer, more contoured cheek appearance.
Schedule Your Consultation
Are you interested in learning more about buccal fat removal? If so, contact our Atlanta office today to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Walker. This appointment is the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals.
