Buccal Fat Pad Removal 101

Buccal fat pad removal, which is also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed to lessen the appearance of fullness in the face. This change in the appearance of the face is accomplished by the removal of the buccal fat pad to reduce the look of cheeks that are prominent. Want to learn more about buccal fat pad removal and how it is performed? Take a look below for an in-depth look at the procedure from Cosmetic Town TV and then check out this informative article for even more buccal fat pad removal information.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal – How it is Performed

The buccal fat pad is a pocket of fat that is located in the posterior area of the cheeks. It is the area that is adjacent to where the molars are located in the mouth. This fat pad is what is responsible for the look of full cheeks that some people refer to as “chipmunk cheeks”. The surgeon makes a small incision that is located on the inside lining of the cheeks. The incision is then extended so it goes towards the gums and the main cheek muscle fibers are exposed. The doctor also applies external pressure below the cheekbone in order for the buccal fat pad to easily stick through the incision that was created. The designated portion of fat is removed and then the remaining fat pad is put back into place. The doctor then uses sutures to close the incision.

In general, the surgery takes less than an hour to perform and it is usually done on an outpatient basis.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal Candidates

Patients that want a more defined look to the cheeks are ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal. These patients have cheeks that are best described as chubby or puffy. They want cheeks that have a more chiseled look.

Ideal candidates also want a slimmer and contoured look to the face that eliminates the more youthful look that can come from having a face that is round and full.

Anyone that wants to have buccal fat pad removal should be in good health and maintain a stable weight. They should also have realistic expectations about the results that can be achieved by undergoing this cosmetic procedure.

The surgery is ideal for both men and women. Both genders can benefit from buccal fat pad removal in order to gain a more slender and contoured look to the cheeks.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal Recovery Process

Patients should know that they will have swollen cheeks after the surgery. However, the appearance of the swollen cheeks will decrease on its own over a period of several days.  Ice can be placed on the swollen cheeks to help reduce the swelling and make the patient more comfortable.

It will be necessary for the patient to follow a liquid diet for several days after the surgery in order to optimize the healing process after the treatment. Many patients also use rinses and antibiotics, recommended or prescribed by the surgeon, to reduce the risk of any type of infection after the procedure. Most patients can return to work within a few days but the recovery process varies per patient.

While there might be some immediate results, they might not be instantly visible thanks to the swelling experienced by the patient. Once the swelling starts to reduce on its own, the results will be more noticeable as the overall facial contour starts to look slimmer and gain a more sculpted look. It can take up to three months to see the final results. The final results that can be achieved depend on the amount of fat removed during the procedure.

It is important for the patient to maintain a stable weight after the surgery is performed. The results should be permanent unless the patient puts on some extra weight. If the gaining of extra weight happens, it could void the results and cause the cheeks to become chubby once again.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal Cost

The total cost of buccal fat pad removal depends on a number of factors and they include:

• Total amount of fat removed
• Experience level of the surgeon
• The area of the country where the procedure is performed
• Any fees charged by the doctor or the facility

In general, the cost of buccal fat pad removal is anywhere from $2000-$5500.

Schedule a Buccal Fat Pad Removal Consultation Appointment

Patients that are interested in undergoing buccal fat pad removal need to schedule a consultation appointment with a board-certified doctor that is experienced in performing the procedure. The surgeon will examine the current condition of the patient and make sure the person is an ideal candidate for the surgery. In addition, the doctor will let the patient know the type of results that can be expected from the treatment. Once the surgeon and the patient are in agreement about the surgery (including the expected results and the steps the patient needs to follow to maintain the results), the buccal fat pad removal surgery can be scheduled and performed.

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