WHAT IS BUCCAL FAT?

The buccal fat pads are the anatomical fat structure that supports facial aesthetics, facilitates facial movement, and creates cheek fullness. The buccal fat, otherwise known as Bichat’s fat pad, is an important aesthetic feature in facial aging of the face. By removing fat pads from the buccal region, the face’s cheek projection and overall sculpted contour are improved, helping achieve a desired facial shape.

The buccal fat consists of a rounded biconvex fatty structure contained by a thin capsule. There are three lobes in the middle third of the cheek area. The buccal fat is fat pads found on the lower cheekbones. The fat pads are located below the forehead, below your lower cheeks, and reach your jawline.

It is responsible for fullness and swelling in the cheeks, and most noticeable in babies, which helps sucking functions. The size of the buccal fat reduces as the child grows.

The fullness of the cheeks, roundness, or chubby look often causes frustration with the facial lack of contour.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal

BUCCAL FAT CAUSES FACIAL FULLNESS

The buccal fat pads can cause facial fullness or fuller cheeks. Buccal fat removal may be considered for any age group and can be done with other facial procedures, such as a facelift. Weight gain or loss may affect the size of the buccal fat pad, which can vary from the size of a marble to the size of a golf ball.

The buccal fat can descend for some people, adding to the jowl. The plastic surgeon needs to identify the herniated fat pad for removal to achieve a nice jawline with a facelift. If it is not removed, the jowl will only be partially corrected.

For many people, especially young adults, the full cheeks remain from childhood, and reduction may be indicated. Other people are overweight or have a genetic component to this facial feature. These are all reasons for buccal fat reduction surgery.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL SURGERY?

An ideal candidate for buccal fat removal in the San Francisco Bay Area has prominent zygomatic or cheekbones obscured by pronounced cheekbones. Such patients tend to lack an angular face shape. Removing the buccal fat pads will make their cheeks appear less full and their cheekbones more prominent.

Buccal fat removal is not indicated in cases of malar hypoplasia or a flat cheekbone. In these patients, removing buccal fat pads will lead to hollow cheeks. In addition, due to possible complications, it is crucial to understand that the buccal fat removal procedure is not a substitute for augmentation of the malar area.

ABOUT BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL

Many patients dislike their “baby face” or “chipmunk cheeks” and prefer a more defined appearance. The overly full buccal pat pads often cause the issue caused by a person’s genetic makeup, diet or weight gain. Buccal fat pad removal is a surgical technique to remove part of the buccal fat pads and slim down the cheeks. As a result, patients may experience a more chiseled and sculpted facial contour.

BENEFITS OF BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL

Buccal fat removal offers several benefits for individuals seeking a more defined facial appearance. Some advantages of this procedure include:

Improved facial definition: By removing excess fat from the buccal fat pads, the procedure can create a more defined jawline and facial contours, enhancing your facial structure.
Reduced cheek fullness: Buccal fat removal can significantly reduce the appearance of cheek puffiness, resulting in a slimmer and more youthful look.
Enhanced facial harmony: The procedure helps balance facial features, creating a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Long-lasting results: The results of buccal fat removal are long-lasting, making it worthwhile for those seeking a more defined facial appearance.
Customizable: The amount of fat removed can be tailored to each individual’s needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized result that aligns with your aesthetic goals.

Can a person inherit enlarged cheek fat?

Yes, a person can inherit fuller cheeks from their parents. A buccal fat pad excision can solve this problem. Removing nearly all the buccal fat pads creates a more contoured appearance.Cheek reduction surgery in San Francisco is usually done inside the mouth. It can be done from the outside during a SMAS facelift. Still, Dr. Miguel Delgado, M.D., one of the San Francisco Bay Area Plastic Surgeons, prefers the inside of the mouth because it is riskier on the outside due to the many facial muscles and facial nerves used in the area.

BUCCAL FAT SURGICAL STEPS

REDUCTION OF THE CHEEK

Buccal fat pad excision aims to thin the cheeks, particularly in the hollows of the cheeks.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS INVOLVED IN BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL?

This is a simple 3 step procedure to rid round cheeks with a small incision site on the inside of the cheeks.

STEP 1 – ANESTHESIA

Medications are administered during the procedure to ensure your comfort. Anesthesia for plastic surgery options includes local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, and general anesthesia. The local injections work well if buccal fat removal is the only surgery performed. It is similar to going to your physician or dentist, but less painful in most cases. If the buccal fat removal surgery is performed with other procedures, like a facelift, it is usually performed under general anesthesia.

STEP 2 – INCISION

A one-centimeter incision is made at the inner portion of the cheek. The tissue is spread apart to expose the fat pad. The buccal fat pads usually have several lobes teased out of the incision. The base of the fat is cauterized to control bleeding.

It is possible to remove the buccal fat pad during the cosmetic procedure of a facelift, without making an incision inside the mouth.

STEP 3 – CLOSURE OF THE INCISIONS

Sutures are used to close the small incision inside the mouth. A qualified plastic surgeon usually uses absorbable sutures, but each doctor performs the procedure differently. Ensure to play with your sutures only after your surgeon gives you the OK. You should be on a liquid diet or soft foods for 24 hours during healing. Light pain pills and antibiotics are often prescribed.

STEP 4 – RESULTS

You will achieve a slimmer, more contoured cheek after your buccal fat removal surgery, specifically in the cheek hollow area.

PREPARING FOR THE PROCEDURE

To ensure a smooth and successful buccal fat removal procedure, it’s essential to prepare properly. Here are some steps to take:

Consult with a qualified surgeon: Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and determine if buccal fat removal is right for you. This is a crucial step to ensure you have realistic expectations and understand the procedure.
Stop smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. It’s recommended to quit smoking at least two weeks before the procedure to promote better healing.
Avoid certain medications: Inform your surgeon about any medications you’re taking, including blood thinners, and follow their advice on which medications to avoid before the surgery.
Plan for recovery: Arrange someone to drive you home after the procedure, and have a friend or family member assist with daily activities during the recovery period. This support can be invaluable in the initial days post-surgery.
Follow pre-operative instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific instructions to follow before the procedure. Be sure to adhere carefully to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.

RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries some risks and side effects. These may include:

Bleeding and hematoma: As with any surgery, there is a risk of bleeding and hematoma (a collection of blood outside the blood vessels). Your surgeon will take steps to minimize this risk.
Infection: Infection is a risk with any surgical procedure. Your surgeon will administer antibiotics and provide care instructions to reduce this risk.
Facial asymmetry: There is a risk of facial asymmetry, where the fat pads are not removed evenly. This can affect the balance of your facial features.
Nerve damage: There is a risk of nerve damage, which can lead to numbness, tingling, or facial weakness. This is why choosing an experienced surgeon is crucial.
Scarring: The incision sites may leave scars, which can be permanent. However, these are typically well-hidden inside the mouth.

It’s essential to discuss these risks and side effects with your surgeon, and carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks before undergoing buccal fat removal surgery. This informed approach will help you make the best decision for your aesthetic goals and overall health.

CALL TODAY!

If you are considering facial and body plastic surgery rejuvenation in San Francisco, Santa Rosa (Sonoma County), or Napa Valley, call now (415) 898-4161 for a consultation with Dr. Delgado, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and facelift specialist practicing in San Francisco Bay Area and Marin County.

Places of interest for travel patients in San Francisco

San Francisco’s distinct flavor and charm are reflected in its several buildings of great historical importance, including the San Francisco Opera House, the home of the San Francisco Opera and other performing arts since 1932. During World War II, San Francisco served as a major port for naval service members shipping to the Pacific Theater in the Pacific Ocean.

The Opera House was also the site of the first assembly of the United Nations in 1945. It was created in a classical Roman Doric style to commemorate those who served in World War I, hence its title, the War Memorial Opera House. It’s located across from the San Francisco City Hall, just one and a half miles from the practice of Dr. Miguel Delgado and 27 miles from Dr. Delgado’s Novato office in Marin County.

Other places to visit include the Golden Gate Bridge, Treasure Island, Golden Gate Park, North Beach, the Mission District and Pacific Heights.

FAQ’S

IS THE BUCCAL FAT HARD TO FIND?

With less experienced plastic surgeons, the buccal fat is commonly missed leaving the surgeon and the patient with unsatisfactory results. It takes an expert cosmetic plastic surgeon to look for the possibility of the descended buccal fat.

HOW LONG DOES BUCCAL FAT PAD REMOVAL LAST?

This is a permanent solution for this facial fat. It should not return and may reduce more over time as you age. This is the reason not to be overly aggressive.

IS BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL SURGERY PAINFUL?

No, this procedure is not painful. The discomfort is less than going to the dentist in most cases.

CAN BUCCAL FAT PADS BE REMOVED NATURALLY?

A person can naturally lose fat and weight, and sometimes it will affect the buccal fat. In some cases, when a person drops the weight down to a certain point, the facial fat resolves, and a quant appearance may occur. This is often due to the weight loss due to buccal fat volume.

WHY DO PEOPLE REMOVE THE BUCCAL FAT PAD?

Chubby cheeks or a full round face are a look that some people do not find attractive. Removal of this facial fat will create a more angular or sculpted appearance and improve facial aesthetics. This will also enhance and bring to life the cheekbones.

CAN YOU REMOVE BUCCAL FAT WITHOUT SURGERY?

No, removing buccal fat can not be removed without surgery. However, loss of body fat can sometimes reduce facial fat, and if you gain weight, it may increase fat in the buccal space. Facial plastic surgery or plastic reconstructive surgery is the easiest way to rid the fullness of buccal fat.

What is the cost of buccal fat removal?

The cost of buccal fat removal is $2500-$3500. This is the surgical fee only. The cheek reduction surgery is often performed under local anesthesia, which reduces the cost of the surgical facility. This is commonly $500-$1000.

Does buccal fat removal slim your face?

Yes, this is the primary purpose, and why buccal fat removed has become so popular. It creates a more angular face and cheek-line.

Buccal Fat Removal in San Francisco & Marin County, CA