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Buccal Fat Removal in Princeton, NJ

Buccal Fat Removal in Princeton, NJ

Contributes to the

shape of your face

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For many people, unwanted facial fat is a constant aesthetic struggle with no easy solutions. After weight gain, fat often gathers in the face, giving it a fuller, rounder look and a more youthful appearance. However, a rounder face can also be the result of genetics, rather than lifestyle. For those looking to slim down their “chipmunk cheeks” and get rid of their “baby face” in New Jersey, the buccal fat removal surgery is available at Schrader Plastic Surgery.

Table of Contents
  1. What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
  2. About the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
  3. Benefits of the Buccal Fat Removal
  4. Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal
  5. Safety of the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
  6. Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

The middle part of your cheeks has a pad of fat that contributes to the shape of your face and your overall facial structure. This bit of cheek fat varies between people. While some may have a thin layer that contributes to chiseled cheeks, others will have more generous padding.

Some people may have a thin physique overall but have a rounder face due to larger buccal fat pads. People with larger-than-average fat pads in the cheeks typically find it difficult to lose the desired amount of cheek fat in their faces despite dieting and working out. This is where buccal fat removal can help.

Buccal fat pad removal is a surgical procedure that reduces the amount of fat padding in your cheeks. By doing so, chubby cheeks can achieve a more angular look based on the contours of the muscle and bone underneath. This cosmetic procedure is often performed along with other popular procedures in order to maximize results and facial rejuvenation achieved.

About the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

Face of a woman where lines depict the facial contour after a Buccal Fat Removal
There are no visible scars to worry about.

The procedure is as straightforward as it sounds. Your surgeon begins by providing you with the necessary anesthesia. Typically, only local anesthesia is needed for this quick and simple procedure. An incision is then made in each cheek, inside of your mouth. This means that there are no visible scars to worry about.

The doctor then removes the buccal fat pads and closes the incision. In the hands of a competent and experienced surgeon, the procedure is very safe and discomfort is minimal. Complications are rare and your doctor will help you overcome them quickly if any arise.

Nicole is the consummate professional. She offered excellent advice and solutions —while listening to my needs. Would definitely recommend her services to friends and family. Her team of staff are friendly and approachable —very important when you are visiting a specialist for a procedure! Thank you Dr. Schrader and team!

  • Star full Star full Star full Star full Star full 5 stars
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Benefits of the Buccal Fat Removal

The greatest benefit of cheek reduction surgery is that it allows you to quickly achieve excellent aesthetic results and fat reduction in a spot that would otherwise be nearly impossible to target with diet and exercise. You can slim your face down by reducing your body fat but only to a certain degree. The buccal fat removal procedure allows you to sculpt your cheeks and achieve the facial features and proportions you desire.

Another benefit of this procedure is that it can easily be combined with other types of plastic surgery to maximize results.

Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal

Before and after image of a Cheek Reduction
Your doctor will tell you what you can expect from the procedure.

Good candidates for buccal fat removal are men and women who have overly round faces and are in good health. The surgeon will review your medical history and have a detailed consultation with you to discuss your individualized treatment plan and aftercare instructions, but it is preferable that you are already at a healthy weight and do not smoke.

Slimming down your face with buccal fat removal should come with realistic expectations. If you have a full, round face, the results will be more dramatic than if you only have a small amount of cheek fullness. Depending on the size of your buccal fat pads, your doctor will tell you what you can expect from the procedure.

Safety of the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential side effects that may occur after buccal fat removal. Buccal fat removal is a safe procedure overall.

Bleeding, infection, and fluid accumulation may occur as a result of the procedure. Your surgeon will monitor your progress to ensure that you are healing properly after the surgery. Your facial plastic surgeon will inform you of all associated risks which are generally smaller than other invasive procedures since this procedure propose minimal strain to the facial tissue.

Before and after image of a Buccal Fat Removal procedure
Buccal fat pad removal is a surgical procedure that reduces the amount of fat padding in your cheeks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal

How long until the results from the procedure are visible?

The procedure removes the fat pads in your cheeks, meaning that your face will appear thinner right away. If there is any swelling, the final results will be evident as soon as it subsides. Keep in mind that the full improvement in your face will likely be visible at around the four to six-week mark post-surgery.

Which procedures can buccal fat removal be combined with?

For those looking to combine procedures for a greater overall aesthetic result, buccal fat removal can be combined with other cosmetic surgeries. A rhinoplasty to reshape your nose can offer a drastic improvement in your facial appearance when performed with a buccal fat reduction. Chin implants, Botox injections, and lip augmentation are also compatible with cheek reduction surgery. If you would like to sculpt your face in more than just the cheek area, consult your doctor about how you can achieve your aesthetic goals through multiple procedures.

What does recovery from buccal fat removal surgery involve?

The complete recovery process for buccal fat removal patients takes approximately three weeks. Your surgeon will give you a regimen to follow for a full recovery. The doctor will provide you with a special mouthwash that will help you stay infection-free. You’ll also be given instructions on how to care for the incision. A liquid diet is necessary for the first couple of days. Your doctor will tell you how to transition to solid foods gradually. This will involve moving to soft foods before returning to your normal diet.

How soon can I resume my daily activities?

Your surgeon will advise you to stay away from strenuous activities for the first few days. All in all, transitioning back into your daily routine won’t take too long. Following your doctor’s directives will ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Can buccal fat accumulate again over time?

While those who get liposuction may find that their love handles return, you’ll be happy to know that buccal fat does not accumulate again with time. It is a permanent solution for creating a more angular face.

What buccal fat removal office is near me?

If you live in the state of New Jersey, Schrader Plastic Surgery offers buccal fat removal among its services. For a full list of services, please visit our Locations page.

About Schrader Plastic Surgery

Schrader Plastic Surgery offers buccal fat removal performed by experienced and skilled plastic surgeons. At our clinic, you can combine procedures to achieve the aesthetic result you desire. Located at 256 Bunn Drive in Princeton, NJ, we serve patients from all over the East Coast.

Booking a Consultation

To arrange a private consultation, you can fill out our contact form where you can include any questions you have. Our staff is prompt in replying to your inquiries.

If you would rather pick up the phone and give us a call to schedule a buccal fat removal consultation in Princeton, NJ, you can do so at 609-279-0009. We are always willing to dedicate the time to giving you the information you need to make the best decision for your appearance.

Why Choose Dr. Schrader

  • She is a double board certified surgeon in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology & Head/Neck Surgery.
  • Dr. Schrader is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • She has over 20 years of experience, 15+ years in private practice and has performed hundreds of facelift surgeries.
  • Dr. Schrader Recognized as Best Plastic Surgeon by Town Topics Readers’ Choice Awards.

Author

This article was written by Dr. Nicole Schrader. Last Modified May 9, 2025

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