For many people, unwanted facial fat is a constant aesthetic struggle with no easy solutions. As a person gains weight, fat often gathers in the face, giving it a fuller, rounder look. However, a rounder face can also be the result of genetics, rather than lifestyle. For those looking to slim down their cheeks and get rid of their “baby face” in New Jersey, the buccal fat removal procedure is available at Schrader Plastic Surgery.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
The middle part of your cheeks has a pad of fat that contributes to the shape of your face. This bit of 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 fat in their faces despite dieting and working out. This is where buccal fat removal can help.
Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that reduces the amount of fat padding in your cheeks. By doing so, your cheeks can achieve a more angular look based on the contours of the muscle and bone underneath. The procedure is often performed along with other types of plastic surgery in order to maximize results.
About the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
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 an experienced and competent 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.
Benefits of the Buccal Fat Removal
The greatest benefit of buccal fat removal 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 proportions you desire.
Another benefit of this procedure is that it can easily be combined with other types of plastic surgery to maximize results.
Good Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal
Good candidates for buccal fat removal are men and women who have overly round faces and are in good health. It is preferable that you are 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 surgeon will inform you of all associated risks which are generally smaller than other invasive procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal
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.
For those looking to combine procedures for a greater overall aesthetic result, buccal fat removal can be combined with other surgeries. A rhinoplasty to reshape your nose can offer a drastic improvement in your appearance when performed with a buccal fat reduction. Chin implants, Botox injections, and lip augmentation are also compatible with buccal fat removal.
If you would like to sculpt your face in more than just the cheek area, consult your doctor about how you can achieve your goals through multiple procedures.
Complete recovery from buccal fat removal 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.
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.
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.
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 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.