Looking to accentuate your cheekbones or slim down your facial contour? Buccal fat removal or sculpting surgery is a popular procedure designed to tone the facial profile and redefine your natural beauty. After performing thousands of buccal fat removal procedures, Dr. Chernoff’s experience sets his approach apart, so keep reading to learn everything you need to know about buccal fat removal – plus how you can take the next step toward your treatment goals.
What is Buccal Fat Sculpting?
Buccal fat removal, also known as buccal lipectomy or cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to slim the lower part of the face by removing the buccal fat pads. These fat pads are located in the hollow areas of the cheeks and can contribute to a rounder, fuller facial appearance. By surgically removing these pads, the face gains a more contoured and sculpted look.
The procedure is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, and involves making a small incision inside the mouth to access and extract the fat pads.
Recovery time is relatively quick, with most patients returning to their regular activities within a few days, although it may take several weeks for the final results to become fully apparent as swelling decreases and the face adjusts to its new shape.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Sculpting Surgery
Minimally Invasive
One of the key advantages of buccal fat removal is its minimally invasive nature. During the procedure, Dr. Chernoff makes a small incision inside your mouth to prevent visible scarring.
This internal approach minimizes the risk of infection and speeds up the healing process, making it a safe and appealing option and allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a significant facial transformation without the worry of noticeable scar formation.
Quick Recovery
You can expect a relatively quick recovery from buccal fat removal, and this procedure will even allow you to return to your normal activities within a few days. Most swelling and bruising subside within the first week, and the final results become more apparent over several weeks as your face adjusts to its new contours.
This swift recovery makes buccal fat removal a convenient choice for your busy lifestyle, enabling you to see significant improvements without the extensive downtime of other, more invasive procedures.
Facial Slimming
Buccal fat removal offers an effective way for you to achieve a slimmer, more contoured facial appearance. By removing the buccal fat pads in your lower cheeks, you can significantly reduce facial roundness and enhance your cheekbone definition.
This procedure gives you a more sculpted and aesthetically pleasing facial profile which is perfect for patients who feel their face appears too full or chubby.
Option to Combine Procedures
Combining buccal fat removal with other facial procedures can significantly enhance your results, providing a more defined and youthful appearance. Dr. Chernoff often integrates buccal fat sculpting with other procedures such as a Deep Plane Face & Neck Lift, Submental Liposuction, or Ellevate to achieve a comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
This synergistic approach not only slims the lower cheeks but also lifts and tightens sagging skin, smooths out wrinkles, and enhances the jawline and neck contour.
For some patients, Dr. Chernoff will remove the majority of the buccal fat based on their specific anatomy, bone structure, and aesthetic goals. For other patients, he may sculpt the buccal fat to provide facial harmony and balance.
Additionally, Dr. Chernoff’s innovative techniques allow for minimally invasive methods that reduce recovery time and maximize outcomes. By addressing multiple areas simultaneously, you can enjoy a balanced and harmonious facial profile with long-lasting and natural-looking results.
How Buccal Fat Removal Works
Consultation
Buccal fat removal involves a straightforward yet precise surgical procedure aimed at enhancing your facial contours. The process begins with a consultation where you and Dr. Chernoff discuss your aesthetic goals to determine if buccal fat removal suits your needs. Once you decide to proceed, the surgery is performed at an AAAHC-accredited surgery center under light general anesthesia.
Surgery
During the surgery, Dr. Chernoff makes a small, inconspicuous incision inside your mouth near your upper molars to prevent visible scarring. Through this incision, he will carefully access and remove the buccal fat pads in the hollows of your cheeks. The amount of fat removed depends on your unique facial structure and the desired outcome.
The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether you’ve chosen to get the procedure alone or in combination with other facial surgeries. After removing the fat pads, Dr. Chernoff closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures, which eliminates the need for a follow-up visit to remove stitches.
Post-Op
Post-surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which are normal and should subside within a few days. Dr. Chernoff will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you manage these symptoms and promote a smooth recovery.
Most patients can resume their normal activities within a week, although it’s essential to follow Dr. Chernoff’s advice on physical activity and diet during the recovery period to reach key recovery goals.
Final Results
As your face heals, you will notice a gradual improvement in your facial contours, with the final results becoming more apparent over several weeks. Buccal fat removal not only slims your face but also enhances your natural features, giving you a more sculpted and defined appearance.
FAQs About Buccal Fat Removal
Am I a good candidate for buccal fat removal?
You are a good candidate if you have excess fullness in your lower cheeks and desire a more sculpted facial profile. It’s essential to be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results.
How much does buccal fat removal cost?
Performed on its own, buccal fat removal is an affordable procedure. The exact cost of your operation, however, depends on your desired results, as well as your choice to combine it with other procedures.
Natural Beauty, Redefined
When you choose Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery, you choose an experienced and artistic provider. Opting for buccal fat removal, combination procedures, or other facial enhancements is the best way to achieve the look of your dreams, so call our office in Santa Rosa to redefine your natural beauty today!