Buccal fat removal fat removal is one of the latest developments in facial rejuvenation procedures, but does it truly live up to its hype? If you’ve heard anything about this procedure, you might be wondering just how it sculpts that contoured facial structure.
Buccal fat removal surgery removes the pad of fat just below the cheekbones to create a stronger jawline and contoured profile. This procedure reduces roundness and fullness of the cheeks for a more mature, defined look.
If you want to add structure to your face shape, buccal fat removal in Jacksonville at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates could be right for you. Keep reading our blog to learn more about this simple yet stunning facial procedure.
Or, if you’re ready to get started, visit our website to book your consultation with one of our triple board-certified surgeons.
What is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat is the pad of adipose fat between the cheekbones and jawbones that gives the face its shape. The functional purpose of this fat is to facilitate movement of the facial muscles.
Everyone has buccal fat, but the size and shape of these pads varies from person to person. The amount a person has is often dictated by age and genetics.
Those with more buccal fat generally have a rounder face shape, while those with less have a sharper profile and cheekbones.
Buccal Fat Removal Surgery
Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure that removes the pad of fat in the cheeks to create a defined facial structure. Also known as a cheek reduction, buccal fat removal accentuates the cheekbones and hollowed area between the cheeks and jawline.
Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?
Buccal fat removal is best for patients who want prominent cheekbones or want to change the appearance of their fuller cheeks.
Patients who are otherwise healthy and are at a stable weight are also good candidates for cosmetic procedures.
Buccal fat removal is not recommended for patients who already have a narrower face shape. Taking out too much buccal fat or removing it when there’s not much to begin with can cause a saggy, deflated look.
Additionally, we do not recommend buccal fat removal for older adults, as this fat naturally decreases with age.
The Buccal Fat Removal Process
Here’s what you can expect from the buccal fat removal surgery at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates:
The Consultation
Your buccal fat removal journey will begin with a comprehensive consultation with one of our triple board-certified surgeons.
Here, your physician will provide you with an in-depth explanation of the procedure’s mechanics. They’ll also explain what you need to do to prepare for your procedure and what you can expect throughout recovery.
During this consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to explain why you want to have the procedure done and how you’d like to look after. You will also have the chance to ask questions about buccal fat removal surgery and address any concerns you might have about the process.
Be sure to notify your surgeon of your previous medical conditions and any medications you’re taking that may complicate your procedure.
If you smoke, we may recommend quitting before your procedure for buccal fat removal in Jacksonville.
Smoking decreases the amount of oxygen that reaches the cells in the surgical wound. This can cause your incision to heal slower and leaves it susceptible to infection.
From there, you and your surgeon will create a procedure plan that is tailored to your desired outcomes. Your surgeon will also conduct a facial examination to determine how much buccal fat is necessary to remove to produce your desired results.
The Procedure
Before your procedure for buccal fat removal in Jacksonville, you’ll receive local anesthetic to minimize pain and discomfort. We will use general anesthesia if you are combining buccal fat removal with another facial procedure.
For surgery, your surgeon will make small incisions inside the mouth on both sides of the face to expose the buccal fat pads.
From there, all or a portion of the buccal fat pad will be cut and removed from the cheek. Once your desired amount of buccal fat is removed, your surgeon will suture the incision site closed.
The Recovery
The recovery period following buccal fat removal in Jacksonville generally lasts about 3 weeks. We recommend taking 2 to 4 days off of work for optimal recovery.
We also recommend having someone pick you up from your procedure and stay with you on the first night. This is to ensure that no serious complications arise.
We recommend keeping to a liquid diet for the first day or two after surgery. Eating regular solid foods immediately after surgery can cause discomfort and potentially disrupt or irritate the incision site.
Bruising and swelling in the days after your procedure are normal side effects of buccal fat removal. You may also experience soreness around the incisions in your mouth and numbness in the weeks following your procedure.
We recommend using over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs to reduce any pain you might be experiencing around the incision site.
FRequently Asked Questions
Here are some more details on buccal fat removal to inform your decision on the procedure:
Is buccal fat removal permanent?
Buccal fat removal is a permanent cosmetic procedure because buccal fat pads do not grow back.
It’s important to note that buccal fat removal does not prevent a fat increase in other areas of the face. Further weight gain may still cause fat cells in the face to grow, and water retention can also create the appearance of fullness.
Can buccal fat removal be combined with other procedures?
Yes! If you are interested in combining buccal fat removal with another procedure, we encourage you to notify your surgeon during your consultation. We can combine buccal fat removal with the following surgical and non-surgical procedures:
Facelift
A facelift reduces the appearance of sagging skin by pulling back and removing areas of excess tissue. Used in combination with buccal fat removal, we can create a comprehensive facial rejuvenation procedure.
Liposuction
Liposuction uses suction technology to remove excess fat from the neck, chin, jawline, and more. Pairing buccal fat removal with liposuction can result in enhanced fat removal and facial contouring.
Morpheus8
Morpheus8 delivers radiofrequency energy through insulated needles to stimulate collagen growth. Used alongside a buccal fat removal procedure, we can tighten the skin and create a more youthful appearance.
Brow Lift
A brow lift surgically repositions the forehead to reduce facial wrinkles and sagging skin in the upper face, such as forehead wrinkles and frown lines. Buccal fat removal can complement this procedure to create a more refreshed, youthful expression.
Chin Augmentation
By inserting a silicone implant into the chin, we enhance the lower face. Combining a chin augmentation with buccal fat removal can lead to an overall sharper profile.
Emface
For a noninvasive complement to buccal fat removal surgery, Emface uses a combination of high-intensity electromagnetic therapy and radiofrequency thermal energy to stimulate facial muscles and tighten the skin. Together, these procedures deliver enhanced facial contouring results.
How long does it take to see results?
It generally takes about 2 months to see the final results from your buccal fat removal in Jacksonville.
The swelling you experience may make it difficult to see results immediately after surgery. This swelling will begin to subside after a week of recovery from your procedure.
What are the side effects?
Notify your doctor immediately if you develop the following side effects:
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection at the incision site
- Injury to facial nerves that causes prolonged numbness or facial drooping
- Injury to salivary glands
- Asymmetry of the face
What is the cost of buccal fat removal?
Buccal fat removal in Jacksonville is an elective procedure, meaning most insurance companies will not cover the cost.
At Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates, we offer the following financing options to create the most affordable procedure experience possible:
- CareCredit – Choose between multiple payment plans to fit your budget without up-front costs or prepayment penalties.
- Cherry – Get pre-approved to pay regular installments without harming your credit score.
- PatientFi – Create a payment plan that revolves around your unique financial needs, looking beyond your credit score.
Why Choose Buccal Fat Removal at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates?
At Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates, we specialize in personalized cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. We approach all procedures with empathy and the highest standard of care to deliver ultimate satisfaction.
When it comes to buccal fat removal, we know that no two procedures are alike. We take the time to listen to your concerns and create a personalized plan to address your unique needs.
Our practice was founded on the core values of safety, education, and compassion. We accept nothing less than perfection, so you leave each visit feeling valued and understood.
To put it simply, we’re passionate about transforming lives. Our team of highly trained surgeons, nurses, and support staff is here to empower communities one step at a time.
Book Your Consultation
We’re here to bring your vision to life, whether that’s with a blepharoplasty, neck lift, or other procedure. If you want to create the sculpted profile of your dreams, buccal fat removal in Jacksonville could be right for you.
Learn more about this revolutionary facial contouring procedure by visiting our website or giving us a call.
