What Is Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat, also known as buccal fat pad, is a type of fat located in the cheeks. It is found on either side of the face, just below the cheekbones, and helps to give the face its shape and volume.

Why Some People Have More Buccal Fat Than Others

The size and prominence of the buccal fat pad varies from individual to individual. Genetics contribute in determining the face’s overall structure, including the amount of buccal fat present. Inherited tendencies towards a rounder or fuller face are often related to the size of your buccal fat pads.

Buccal fat is also somewhat independent of body weight fluctuations. However, significant weight changes can sometimes influence its prominence. 

Ageing might also play a role. As facial skin loses elasticity and volume shifts, the buccal fat pad may become more noticeable even if it hasn’t changed in size.

How Buccal Fat Removal Works

 Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the size of the buccal fat pads. 

While some people may choose to undergo this procedure for aesthetic reasons, it is important to note that it is not suitable for everyone and should only be considered after a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced Plastic Surgeon (always check for FRACS credentials).

Potential Risks And Complications

Buccal fat removal is not without its risks and potential complications. These can include infection, bleeding, swelling, and asymmetry, and it is important to choose a qualified and experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon who can minimise these risks and provide the best possible outcome.

In addition, it is also important to have realistic expectations about the results of buccal fat removal. Factors such as age, skin elasticity, and overall facial structure can all play a role in the outcome of the procedure, and it is important to discuss these with your surgeon before making a decision.

What To Expect In A Buccal Fat Removal Surgery

Though buccal fat removal is relatively quick, understanding what happens during the process is crucial. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Before Surgery

• Medication planning: Fill any prescriptions provided by your surgeon in advance and have them ready. Let them know of existing medications you’re taking.
  
• Shopping trip: Pick up essentials like a small toothbrush, pain reliever, and over-the-counter mouthwash.
  
• The night before: Avoid food and drinks past midnight. Take prescription medications, if any, with tiny sips of water.
  
• Getting ready: Shower, but skip lotion, cosmetics, hair products, deodorant, and sunscreen. Remove piercings and jewellery. Wear comfy, loose clothing with button/zip closures.
  
  

During Surgery

Your surgeon will likely use local anaesthesia and sedation. However, the surgery can also be performed under general anaesthesia. Your surgeon will determine the most ideal option, given your background and preferences.

The surgeon will then create small, discreet incisions inside your mouth to minimise any visible scarring. Using specialised tools, they will carefully expose the buccal fat pad within your cheek.

Following the details discussed during the consultation, your surgeon will then remove a predetermined amount of fat. Finally, they close the incisions with dissolvable sutures for easy healing.

After Surgery

Anticipate some swelling and potential bruising in the days following your buccal fat removal. Focus on rest and gentle movements throughout the day. 

Sleep with your head elevated on 2-3 pillows for the first week or two. Make sure to maintain good oral health and hygiene by rinsing with diluted mouthwash several times a day. But, you’ll want to avoid brushing your teeth for the first 48 hours post-surgery.

Your surgeon may also ask you to avoid taking NSAIDs as these medications may increase the risk of bleeding. Try to relax and do not aggravate the incision site by opening your mouth wider than an inch. 

Finally, avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or bending for the first week. Resume light exercise after 2-3 weeks (or depending on your surgeon’s instructions), understanding that swelling might temporarily increase with activity.

Buccal Fat Has Functional Uses

While there’s a growing trend in social media on removal of buccal fat for aesthetic purposes, it’s important to remember that it has its own functional roles in the body.

• Support for infants: In infants and young children, the buccal fat pad is proportionally larger because it needs to support the suckling action which is crucial for nourishment.
• Gliding function: Throughout life, the buccal fat pad assists in the gliding motion of various facial muscles required for chewing, swallowing, and showing facial expressions.
• Cushioning: The buccal fat pad also protects individuals with sensitive facial structures, which help absorb impact from external sources.

Buccal fat serves structural and functional purposes within the face. The decision to remove it for aesthetic reasons needs careful consideration on an individual basis. 

Consult with a Certified Plastic Surgeon

Overall, buccal fat is an important and often overlooked aspect of facial anatomy. While buccal fat removal may be a viable option for some who wish to reduce the apperance of the buccal fat pad, it is important to approach the procedure with caution and to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who can provide the best possible outcome. For more information on buccal fat removal, you can consult with Dr. Jack Zoumaras at Artiste Plastic Surgery in Sydney. Dr. Zoumaras is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who can provide a thorough and transparent discussion about the procedure, including potential risks and considerations.

Book your consultation with Dr Jack Zoumaras.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All plastic surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Recovery varies between 1-4 weeks. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons. More information on our website. 

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.