Buccal fat removal or buccal lipectomy is all the rage. As more people want a chiseled, contoured face, this procedure is getting more and more attention. Furthermore, became a trending topic among celebrities or a question in beauty clinics, and the fascination with buccal fat removal shows no signs of slowing down.
But is it worth the hype? Explore the pros and cons, benefits, and risks of this popular cosmetic surgery. It is crucial to select a board-certified plastic surgeon for buccal fat removal to ensure the best results and patient safety.
Buccal Fat Removal Overview
What is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat is the fat pad in the lower part of the cheeks. These pads give the cheeks a fuller, rounder shape. Everyone has buccal fat, but the amount can vary and affect the overall shape of the cheek and face.
It supports the facial muscles and gives volume to the cheeks. Reducing buccal fat through buccal fat extraction can make the face look more defined, but too much fat grafting removed can look hollow.
What is Buccal Fat in the Face?
Buccal fat is thin, between the facial muscles and bones, mainly in the lower cheeks. For some, these thin fat pads can make you look round or chubby. However reduces this fullness and gives individuals a youthful appearance and a slimmer face, especially around the cheeks.
What Does Buccal Fat Look Like?
It looks like small soft pads of fat in the cheeks. Individuals having more buccal fat, the cheek area of their cheeks can look round even if they’re slim.
What Causes Excess Buccal Fat?
Excess buccal fat is genetic. Some people just carry more fat in this area regardless of their weight. Lifestyle factors like diet and weight fluctuations can also impact the size and structure of the fat pads in the buccal space.
What’s the Difference Between Buccal Fat and Jowls?
It is in the lower cheeks, jowls are below the jawline, and are caused by sagging skin and fat due to aging. Buccal fat removal targets the cheeks, jowl treatments usually involve lifting or tightening procedures.
Can Buccal Fat Go Away Naturally?
In some cases, buccal fat can go away naturally with age as the body loses facial fat over time. But the amount varies from person to person. Buccal fat reduction is a cosmetic procedure focused on reshaping the cheeks for aesthetic purposes.
Does Buccal Fat Change as We Age?
Indeed, it decreases appearance as we age. This is part of the natural aging process where the skin loses elasticity and the face looks more sunken over time.
At What Age Does Buccal Fat Start to Decrease?
Changes start to show up in the late 20s and early 30s. However, this can vary depending on genetics and lifestyle factors like diet and overall health.
According to a 2024 report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), facial fat decreases by 10% per decade starting from 25. This varies, especially in the buccal area which can thin out a lot in some people over time.
Buccal Fat Pads – Anatomy and Function
The buccal fat pad is a fascinating and complex anatomical structure nestled within the cheek. Extending from the zygomatic arch to the mandible, this bilobed structure consists of a larger anterior lobe and a smaller posterior lobe. Composed of loose connective tissue and adipose tissue, the buccal fat pad is encased in a fibrous capsule, providing it with a distinct form and function.
Functionally, the buccal fat pad plays several crucial roles. It provides cushioning and support to the cheek, acting as a shock absorber for the facial bones. This fat pad also helps regulate the temperature of the face, ensuring that the facial muscles and tissues function optimally.
Additionally, the buccal fat pad serves as a valuable source of fat for lipofilling and other cosmetic procedures, aiding in the repair of facial defects and injuries. Understanding the anatomy and function of the buccal fat pad is essential for appreciating the impact of buccal fat removal on facial aesthetics.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal Surgery
Buccal fat removal offers a range of benefits for those seeking a more defined and slimmer facial appearance. By reducing the fullness of the cheeks, this procedure can significantly enhance facial symmetry and contours. One of the primary advantages is the creation of a more youthful and refreshed look, as the reduction in cheek fat can make the face appear more sculpted and less chubby.
Moreover, buccal fat removal can improve the overall shape and definition of the face, making features like the cheekbones and jawline more prominent. The results of this procedure are long-lasting, as the buccal fat removal cost itself is physically removed, providing a permanent solution to facial fullness. For individuals looking for a more contoured and aesthetically pleasing facial profile, buccal fat removal can be a highly effective option.
Who is a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Ideal candidates for the buccal fat removal procedure are those who have a prominent cheek fat pad, often resulting in a “chipmunk cheek” appearance. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals with a rounded or full face shape who desire a more defined and slimmer look. Candidates should be in good overall health, both physically and mentally, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
Buccal fat removal is recommended for those seeking a long-lasting solution to reduce facial fullness and enhance their facial contours. Potential candidates need to consult with a qualified facial plastic surgeon to determine if this procedure aligns with their aesthetic goals and to discuss any potential risks and benefits.
Buccal Fat Removal – Natural Remedies
Can You Lose Buccal Fat Naturally?
While you can’t specifically target buccal fat with natural remedies, overall weight loss may reduce the size of your buccal fat pads. However, this is largely dependent on genetics and body composition.
How Can I Slim My Buccal Fat Naturally?
Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help slim down your face, though results may vary. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding salty foods, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also reduce facial puffiness, which may affect the appearance of your cheeks.
Can You Reduce Buccal Fat Without Surgery?
Though you can’t directly reduce buccal fat without surgery, various techniques, facial exercises, a healthy diet, and hydration may help slim down the appearance. Keep in mind that results from these methods are often subtle compared to surgical options.
Do Facial Exercises Reduce It?
Some claim that facial exercises can help tone the muscles and facial nerves and reduce facial fat. While these exercises may improve muscle tone, they have limited impact on buccal fat, as this fat is not as responsive to exercise as fat tissue in other areas of the body.
Does Weight Loss Affect Buccal Fat?
Yes, weight loss can affect the amount of buccal fat, but not always significantly. People who are genetically predisposed to having fuller cheeks may not notice a large reduction in buccal fat, even with weight loss.
What Are Natural Remedies to Reduce Cheek Fat?
Natural remedies include a balanced diet, facial exercises, staying hydrated, and using cold compresses to reduce puffiness. These methods won’t remove buccal fat, but they can help your face look slimmer.
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2024 revealed that while weight loss can lead to a 5% to 10% reduction in facial fat, buccal fat is often more resistant due to its genetic basis.
Buccal Fat Removal – Popularity and Trends
Why Is Buccal Fat Removal So Popular?
Buccal fat removal is popular because it offers a simple solution for individuals seeking a slimmer, more contoured face. With the rise of facial aesthetics in the media, many people are drawn to this treatment to enhance and achieve their desired facial shape and definition.
Cheek liposuction, on the other hand, involves the suction removal of excess fat from the cheeks to create a leaner appearance, making it important to consult a skilled surgeon to determine the most suitable procedure based on individual goals and facial anatomy.
Why Is Everyone Suddenly So Interested in Buccal Fat?
The obsession with buccal fat removal is thanks to social media and celebrity culture. As more and more celebrities share their post-op results the desire for a chiseled-defined face is spreading like wildfire.
What’s the Controversy with Buccal Fat Removal?
Critics say that buccal fat pad reduction and removal will leave you looking hollow as you age since facial buccal fat pad naturally decreases with time. Others worry that removing too much buccal fat pad reduction now will accelerate the aging process and leave you looking gaunt in the future.
Why Is It So Expensive?
Buccal fat removal is a specialized cosmetic procedure and is performed by top surgeons. The cost reflects the surgeon, the procedure, and the clinic location.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Trending in Specific Age Groups?
Buccal fat removal is most popular among 20-30-year-olds as this age group prioritizes facial aesthetics and is influenced by social media trends on Instagram and TikTok.
Why are Celebrities Getting Buccal Fat Removal?
Celebrities get buccal fat removal to have a more defined jawline and cheekbones which are desirable in the entertainment industry. It’s a permanent solution for facial slimming so it’s a no-brainer for those in the public eye.
How Has Social Media Influenced Buccal Fat Removal Trends?
Social media has been a major contributor to buccal fat removal. Influencers and celebrities sharing their “before” and “after” photos have created demand and made it more appealing to a younger crowd.
A 2024 survey by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) found that 70% of facial plastic surgeons reported an increase in buccal fat removal requests from patients 25-35 years old and social media was the reason.
Buccal Fat Pad Removal – Surgical Procedures
Is Buccal Fat Removal Worth It?
If you want a slimmer more contoured face buccal fat removal can give you long-term results. But you need to weigh the benefits against the risks and think about how facial fat loss over time will affect your look.
How Painful Is Buccal Fat Removal?
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, making it relatively painless. Patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling after buccal fat removal surgery, but the pain is usually minimal. It can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How Long Does Buccal Fat Removal Last?
The results of buccal fat pad removal are permanent since the fat pads are surgically removed. However, as you age, your face may naturally lose fat, which can alter the appearance of the results over time.
Can You Remove Buccal Fat Without Surgery?
Currently, buccal fat cannot be removed without surgery. Non-invasive treatments may slim the face, but they won’t target or eliminate buccal fat specifically.
How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost in the US?
The average cost of buccal fat removal in the US ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. The price can vary based on the surgeon’s experience, the clinic’s location, and the complexity of the procedure.
What Are the Risks Associated with Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
As with any surgery, buccal fat removal comes with risks, including infection, anesthesia, nerve damage, asymmetry, and excessive fat removal. It’s important to consult with a qualified surgeon to minimize these risks.4
What Happens During a Buccal Fat Removal Procedure?
Firstly the surgeon makes a small incision inside the mouth. Then, an experienced surgeon carefully removes buccal fat pads to create a more contoured facial appearance. To minimize visible scarring since the incision is inside the mouth. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable stitches. The surgery typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
How Do You Prepare for Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
To prepare, patients should avoid smoking and certain medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin. It’s also essential to follow the surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, including fasting or arranging for transportation home after the procedure.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the demand for buccal fat removal increased by 15% in 2023, with an average satisfaction rate of 85% among patients who underwent the procedure. The typical recovery time is about two weeks.
Post-Surgery Concerns and Results with a Facial Plastic Surgeon
Does Buccal Fat Grow Back?
Once removed, buccal fat does not grow back. The results considered permanent, though changes in weight or aging can alter the overall appearance and contour of the face.
Do You Regret Buccal Fat Removal?
Most people are happy with the final results of cheek reduction surgery but some may regret it if they feel their face looks too hollow or gaunt as they age. You need to talk to a surgeon about the long-term effects before you decide to have the cheek reduction surgery done.
Is It Ok to Remove Buccal Fat?
If you have larger buccal pads and want a more defined look, removing the buccal fat pad removal, may be an option. But you need to consider the health of your facial structure and future aging first.
How Long to Recover from Buccal Lipectomy?
Recovery takes about 1-2 weeks. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during this time. Most people can go back to normal activities in a few days. But surgeons advise avoiding strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks.
What are the Aftercare Instructions for Post-Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
After surgery, patients should avoid smoking, strenuous activities, and hot or spicy food. Ice packs and pain relievers can help with swelling and discomfort. Follow your surgeon’s post-op care instructions for a smooth, recovery process.
Can Buccal Fat Removal Cause Facial Asymmetry?
Certainly, if the plastic surgeon removed too much and did not do it evenly. Then it can cause facial asymmetry. So choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon for balanced results.
A 2023 ISAPS survey found that 90% of patients were satisfied with their buccal fat removal results. 10% had mild asymmetry.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries certain risks and complications. These can include infection, hematoma, nerve damage, and facial asymmetry. There is also the potential for scarring, fat embolism, and changes in facial sensation or numbness. In some cases, complications such as parotid duct injury or salivary fistula may occur, leading to a buildup of saliva.
It is crucial to discuss these risks with a qualified facial plastic surgeon to fully understand the potential outcomes and to ensure that buccal fat removal is the right choice for you. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon can help minimize these risks and achieve balanced, aesthetically pleasing results.
Fat Injections and Alternatives
How Long Do Fat Injections in Cheeks Last?
Fat injections also known as fat grafting can last for years. Some of the injected fat may reabsorbed over time. Then the surgeon recommends touch-ups.
What Are the Downsides of Fat Injection in the Face?
Fat injections have risks – infection, uneven results, and fat reabsorption. While it’s minimally invasive it still requires precision to avoid complications.
Why Remove Buccal Fat?
People remove buccal fat to get a slimmer more defined face. It’s particularly good for round-faced people or those who want more prominent cheekbones and jawline.
Buccal fat removal is a popular and effective procedure for a slimmer more contoured face. While it’s permanent results, you need to carefully consider the long-term effects of facial plastic surgery especially as facial fat decreases with age.
Not for everyone and removing too much fat can lead to hollowing over time. Individuals considering surgery, natural remedies, or non-invasive options. Consult with a qualified surgeon and weigh the pros and cons of the surgery to get the desired result for their desired facial shape and aesthetics.
