Chances are you’ve heard of facelifts, brow lifts, and rhinoplasties as forms of plastic surgery. But, have you ever heard of buccal fat removal? Many people haven’t. It’s a procedure that can change the look of your face in a big way and can help you regain confidence in your appearance you may have lost.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
The buccal fat pad is a pad of fat that can be found in the cheek’s hollow area. It occurs naturally but its size varies from person to person. The buccal fat pads in each cheek may also vary from size to size in the same person.
Although the buccal fat pads are there to even out your face, some people feel as though they make their faces look chubby and choose to remove them to thin out their faces. Because buccal fat pads are specific to each individual, these procedures are tailored to each patient and should be done by a plastic surgeon you trust fully.
How Is Buccal Fat Removal Done?
Buccal fat removal can typically be done in a plastic surgeon’s office and is considered an out-patient procedure. Before the procedure begins you will be given anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will go over the various types and will help you choose the one that’s right for you.
An incision is then made on the inside of your mouth on the inner part of your cheek so that the buccal fat can be removed. Once the fat is removed, sutures are used to close the incision in your mouth. These sutures may be absorbable depending on the type your surgeon uses.
There will be some swelling in the cheek area as you heal. As the swelling goes down, you’ll begin to see the results of your surgery. It can take several months for the full effects to be noticed depending on how quickly you heal.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
If you have a thin, narrow face, you may not be the best candidate for buccal fat removal. Taking the buccal fat pads out can make your face look more gaunt as you get older.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you may be a good candidate for buccal fat removal if:
- You are bothered by the appearance of your chubby cheeks
- You have realistic expectations about the procedure
- You are physically healthy and at a stable weight
- You are a nonsmoker
When you visit your plastic surgeon for a consultation, they will examine you and let you know whether you are a good candidate for buccal fat removal. That’s why it’s extremely important to be completely honest when asked about your health and medical history. Lying or leaving out important pieces of information can lead to complications and health problems.
How Do I Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Buccal Fat Removal?
The process for choosing a plastic surgeon for buccal fat removal is the same as you would follow for any other type of plastic surgery procedure. Make sure the surgeon is certified, licensed, and experienced. You should also check online reviews and contact the office for referrals.
During your first visit ask to see before and after photos of previous buccal fat removal surgeries. This will give you a better idea of the surgeon’s work and whether or not you like the results. Also, gauge how the surgeon makes you feel during your consultation. You should feel completely at ease and comfortable asking as many questions you may have.
It’s important that you discuss any previous surgeries and your complete medical history with your plastic surgeon when you are asked questions during your consultation. This will help the surgeon determine if the surgery is right for you and if any special accommodations need to be made.
Contact Us for More Information on Buccal Fat Removal
If you’re considering buccal fat removal and would like more information, contact Dr. Keith Ladner. Dr. Ladner is extremely experienced and will let you know if the procedure is right for you or if you would benefit more from something else. Dr. Ladner is also double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as the American Board of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. Call today at (303) 253-7686 or go online to schedule a consultation.
Leave a Reply