If you’ve ever wondered how celebrities and influencers achieve those sculpted cheekbones and a snatched jawline, one of the not so secret reasons might be buccal fat removal. This trending procedure—which is in the realm of cheek reduction surgery—has become a go-to for people looking to slim their lower face and create a more angular facial appearance.
But what exactly is buccal fat removal? Is it safe? Who is a good candidate? And how does it affect your appearance long-term?
Let’s dive into the science and strategy behind this facial contouring treatment.
What Is Buccal Fat and Why Remove It?
The buccal fat pad (Bichat’s fat pad) is a natural pocket of fat located deep in your cheeks, just below the cheekbones. While it helps give the face youthful fullness, some people find it creates a round or “baby face” appearance and causes their cheeks to appear chubby, even if they are thin otherwise.
Buccal fat removal is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that removes a portion of this fat to enhance midface contouring and create a more defined, sculpted appearance.
Top Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
– Slimmer, more sculpted cheeks
– Enhanced cheekbone and jawline definition
– Permanent results with no visible scars
– Ideal for individuals with genetically fuller faces
Who Is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
This procedure is best suited for individuals who:
- Have naturally round or full cheeks with parents having fuller cheeks
- Want permanent facial slimming along the cheeks
- Are at a stable weight and in good health
- Have realistic expectations about facial contouring
Not a good fit? If your face is already lean, you’re showing signs of facial aging, or your parents have hollow cheeks, buccal fat removal may not be ideal and could cause hollowing over time. In those cases, alternative treatments like skin tightening or submental liposuction may be better options.
How the Procedure Works
Buccal fat removal can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia and takes ~45-60 minutes. Here’s what you can expect:
- A small incision is made inside the cheek (no external scarring).
- The buccal fat pad is dissected free and mobilized into the mouth on one side.
- The buccal fat pad is dissected free and mobilized into the mouth on the other side.
- The face is examined bilaterally while the volume of fat excision is meticulously titrated to ensure optimal symmetry and contour.
- The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches which come out on their own in ~2 weeks.
Most patients return to work or normal activities within a few days. Swelling may persist for a week or two, and final results are typically visible in 6–12 weeks.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Safe?
Yes—when performed by a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, the procedure is safe and well-tolerated. However, like any surgery, it carries some risks:
- Temporary swelling or bruising
- Mild asymmetry
- Numbness (usually temporary)
- Rare complications: infection, hematoma, parotid duct injury
Proper technique and conservative fat removal are essential to avoid long-term hollowing or premature aging.
How Long Do Results Last?
The results are permanent. Once the fat is removed, it won’t come back. However, changes in your overall weight and natural aging can affect your facial contours over time.
It’s important to work with an experienced surgeon who takes a long-term approach. Over-removal of buccal fat—especially in younger patients—can lead to a gaunt or aged look years down the line.
Cost of Buccal Fat Removal
In the U.S., buccal fat removal costs depend on your surgeon’s expertise and location. Since it’s a cosmetic procedure, it’s not covered by insurance.
FAQs About Buccal Fat Removal
Q: Does buccal fat grow back?
A: No. Once it’s removed, it does not regenerate. But your overall face shape can still change with age or weight fluctuations.
Q: Will I look older after buccal fat removal?
A: Only if too much fat is removed or the procedure is done inappropriately. A skilled surgeon will preserve volume to avoid premature aging.
Q: Is it better than fillers or Botox?
A: It depends on your goals. Buccal fat removal is permanent and ideal for genetic fullness. Fillers and Botox are temporary and better for volume loss or addressing dynamic wrinkles.
Final Thoughts: Should You Consider Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal can be an excellent option for those looking to define their cheekbones, slim the face, and enhance their overall facial structure. However, it’s not right for everyone.
The key to a great result? Careful patient selection, expert surgical technique, and a personalized approach.
If you’re curious whether this procedure is right for you, book a consultation to explore your options.
Scientific References
- Mowlavi A, Kim DD, Wilhelmi BJ. Anatomical considerations in buccal fat pad removal. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2007;31(5):465–471.
- Rohrich RJ, Pessa JE. The retaining system of the face: Histologic evaluation of the septal boundaries of the subcutaneous fat compartments. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2008;121(5):1804–1809.
- Kim YJ, Lee JW, Park H. Clinical evaluation of buccal fat pad excision for facial contouring. J Craniofac Surg. 2021;32(2):567–571.
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