Buccal Fat Removal (Cheek Reduction Surgery)

Buccal fat are pads of fat that augment the lower part of the cheeks. These "chubby cheeks" can result from a variety of conditions. Individuals who are overweight is one factor, while a generic predisposition can also cause one to have round cheeks.

Buccal fat removal, also called cheek reduction surgery, offers a solution to those who want to reduce the size of their cheeks.

The procedure takes about 20 minutes to perform with local anesthesia. Dr. Jaggi will create an incision 2 - 3cm long on the inside of the cheek, starting above the second molar towards the back of the mouth. The incision exposes the fascia and fibers of the main cheek muscle. By applying pressure externally under the cheek bone, the buccal fat will protrude through the incision. The fat is then teased out with forceps or surgical tweezers. After a collective amount is removed, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.

Buccal Fat Removal Recovery

With buccal fat removal, patients can expect swelling and difficulty chewing for a few days, up to a week. We recommend a soft diet for the first week. Patient should rinse with salt water the first week after each meal.

It is normal to taste blood or have minimal bleeding the first three days after surgery. Most patients usually return to work in about a week following surgery. It is normal to have swelling for a few weeks after surgery. It usually takes about four months after surgery to see the final results of the buccal fat removal procedure, which are permanent.

Buccal Fat Removal Preparation

Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.