Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal is typically performed under local anesthesia, which means you will be awake during the procedure but won’t feel any pain. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, with some experiencing a sensation of pressure or slight tugging. After the surgery, mild discomfort or swelling may occur, but this is usually manageable with prescribed pain medications and over-the-counter pain relievers. The pain is typically short-lived, and any post-operative discomfort usually subsides within a few days to a week.

The number of appointments required for buccal fat removal includes an initial consultation, surgery, and a few follow-up visits. Following the surgery, you will have at least one or two follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure that any swelling or bruising is resolving properly. Additional appointments may be scheduled if needed, especially if you have any concerns during your recovery. These follow-up visits are crucial for monitoring your progress and ensuring that your facial contours are improving as expected.

The results of buccal fat removal become noticeable fairly quickly, with the initial changes typically visible within a few weeks as swelling begins to subside. However, the full effect may take a few months to manifest as the face gradually refines and contours itself after the procedure. It’s important to keep in mind that each person’s healing timeline is different, and factors like swelling, bruising, and individual healing rates can influence the speed at which you see your final results. Most patients are thrilled with the transformation once the swelling has fully dissipated, as the contours of their cheeks appear more defined and sculpted. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following Dr. Somenek’s aftercare instructions will ensure that the results last over time.

Buccal fat removal can often be combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance your overall facial appearance. For example, some patients opt to combine buccal fat removal with procedures such as facelifts, lip lifts, or rhinoplasty for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Combining procedures enables you to achieve more dramatic changes in a single surgical session, which can be a time-saving option. However, discussing your specific goals with Dr. Somenek is crucial to determine if combining procedures is the right choice for you.

The risks of buccal fat pad reduction are minimal. Since most incisions are placed in the mouth, visible scars are not often an issue, and there are no critical blood vessels near the incision sites. However, when a procedure is performed in the mouth, there is a risk of damaging the gums, teeth, or lips; however, these risks are reduced with the careful surgical techniques that Dr. Somenek utilizes.

These results are permanent, so you do not have to worry that the fat will grow back. Swelling may last for two to three days, and the final results may take several weeks to become visible.

Although the concept of removing fat from the cheek area is similar, cheek liposuction and buccal fat pad reduction are distinct procedures. In cheek liposuction, fat is removed through a narrow tube and suction device that works as a vacuum to achieve a more contoured look. Dr. Somenek does not recommend cheek liposuction, as it carries a significantly higher risk and is unpredictable. Buccal fat pad reduction is a surgical procedure that involves the incision and removal of the pad of fat that sits under the cheekbone.