Buccal fat removal has rapidly increased in popularity over the past few years and can be an effective way to enhance the definition of your lower face. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Li will analyze your face in detail and discuss whether Buccal Fat Removal is a good option for you.
The buccal fat pad is a naturally-occuring fat pad in the cheeks. In patients with a fuller face, a portion of the fat pad can sometimes be removed to help create a slimmer appearance to the lower face. Other features may also contribute to a fuller face, such as a promiment jawline, or deficient cheek, and sometimes these features can be altered in addition to buccal fat removal.
Buccal fat removal is performed with incisions placed inside the mouth. Absorbable sutures are placed inside the mouth and dissolve on their own over time. Surgery can be performed under local anesthetic or general anesthetic.
KEY POINTS
SURGERY UNDER GENERAL OR LOCAL ANESTHETIC
GO HOME THE SAME DAY (DAY SURGERY)
RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES WITHIN A WEEK
RESULTS ARE PERMANENT AND LONG-STANDING
IMPROVE FACIAL HARMONY
REDUCE LOWER CHEEK FULLNESS AND IMPROVE JAWLINE DEFINITION
HIDE SCARS INSIDE YOUR MOUTH
BOOST YOUR BODY IMAGE AND SELF-ESTEEM
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE SURGERY
You will be evaluated by Dr. Li at the time of your initial consultation to determine if Buccal Fat Removal Surgery is the best option for you
You will be required to quit smoking 4 weeks before surgery
You may need to complete testing before surgery, which may include a physical with your PCP/primary physician, blood work, and an ECG
Prescriptions for your surgery will be sent to your local pharmacy, please obtain these medications ahead of time and bring them to your surgery
A deposit is required to secure your surgery date
Full payment is required 2 weeks before surgery; payment options include cash, cashier's check, or credit through Alphaeon or CareCredit
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
General anesthesia can sometimes cause generalized body soreness and fatigue for a couple of days
Maximum discomfort will occur in the first few days after surgery and gradually improve
You will need to use ice packs after surgery to decrease swelling
You will not be allowed to engage in any significant exercise (e.g. running, lifting weights) for 2 weeks
You may experience temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, or a burning sensation involving your face; bruising and swelling takes several weeks to improve; numbness takes a couple months to normalize
Scars may be red and firm for approximately 6 months before they soften and fade