Buccal Fat Removal Surgery — What It Is and Who It's For
Buccal fat removal surgery aims to slim down the cheeks, particularly around the cheek hollows. While a soft, full face is often seen as youthful, some feel their face is too plump, even chubby.
This buccal fat removal procedure removes the buccal fat pad, a natural pocket of fat nestled in the cheek hollow area. The size varies from person to person, and even between cheeks. If you have a thin, narrow face, buccal fat removal might make you look gaunt over time, so it is usually not recommended for those with naturally slim faces.
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Buccal fat removal cost & Procedure in Brief
| Duration | 35 - 40 mins |
| Pain | Mild 2/10 |
| Visible Results | Immediate, final results at 6 months |
| Results Last | Permanently |
| Hospital Stay | Daycare |
| Downtime | 2 - 3 Days |
| Buccal Fat Removal Cost (excl. GST)* | INR 55,000 |
Infoplex
Dive into our collection of informative videos and engaging blog posts. Here, you’ll find a wealth of resources designed to provide valuable insights into our procedures
Dr.Sameer Karkhanis | Welcome to CCRS
The CCRS Walkthrough
Dr.Sameer Karkhanis | Welcome to CCRS
The CCRS Walkthrough
Procedure
Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal Surgery
Buccal fat removal is a highly individualized procedure suitable for patients who are concerned about full or chubby cheeks, regardless of gender. Both women and men considering buccal fat removal should have stable facial volume and realistic expectations before proceeding.
Pre-operative
- You need to undergo lab tests or a medical evaluation.
- Stop smoking at least two weeks before your buccal fat removal surgery.
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements, as they can increase bleeding and bruising.
Procedure
Medications are administered to ensure your comfort during buccal fat removal surgery, with options including intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. An incision is made inside the mouth, on the inner cheek. In some cases, such as during a concurrent facelift, the buccal fat pad can be removed without a separate intraoral incision. All incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.
Post-op Care
For the first 48 hours following your procedure, a liquid diet is recommended alongside mouth washes every 4 hours to keep the sutures clean. Avoid disturbing the sutures with your tongue until cleared by your surgeon. The sutures are self-dissolving. A semi-solid and soft diet is advised for one week.
Recovery
The final buccal fat removal before and after results may initially be obscured by swelling. It can take several months for your cheeks to fully contour to their new appearance, gradually looking less full. While excellent outcomes are anticipated, there is no guarantee, and in some cases, more than one surgical procedure may be needed. Ultimately, your buccal fat removal surgery delivers a slimmer, more sculpted cheek profile, particularly in the cheek hollow area.
Complications
As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal surgery carries potential risks. These include, but are not limited to:
- Anesthesia risks
- Asymmetry
- Bleeding
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Hematoma
- Injury to a salivary duct
- Injury to branches of the facial nerve, resulting in temporary or permanent facial muscle weakness
- Possibility of revisional surgery
- Suboptimal aesthetic result and/or minimal changes
Buccal Fat Removal Can Be Combined With
FACETITE
Advanced radiofrequency contouring treatment that tightens skin and reduces fat in the lower face and neck, achieving a firmer, youthful appearance.
BLEPHAROPLASTY
Eyelid surgery that removes excess skin and fat, rejuvenating tired or droopy eyes for a brighter, more refreshed appearance.
CHIN AUGMENTATION
Enhances chin shape and projection with implants or filler, balancing facial features and strengthening the jawline for a naturally harmonious result after buccal fat removal.
Consultation
Meet the skilled professionals behind our transformative treatments. Each of our specialist doctors brings extensive experience and a commitment to excellence, ensuring personalized care and exceptional results.
Sameer Karkhanis, MD
Board-Certified Mumbai Plastic Surgeon
Chief Plastic Surgeon & the Director at CCRS is a qualified Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is Board Certified, with the qualification of DNB Plastic Surgery (Diplomate of National Board). He is an active member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
FAQs
Our dedicated team of professionals provides top-notch surgical services in a modern, comfortable environment. Explore our gallery to see the advanced facilities and compassionate care that set us apart in the field of surgery.
Yes, buccal fat removal is a permanent procedure. Once the fat deposits are removed, they do not regenerate. The full buccal fat removal before and after transformation may take time due to healing and swelling, but results are lasting. Keep in mind your face will continue to age naturally over time.
No, buccal fat removal reshapes your facial contour but does not cause premature aging. There are no long-term negative effects when performed correctly by an experienced surgeon.
Buccal fat removal cost at our centre starts from INR 55,000 (excl. GST). Final pricing depends on the extent of treatment and any combination procedures. Contact us for a personalised quote.
No. Once buccal fat removal surgery has been performed, it cannot be undone. However, skilled surgeons have techniques to manage any asymmetry or irregularity that may arise.
If you’re unhappy with the results of your buccal fat removal, alternative options exist for restoring volume in your cheeks. These can include but are not limited to:
- Dermal fillers that plump up areas where volume loss has occurred due to fat removal, weight loss, or aging;
- Fat transfer procedures that use fat from another area of your body, harvested via liposuction, and injects into the cheeks to restore fullness;
- Cheek augmentation involving implants inserted into the cheeks to provide more definition.
Your options depend on your overall aesthetic goals. Your doctor can help you decide which option is best for you.
Absolutely. Buccal fat removal for men is an increasingly popular choice for those seeking sharper, more angular facial definition. Male patients follow the same surgical process and recovery timeline as female patients. A consultation helps determine candidacy based on individual facial anatomy.
