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You can enjoy a more sculpted and refined facial structure with buccal fat pad reduction in Boston. This procedure isn't just about aesthetics; it's about enhancing self-confidence and achieving a more harmonious facial look. Our experienced team of board-certified plastic surgeons at the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery can custom-tailor this innovative procedure to create a more sculpted facial look.

About buccal fat reduction

The buccal fat pad is within the cheeks, specifically around the lower cheekbone area. This pad of fat contributes to the fullness and roundness of the cheeks, affecting the overall shape of your face. Various factors can influence the appearance of buccal fat, impacting your facial features such as:

  • Genetics
  • Age
  • Body weight

As we age, changes in the volume of buccal fat may lead some individuals to desire a more contoured or slimmed-down appearance. Buccal fat reduction, also known as buccal lipectomy or cheek reduction, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the volume of buccal fat. This surgical intervention enhances facial contours, creating a more defined and balanced look while highlighting the cheekbones and achieving a slimmer facial shape.

Benefits of buccal fat pad reduction surgery

Buccal fat pad reduction surgery offers several advantages, including:

  • Improved facial contour: This procedure creates a leaner, more defined facial contour by removing fat from the cheeks.
  • Balanced appearance: Buccal fat pad reduction surgery enhances facial proportions, creating a more symmetrical and harmonious look.
  • Customization: Our surgeons tailor the procedure to your unique facial structure and aesthetic goals, ensuring a personalized outcome.
  • Enhanced self-confidence: Improving your facial appearance through cheek reduction surgery can boost self-confidence and self-esteem.
  • Quick recovery: Performed under local anesthesia, buccal lipectomy boasts a relatively short recovery time. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within days.
  • Lasting results: Buccal fat pad reduction surgery typically delivers long-lasting results, as the removed fat pads do not usually regenerate.
  • Minimal scarring: Incisions are discreetly placed inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars on the face.
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Preparing for your buccal lipectomy

The journey to buccal fat pad reduction in Brookline begins with a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons, Dr. Miller, Dr. Sanan, or Dr. Tandon. During this consultation, your aesthetic goals are discussed, and your candidacy for the surgery is assessed. Medical history and facial features will be evaluated to ensure that you're a suitable candidate.

Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed guidance tailored to your specific situation. In addition to specific instructions, here are some general steps to help you prepare for the procedure and maximize your results:

Quit smoking

Refrain from smoking or using nicotine products at least a month before surgery, as they can hinder the healing process.

Medication review

Discontinue medications, supplements, and herbal remedies that may interact poorly with anesthesia or healing.

Procedure planning

Arrange transportation to and from the surgery center and prepare a comfortable recovery space with easy access to essentials.

Support system

Have someone available to assist you during the initial days of recovery, especially if you live alone.

Time off

Consider taking a week off work to ensure adequate rest, even though many patients return to work within a few days.

What to expect during your procedure?

  • Cheek reduction surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, chosen based on your preference and the surgeon's recommendation. This ensures a comfortable and pain-free experience during the procedure.
  • After the anesthesia takes effect, your surgeon will create a small incision (approximately 1-2 cm) inside the mouth, strategically positioned in the inner cheek area between the gums and cheek. This hidden incision minimizes scarring.
  • The buccal fat pad is then gently exposed, and excess fat is meticulously removed using specialized instruments. Your surgeon will ensure the right amount of fat is removed to achieve the desired contouring effect while avoiding an overly gaunt appearance.
  • After removing the desired fat, the incision is closed with dissolvable sutures. The same procedure is performed on the other cheek. The entire surgery typically takes about one hour to complete.
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What to expect after your procedure?

Following buccal fat pad reduction surgery, you can anticipate some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which should gradually subside within days to a week. Pain or discomfort can typically be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. For a smooth recovery, follow our post-operative care instructions, which include avoiding strenuous activities and maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent infection.

The results of buccal fat reduction surgery become more apparent as swelling diminishes, usually within six weeks. Remember that individual results may vary, and it's essential to maintain realistic expectations.

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Is buccal fat pad reduction right for you?

Considering buccal fat pad reduction surgery to achieve more defined cheekbones and a slimmer facial appearance? Several factors can help you make an informed decision:

  • Aesthetic goals: If your primary goal is to enhance cheekbone definition and overall facial appearance, this procedure may be suitable. It's crucial to maintain realistic expectations.
  • Health status: good candidates are generally in good health without underlying medical conditions that may complicate the surgery or healing process. The procedure is typically recommended for adults, as younger patients should wait for their facial features to fully develop.
  • Stable weight: weight fluctuations can impact results, so it's important to maintain a stable weight before and after the procedure. If you're working on significant weight loss, consider postponing the surgery.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller, Dr. Sanan, or Dr. Tandon to explore your goals, assess your facial anatomy, and determine if buccal fat pad reduction surgery is right for you.  

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Buccal Fat Reduction FAQ

What is the recovery after buccal fat reduction surgery?

When can I expect results after my surgery?

Are there any risks or complications associated with buccal fat reduction surgery?

What is the recovery after buccal fat reduction surgery?

Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within one to two weeks. Swelling and bruising may persist for several weeks but will gradually subside.

When can I expect results after my surgery?

Some results may be visible around six weeks after the surgery, with the outcome becoming fully apparent over a few months as post-surgical swelling subsides.

Are there any risks or complications associated with buccal fat reduction surgery?

Like any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, and scarring. Our surgeons will ensure you understand possible side effects prior to your procedure.

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