Buccal fat pad removal, a surgical procedure that removes the fat pad in the cheeks, is a trending cosmetic surgery. While some people love it for the more sculpted, refined look it achieves, others worry that it will make them look older.
Let’s take a deeper look into this trending surgery and determine whether it’s right for you.
Why get buccal fat removal surgery?
If you’ve always had round, chubby cheeks, you probably know how frustrating it can be to look in the mirror and see a more childlike look. Instead of a sophisticated, sculpted appearance, your cheeks are rounded. There are even names for this: “chipmunk cheeks” or “babyface.”
Having fuller cheeks is a genetic trait. That means that no matter how fit you are, your face will always look rounder. Buccal fat pad removal is a simple surgical procedure that removes the fat pad in the cheeks, creating better definition and getting rid of the “babyface” look for the good. And because the incisions are made inside the cheeks, there is no scarring.
Will buccal fat removal surgery make you look old?
In short–no. A longer answer is: if your surgeon is board-certified and experienced, and you are a proper candidate for the procedure, no, it won’t.
Some people worry that this surgery will make the cheeks look hollow and cause premature aging. After all, dermal fillers are used to provide more volume in the cheeks as we get older, and natural facial volume is lost. However, because candidates for this surgery have excess buccal fat and a proper facial structure, their faces age naturally after the procedure, like anyone else’s.
Another vital factor in ensuring your results achieve a sophisticated, youthful look rather than an older-looking face is that the right amount of buccal fat is removed. This comes down to choosing the proper surgeon. Only work with a board-certified, experienced surgeon who can provide before and after photos to help you see their excellent results.
How do you know if you’re a candidate for buccal fat pad removal surgery?
This depends on your facial structure. If your cheekbones are not prominent enough, you might have a more sunken appearance. Dr. Rousso will carefully analyze your facial structure and cheekbones. If you have excess buccal fat and your cheekbones are prominent enough, he will give the go-ahead for buccal fat removal. Your results will be sculpted and defined, not aged or sunken.
Quick facts about buccal fat removal–the good and the bad
The good
Permanent fat removal
Short, simple procedure
Local anesthesia only
Incisions are made inside the mouth, resulting in no visible scarring
Slims the face, putting your chubby cheeks in the past
Defines the cheekbones
Minimal downtime lasting only a few days
The bad
If overdone, or you’re not the right candidate, it can cause hollow cheeks
Risks include cheek asymmetry and damage to salivary ducts (rarely, facial nerve damage)
Residual swelling may last for about two weeks
It will take about three months to see your full results
Buccal fat pad removal at Rousso Adams Plastic Surgery
Dr. Daniel E. Rousso is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon specializing exclusively in facial cosmetic procedures such as buccal fat removal. He brings 30+ years of experience to his work with patients and is known for his excellence and outstanding results.
Dr. Austin S. Adams is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery. Like Dr. Rousso, he is an expert in facial anatomy, making him an excellent choice for buccal fat pad removal. He is a caring surgeon dedicated to achieving his patients' aesthetic goals.
To learn more about buccal fat pad removal at Rousso Adams Plastic Surgery, please call today to schedule a consultation!