To remove excess fullness in the lower face and achieve a more defined, sophisticated facial appearance, you may wonder if buccal fat removal would be a good procedure for you? Buccal fat removal involves reducing the “chipmunk cheek” appearance by surgically reducing the size of the buccal fat pad.
Let’s Take a Closer Look
Pros
- Short procedure, lasts < 1 hour
- Slims the face and defines the cheeks
- Incisions are made inside the mouth, causing no visible scarring
- Results are permanent
- Minimal downtime of 3-4 days
Cons
- Swelling lasts for about two weeks
- Full results not apparent for 3 months
- Can potentially cause hollow cheeks as you age if overdone
- Risk of cheek asymmetry
- Risk of damaging salivary ducts or rarely, facial nerve damage
Is this Procedure Right for You?
Deciding whether to do buccal fat pad removal includes weighing some key factors. Your age, skin, and other physical qualities are important points to consider. Dr. Vila will help you understand every detail of this procedure and to advise you on if this is best for your unique physical needs and goals.
Buccal fat pad removal is an ideal treatment for patients who are between 20-50+ years old. Removing buccal fat at too young of an age may result in causing hollow cheeks or a gaunt appearance as the remaining facial fat reduces over time.
Sculpting Your Facial Contours With Dr. Peter Vila
Dr. Peter Vila is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with extensive expertise and training in achieving sculpted facial features, lifted cheekbones, and a sophisticated, refined appearance. He is known for achieving natural, authentic, aesthetic results that allow patients to embrace their beauty and achieve a new confidence. Call for a consultation to learn more about buccal fat pad removal with Dr. Vila.