What is buccal fat?
Buccal fat is the cheek fat that sits directly under the buccinators muscle in the cheek. It gives the cheeks a plump, full look. With age, it gradually resorbs
What is buccal fat removal?
Buccal fat is removed by making a small incision inside the mouth over the fat. The muscle is separated to allow excess fat to be removed. It is done in the office with local anesthesia or in the operating room with general anesthesia. Surgery is faster and a bit safer when you are asleep.
What does buccal fat removal do?
It decreases the fullness of the cheeks. Your result may not show right away. At first, swelling may hide the result. You usually see the result in 2-6 weeks and the final result in 6 months.
What is the recovery?
Cheeks are sore for about 5 days. There may be some bruising. Soft food is recommended. Absorbing sutures are used. No sports or work outs for 2 weeks.
Can other operations be done at the same time?
Yes, if you are asleep for the procedure. Done with local anesthesia in the office, usually only one procedure is done at a time.
How hollow will it make my cheeks?
The result should look natural, not excessively hollowed. Your body naturally absorbs cheek fat as you grow older so if too much fat is removed, you can get a dramatic hollowing of the cheeks later on. This is a problem that cannot be corrected.
What are the risks?
There are the usual surgical risks such as bleeding and infection but major problems are uncommon. Most complications are minor and resolve with little or no treatment.
Is buccal fat removal right for me?
Dr. Morgan can tell you after she examines you. It depends on whether the look you want is likely to be created by removing buccal fat. If not, other procedures may be recommended.
We love to help our patients. If you have questions or want to contact us to schedule a consultation, it’s easy. You can contact us through the contact form on this website or call our office at 404.941-3200.