Buccal fat removal procedure

What is the buccal fat removal and how does the procedure proceed?

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure to reduce fatty structures located inside the cheeks, which can contribute to a fuller, "puckered" facial appearance. The procedure is especially recommended for people with a baby face beauty type who want to slim their face and give them more defined, refined features. It is a permanent alternative to facial modeling with hyaluronic acid, and the results last a lifetime.

The procedure is performed under local or intravenous anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety. The surgeon makes small incisions inside the mouth, eliminating visible scarring. Through these incisions, the appropriate amount of fat tissue is removed, taking care to maintain the natural proportions of the face. Finally, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures that dissolve during the healing process.

The entire procedure takes about an hour and does not require hospitalization. The full result is visible from 2 weeks to 3 months after the procedure. Buccal fat removal allows for a subtle but noticeable change in the appearance of the face, but the decision to perform it should be carefully discussed with a plastic surgeon, taking into account the potential benefits and possible risks.

How to prepare for the procedure?

Preparation for the Buccal fat removal procedure begins with a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During the visit, expectations, results and the course of the procedure are discussed. The doctor carefully assesses the patient's health and rules out any contraindications, such as a very thin face or age that could affect the natural loss of fat in the future. Basic laboratory tests are necessary, and medications that affect blood clotting should be avoided about 14 days before the procedure. It is also recommended to give up alcohol and limit smoking, as they can slow down the healing process.

On the day of surgery, the patient should be fasting if intravenous anesthesia is planned. It is important to take care of oral hygiene before the operation, since the incisions are made inside the cheeks. Strict adherence to these instructions allows the procedure to be performed safely and reduces the risk of complications.

Recovery after buccal fat removal

Recovery from buccal fat removal is relatively short, but requires diligence and adherence to medical advice. Immediately after the procedure, you may experience swelling and slight discomfort in the cheek area. Swelling is a natural part of the healing process and usually subsides within 7-10 days, although it may persist longer in some patients.

During the first few days after surgery, special care should be taken with oral hygiene, as the incisions are located inside the cheeks. It is recommended to use antiseptic mouthwash and avoid hard, hot or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical site. For a few days, intense physical activity should be limited and touching the face should be avoided so as not to interfere with the healing process.

The sutures used during the procedure are absorbable, which means there is no need to remove them - they dissolve within a few weeks. The full healing process takes about 10 days, but you'll have to wait from 2 weeks to 3 months for the results, as the face needs time for the natural alignment of the tissues after fat reduction.

Possible, although rare, complications, such as infection, bleeding or nerve damage, require prompt consultation with a doctor. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor your condition and report any worrisome symptoms immediately. 

Contraindications for buccal fat removal

The Buccal fat removal procedure, while relatively safe, cannot be performed on everyone. There are several contraindications that may prevent the procedure from being performed.

• Very slim face. Individuals with a fine, slim face are at particular risk for over-slimming, which can lead to an unnatural appearance or accentuate the aging process in the future.
• Advanced age. In older people who naturally experience facial fat loss, the procedure can further exacerbate this process, causing the appearance of sunken cheeks.
• Chronic diseases. Patients suffering from unregulated hypertension, diabetes, or other chronic conditions that may affect the healing process or increase the risk of complications should not undergo the procedure without first consulting a physician.
• Blood clotting disorders. People with clotting disorders or taking anticoagulant medications may be at greater risk of bleeding during and after the procedure.
• Active infections and inflammation. Any infection in the oral cavity, such as gingivitis, tooth decay or aphthae, must be treated before proceeding.
• Autoimmune diseases. Diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, can negatively affect the wound healing process.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. The procedure is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women due to the risks to mother and child.