Buccal Fat Pad Excision
The goal of buccal fat removal is to thin the cheeks, specifically in the area of the cheek hollows. Although a face that is naturally soft and filled out is considered youthful, some people find that their face feels too full, even chubby.
A buccal fat removal removes the buccal fat pad, a naturally-occurring pad of fat in the cheek hollow area. The size of the buccal fat pad varies with each individual patient, and the buccal fat pad in each cheek may be different sizes. Buccal fat pad extraction surgery is typically not performed in people with thin, narrow faces as removal of the fat may cause the face to look more gaunt with age.
ANESTHESIA
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
LOCATION OF OPERATION
Buccal fat removal surgery is typically performed in a hospital, licensed ambulatory surgery setting or in an in-office procedure room.
LENGTH OF PROCEDURE
45 minutes.
LENGTH OF STAY
Normally this is performed as an outpatient procedure, but if done in conjunction with a facelift or other procedures, it may require an overnight short stay.
RECUPERATION AND HEALING
Mild to moderate. Any discomfort should be relieved by medications prescribed by the physician. Some patients are comfortable after taking Tylenol or Motrin.
Should be taken for 7-10 days after procedure. It is very important you finish all of this medication.
Both can be expected, but will improve within 10-14 days.
None are needed.
All sutures are on the inside of the cheek and are dissolvable.
You may feel capable of returning within 5 days, but your appearance will be the deciding factor.
May begin 2 weeks after surgery.
Are evident after swelling is gone, about 10-14 days.
Special Care
Smoking is not advised; especially if doing in conjunction with a facelift (Smoking is prohibited 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery).
