Buccal Fat Removal

It’s very common for people of all ages to be unhappy with the shape and overall appearance of their cheeks. For example, many individuals feel that they have overly full, “chubby” cheeks or unsightly bulges along the jawline. These issues can disrupt your facial harmony and negatively impact your self-esteem. If you’re looking to achieve a slimmer face and more defined cheeks, you may want to consider buccal fat removal.

Buccal Fat Removal Table of Contents

What Is Buccal Fat?

Buccal fat refers to the fat pads located in the cheeks, also known as Bichat’s fat pads. These collections of fat are responsible for excess fullness in the lower cheek area and the jowl area. Some feel that their cheeks are too full or chubby or that their face is too full and round and may be interested in reducing the size of their buccal fat pads.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves removing some or all of the patient’s buccal fat pads to create a slimmer, more contoured appearance in the cheeks. Removing this fat can highlight the cheekbones and improve the balance of the facial features creating a more “sculpted” appearance to the mid and lower face.

Why Choose Dr. Weber for Facial Plastic Surgery?

Buccal Fat Removal Before & After

Take a look at some of the results from our previous patients

Before and After Buccal Fat Removal in Denver 1

Before and After Buccal Fat Removal in Denver 2

Before and After Buccal Fat Removal in Denver 3

Individual results may vary

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Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal is an effective cosmetic surgery that can offer a variety of notable benefits, including:

Slimmer, more defined facial appearance
Increased self-confidence
Permanent results
No scarring (incision is often hidden inside the mouth)
Improved facial harmony
Eliminates the appearance of “chubby” cheeks or an excessively round face

What Should I Expect During the Surgery?

Before undergoing buccal fat removal, you will need to schedule a consultation with Dr. Weber. During this consultation, he will evaluate your facial structure and discuss your desired outcome. He will also inquire about the aging process for your parents and possibly siblings to gain some insight as to how your buccal fat pads will change over time. Dr. Weber will explain the risks and benefits of the procedure, as well as any alternative treatments that may be suitable for you. If you decide to move forward with the surgery, the doctor will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

In the vast majority of cases, buccal fat removal is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia with a mild sedative. Dr. Weber will either make a small incision inside your mouth or the fat pads can be removed during facelift surgery without any additional incisions. Either way, the fat pads will be carefully reduced or removed. The incisions will then be closed with dissolvable sutures. The surgery usually takes less than an hour, and you will be able to go home the same day. If you have had some sedation medication you will need someone else to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

How Long Is the Recovery Time?

After undergoing buccal fat removal, you can expect to experience some swelling and discomfort in the days following the procedure. Recovery time varies from person to person and depends on several factors such as age, health, and the extent of the procedure.

If you are undergoing buccal fat pad reduction by itself, you can expect to return to non-physical labor within 24-72 hours. During this time, you should rest as much as possible and avoid any strenuous activities. You may also be advised to avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days to prevent any damage to the incision site. You should avoid intense exercise for at least one week after the procedure.

It is important to follow Dr. Weber’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. This may include taking pain medication and attending follow-up appointments to monitor your progress but will vary based on the specific combination of procedures that you choose to undergo.

What Is The Cost Of Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal in our office starts at $7,000. This procedure is performed in-office at Weber Facial Plastic Surgery, without the need for an IV or general anesthesia. The final cost of services will be discussed during your private consultation with Dr. Stephen Weber. If necessary, our office can assist you in applying for financing.

Closeup of an older woman's face, hand to her neck

Am I a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

Adults who would like to achieve slimmer, more defined cheeks could be good candidates for buccal fat removal in Denver. To be an ideal candidate for the surgery, you should:

Be in generally good physical health
Have the desire to remove fat from your cheeks
Not be currently pregnant or nursing
Be a non-smoker
Have realistic expectations for the procedure

What Kind of Results Can I Expect After Buccal Fat Removal?

Typically, you will start to see the results of buccal fat removal after around two to three weeks. At this time, the swelling will begin to subside and your cheeks will start looking a bit slimmer. However, it usually takes around three months for the complete effects of the surgery to become visible. Generally, the results of buccal fat removal surgery are permanent, but if you gain a large amount of weight in the future, your cheeks could potentially plump up once again.

Elevating Safety and Excellence

Dr. Weber's Onsite Facial Procedures

As part of his commitment to safety and aesthetic excellence, Dr. Weber performs around 90% of facial procedures onsite in his state-of-the-art office suites. He finds that this approach improves communication and transparency, reduces overall costs and downtime, and helps to lower the risk of anesthesia-related complications. As an alternative to general anesthesia, Dr. Weber will induce a relaxing “beauty sleep” through oral sedation (pills) and local anesthesia. These general anesthesia substitutes are especially beneficial for older patients, who are traditionally more vulnerable to complications from general anesthesia.

Why Choose Weber Facial Plastic Surgery for Buccal Fat Removal?

To achieve the best possible results and avoid complications, you need to select a qualified plastic surgeon for your buccal fat removal procedure. At Weber Facial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Stephen Weber is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon known for his precision, artistic vision and consistently natural-looking results. He and the rest of our team will work closely with you to fully understand your aesthetic needs and goals. We will then go above and beyond to ensure that you have a comfortable overall experience and achieve the life-changing results that you desire. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.

Weber Facial Plastic Surgery

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720-738-4443

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10463 Park Meadows Dr STE 110, Lone Tree, CO 80124