How to Achieve Slimmer Cheeks With Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal, also known as buccal lipectomy, is a cosmetic surgery that reduces the fat pads in the cheeks, giving the face a more chiselled and contoured appearance. The procedure involves a small incision inside the mouth, through which excess fat is carefully removed. Since the incisions are internal, there are no visible scars, and the recovery time is relatively quick.

This procedure is particularly suited for individuals who feel their cheeks are too round or full, often referred to as a ‘baby face’ look. However, it’s not for everyone, and understanding whether you’re a good candidate is key.

Buccal fat removal is ideal for those who:

• Have naturally fuller cheeks that don’t respond to weight loss
• Desire a more sculpted, contoured look to their face
• Have good skin elasticity to prevent sagging after fat removal
• Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations

However, if you already have a slim face, removing too much fat can lead to a gaunt or hollowed-out appearance as you age. That’s why it’s essential to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Cormac Joyce, to determine whether this procedure is right for you.

This procedure offers several advantages, making it a sought-after choice for those looking to refine their facial contours:

• More Defined Cheekbones – By removing excess fat from the lower cheeks, your natural bone structure becomes more prominent.
• A Slimmer, More Sculpted Face – Buccal fat removal can give the illusion of a more angular and refined facial shape.
• Permanent Results – Unlike fillers or contouring makeup, the effects of buccal fat removal are long-lasting, as the removed fat does not grow back.
• Minimally Invasive with No External Scars – The incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars on the face.

Buccal fat removal is a straightforward surgical procedure that typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. It is performed under local anaesthesia or mild sedation, depending on your comfort level.

During the surgery:

1. A small incision is made inside each cheek.
2. The surgeon carefully removes the appropriate amount of fat to enhance facial definition.
3. The incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches.

Since the surgery is performed inside the mouth, there’s minimal downtime, and most patients can return to their daily activities within a few days.

One of the biggest advantages of buccal fat removal is the relatively quick recovery. Here’s what you can expect post-surgery:

• Mild swelling and discomfort in the first few days, which can be managed with pain relievers and cold compresses.
• A soft diet may be recommended for the first week to allow the incisions inside the mouth to heal properly.
• Avoiding strenuous activities for a week or two to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Full results typically become noticeable within a few months as swelling subsides and the face settles into its new, contoured shape.

As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal comes with some risks, including infection, swelling, asymmetry, and changes in sensation in the cheek area. However, when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, these risks are minimal, and complications are rare.

If you’ve been considering facial surgery but aren’t sure what you need, buccal fat removal could be a great option—especially if you struggle with overly full cheeks. However, it’s important to weigh your options carefully.

A consultation with a specialist like Dr. Cormac Joyce will help determine whether this procedure aligns with your aesthetic goals. In some cases, alternative treatments such as dermal fillers or a combination of procedures may be recommended to achieve the most balanced and natural-looking results.