Buccal Fat Pad Removal
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and Greater Los Angeles
Buccal fat pad removal, commonly referred to as buccal fat removal, is a surgical procedure that enhances facial contouring by reducing excess fat in the cheeks. This procedure is increasingly popular among individuals who desire a slimmer and more defined face. Through effective cheek reduction surgery, patients can achieve a sculpted look, enhancing their overall aesthetic appearance and boosting confidence. (1)
Dr. Michael Zarrabi is a major leader in this innovative cosmetic treatment, having performed it on many individuals in the Los Angeles area. If you would like to explore your options for buccal fat pad removal, please take a moment to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Zarrabi or another expert provider at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call (310) 584-9990 to reach our offices in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica.
Contents [hide]
- 1 About Buccal Fat Pad Removal
- 2 Benefits
- 3 Candidates
- 4 Personal Consultation
- 5 Preparation
- 6 Procedure
- 7 Recovery
- 8 Results
- 9 Corresponding Procedures
- 10 Cost of Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Los Angeles
- 11 FAQ
- 11.1 What is the average recovery time for buccal fat pad removal?
- 11.2 Does buccal fat pad removal leave visible scarring?
- 11.3 How long do the results of buccal fat pad removal last?
- 11.4 Are there any risks associated with buccal fat pad removal?
- 11.5 Can buccal fat pad removal be combined with other procedures?
- 12 References
About Buccal Fat Pad Removal
Buccal fat pad removal is a cosmetic surgery involving the excision of the buccal fat pads located in the lower cheeks. These pads are naturally occurring tissue deposits that provide volume to the face. (1) However, for some individuals, these pads may contribute to a rounder, less defined facial shape. Buccal fat pad removal aims to create greater facial symmetry and enhance the appearance of cheekbones.
People often seek buccal fat removal when they are dissatisfied with the fullness of their faces or if they desire a more chiseled look. Genetics, aging, and weight changes can all influence the presence of buccal fat pads. Regardless, many patients find themselves more confident and satisfied with their appearance after surgery.
Buccal fat pad removal has also significantly grown in popularity in the last few years, becoming a major beauty trend for celebrities. Removing these fat pads effectively sculpts sharp, attractive cheekbones and jawlines, giving patients confidence in their bodies and allowing them to live with attractive and stunning facial features.
Benefits
Undergoing a procedure to remove buccal fat pads offers multiple advantages for one’s self-image. When patients receive personalized treatment from Dr. Zarrabi, they will typically experience benefits like:
- Enhanced facial aesthetics: Patients often experience improved definition of the facial structure, particularly around the cheeks and jawline.
- Increased confidence: Many individuals feel an increase in self-esteem and confidence due to their new facial appearance.
- Long-lasting results: Once the buccal fat pads are removed, the results tend to be permanent, providing a lasting impact on facial contour.
- Minimal scarring: Incisions made inside the mouth lead to inconspicuous scarring as they heal without being externally visible.
- Quick recovery time: This minimally invasive procedure typically results in shorter recovery periods compared to more extensive facial surgeries.
- Improved facial symmetry: Patients often enjoy enhanced symmetry once excess fat is removed, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing profile.
- Procedural versatility: Buccal fat removal can be combined with other facial cosmetic procedures, such as chin augmentation or rhinoplasty, for comprehensive facial enhancement.
- Tailored results: Each procedure can be customized according to the patient’s specific needs and goals, ensuring personalized care and outcomes.
Candidates
Candidates for buccal fat pad removal may include individuals who have excessive fullness in the cheeks and a desire for a more sculpted and contoured facial appearance. Patients should also be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. Not having any underlying skin conditions or major medical issues that could impede healing or increase risks is also important. A consultation with Dr. Zarrabi can determine whether you are an ideal candidate for this procedure and what tailored approach would best meet your goals.
Personal Consultation
The first step in considering buccal fat pad removal is to schedule a personal consultation at Zarrabi Plastic Surgery. During this consultation, Dr. Zarrabi will review your medical history, discuss your aesthetic concerns, and evaluate the structure of your face. This examination will focus on the amount of buccal fat present and its impact on your overall appearance. Your input regarding your desired outcome will help establish a personalized surgical plan.
Preparation
Once your surgery date is scheduled, you will receive thorough preoperative instructions, which may include discontinuing blood thinners and certain supplements that may increase bleeding, avoiding nicotine products to promote optimal healing, filling prescriptions for pain management and antibiotics before the procedure, arranging transportation to and from Zarrabi Plastic Surgery to ensure safety post-operation, and taking sufficient time off work to allow for rest and recovery following the procedure. We recommend that patients sleep on their back with their heads elevated a few weeks before their treatment. Following all preparation guidelines carefully will contribute significantly to a smooth surgical experience and satisfactory outcome.
Procedure
On the day of surgery, your procedure will begin with Dr. Zarrabi administering local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process. Small incisions will be made inside the mouth, approximately at the area where the inner cheek meets the gum. (2) Because incisions are made through the mouth, external scarring is not an issue with this procedure. The buccal fat pads can be removed with either standard surgical techniques or with endoscopic probes. Surgical techniques involve making incisions inside the mouth (buccal cavity) to reach the buccal fat pads. Surgeons typically use local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. When removing buccal fat pads endoscopically, the incisions made will be much smaller, and recovery times will be much faster. Both techniques are effective in removing excess fat and achieving enhanced facial contours. (2) After the desired amount of fat has been excised, the incisions will be closed using dissolvable sutures, promoting straightforward recovery. Overall, the procedure usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, making it a quick and efficient option for facial enhancement.
Recovery
After buccal fat pad removal, patients may experience some swelling and/or discomfort, such as bruising and soreness. Most patients will receive antibiotics and pain management prescriptions, which should be taken as instructed. When resting, it is important to lie on your back with your head elevated to prevent blood and other fluids from pooling in unwanted areas. It is also recommended that patients consume a liquid or soft food diet during their recovery to avoid irritating their incisions. Most patients can return to normal activities within one week, but more strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks.
Results
Patients usually notice immediate changes in their facial contour after the procedure but can enjoy the final results over the next few weeks as swelling subsides. Swelling may be significant enough to not only hide results but create an appearance with more fullness than a patient had before treatment. This is a natural part of healing and will subside. Once swelling dissipates, patients can enjoy sharper facial contours and prominent cheekbones, all contributing to an attractive and confident appearance. Full facial symmetry and rejuvenation will become apparent, providing a refined appearance that boosts confidence.
Corresponding Procedures
Facial contouring and rejuvenation procedures are hallmarks of plastic surgery. As such, many other treatments can be incorporated into your buccal fat pad removal to help you look like your most attractive self. One of the most common facial rejuvenation procedures is the facelift, also known as rhytidectomy. As we age, the effects of gravity, pollution, hormonal shifts, weight fluctuations, stress, and more all manifest on our faces through fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and sagging skin. A facelift can effectively remove excess skin and tighten facial muscles, leaving patients with a youthful appearance and bright, colorful complexion. These techniques can also be applied in brow lifts and neck lifts.
Patients can also include a facial fat transfer in their buccal fat removal. In a fat transfer, fat is harvested from a donor site elsewhere on the body, like the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, or other, processed, and then used to replace lost mass in the face. This is especially effective for treating parts of the upper face, like the eyes and forehead, which often form a sunken, wrinkly appearance due to a loss of body fat and skin tension. Overall, combining treatments is an effective way to save money, reduce your recovery time, and enhance the results of your procedures.
Cost of Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Los Angeles
The cost of buccal fat pad removal can vary based on several factors, including the technique used, facility fees, and personalized requirements. A detailed estimate will be provided after you consult with Dr. Zarrabi, allowing you to understand the financial commitment involved in attaining your desired results. Zarrabi Plastic Surgery also offers financing plans for our treatments. Our personalized payment plans can help make your treatment more accessible. Schedule your consultation appointment today to begin your facial contouring journey! If you have any further questions regarding procedures, payments, pricing, preparation, or anything else, please call (310) 584-9990 to reach our Beverly Hills or Santa Monica offices.
FAQ
What is the average recovery time for buccal fat pad removal?
Most patients recover within a week, though individual experiences may vary. Swelling and discomfort usually decrease within a few days.
Does buccal fat pad removal leave visible scarring?
No, the incisions are made inside the mouth, which minimizes any visible scarring.
How long do the results of buccal fat pad removal last?
Results are generally permanent, providing long-lasting facial contouring benefits.
Are there any risks associated with buccal fat pad removal?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, nerve injury, excessive swelling, and dissatisfaction with results. Discussing these risks openly with Dr. Zarrabi can prepare you for a successful outcome.
Can buccal fat pad removal be combined with other procedures?
Yes, many patients decide to combine this procedure with others, such as liposuction or chin augmentation, for comprehensive facial enhancement.
References
- Moura LB, Spin JR, Spin-Neto R, Pereira-Filho VA. Buccal fat pad removal to improve facial aesthetics: an established technique? Medicina Oral, Patología Oral y Cirugía Bucal. 2018;23(4):e478-e484. doi:https://doi.org/10.4317/medoral.22449
- Weniger FG, Weidman AA. The Buccal Fat Pad. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2019;7(7):e2328. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000002328