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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Zeynep Sevim, on May 05, 2023

Buccal Fat Removal Recovery Time

After the procedure, you can expect a recovery period of several days to a few weeks, depending on your healing rates and the extent of the surgery.

In the first few days after the procedure, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the cheek area. Pain medication and ice packs can help manage these symptoms. Avoid strenuous activity and rest as much as possible during this time.

After about a week, you can resume normal activities, including work and exercise. However, avoid activities that may cause excessive strain on the cheeks for a few more weeks. 

Follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions closely and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery and ensure proper healing.

What is The Alternative for Buccal Fat Removal Procedure?

There are several alternatives to Buccal Fat Removal Procedure, including non-surgical options. Here are some of them:

  1. Facial exercises: Facial exercises can help tone the facial muscles and reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks. These exercises include smiling, puckering the lips, and blowing air into the cheeks.

  2. Weight loss: Losing weight can help reduce the amount of fat in the body, including in the face.

  3. Dermal fillers: Dermal fillers can contour the cheeks and give the appearance of a slimmer face.

  4. Kybella: Kybella is an injectable treatment that dissolves fat in the submental area, which gives the appearance of a double chin.

  5. CoolSculpting: CoolSculpting is a non-invasive treatment that uses cold temperatures to freeze and destroy fat cells. It can be used on the cheeks and other areas of the body.

These alternatives may provide different results than Buccal Fat Removal Procedure, each with benefits and risks. It's always best to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your needs.

How Does Buccal Fat Removal Work?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure involving removing fat pads from the cheeks. Here is an overview of how the procedure works:

Anesthesia: You're given either local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and your preference.

Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision on the inside of the cheek, usually near the molars.

Fat removal: The surgeon then gently applies pressure to the outside of the cheek, pushing the buccal fat pad through the incision. The fat pad is then removed using surgical scissors or a small instrument called a cannula.

Closure: The surgeon closes the incision with dissolvable stitches once the fat pad is removed.

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients can return home the same day.

It's important to note that buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure and comes with risks such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. You should carefully consider the potential benefits and risks before deciding to undergo the procedure and should only work with a qualified and experienced surgeon.

How To Prepare For The Procedure?  

  • Research. Find the best clinic for your procedure. Choosing the right clinic and doctor is crucial for the best results of the procedure. 

  • Look at online testimonials and buccal fat removal before and after pictures for the shortlisted clinics to make sure you have chosen the right clinic.

  • Discuss the buccal fat removal cost and inquire about any packages that you can find. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you remove buccal fat naturally?

You can use face yoga to give your face a contoured appearance however, the results will not be as prominent as with buccal fat removal surgery.

Does buccal fat shrink with weight loss?

Even with weight loss, sometimes the rounded appearance of the face with full cheeks remains unchanged. In other cases, there might be a slight reduction, but not enough for the contoured and chiseled appearance that the buccal fat removal surgery provides.

Is buccal fat painful?

Buccal fat is not painful, and neither is the procedure to remove it. The entire procedure takes less than an hour and is performed under anesthesia, meaning that you will not feel a thing. 

At what age does buccal fat go away?

Buccal fat begins to gradually decrease with age, and the decrease becomes prominent around the age of 50. However, the changes in buccal fat can begin to appear in the 30s.

Does buccal fat removal age you?

No, the buccal fat removal does not age you. In fact, it will improve the appearance of the face instead.