AESTHETIC NEWS
Chrissy Teigen has openly acknowledged having buccal fat removal, while other celebrities like Lea Michele, Sophie Turner, and Amelia Hamlin are rumored to have had it. It seems to be sweeping through Hollywood like wildfire during the past few years, perhaps contributing to the surge in demand for the procedure at plastic surgery clinics across the country. But what exactly is buccal fat removal, and which faces is it most likely to have a flattering effect on?
Everyone has buccal (pronounce it like “buckle”) fat. It’s a pad of fat wedged between the cheekbones and the jaw. Your buccal fat plays a significant role in determining the shape and overall look of your face. Although everyone has some buccal fat, some people have more than others. Even if you are in good shape, your face might make you seem heavier than you really are.
People who are dissatisfied with their face shape and feel that their face is too chubby might talk to a plastic surgeon about buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery.
Buccal fat removal is certainly popular right now. However, the decision to have any type of cosmetic surgery should never be taken lightly. It’s important to be sure that you’re undergoing the procedure for yourself, not because of a trend or for someone else. Assuming that’s the case, you may be a good candidate for buccal fat removal if the following apply:
Note that only a qualified plastic surgeon can determine for certain if you’re a good candidate for cosmetic surgery.
Unlike many surgeries, buccal fat removal procedures can be performed under local anesthesia and light sedation, rather than general anesthesia. The incisions will be made from inside the mouth, which means you won’t have to worry about any visible scarring. The plastic surgeon will remove as much of the fat pads as necessary to achieve the desired result. As a general rule of thumb, it’s ideal to be conservative. If too much of the buccal fat is removed, then there is a risk of looking gaunt later in life as facial volume naturally declines.
After the procedure, most patients can return to work after one week, although strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two weeks. Most people only have minor swelling and bruising; however, it may take up to a month for the swelling to fully resolve.
Craving well-defined cheek contours? It’s important to consult a board-certified surgeon who prioritizes patient health and safety, such as Dr. Thomas Loeb. With many years of clinical experience and a long track record of happy patients, Dr. Loeb is the top choice for buccal fat removal in New York City. Schedule a consultation at our Manhattan office today and find out if this cosmetic procedure could be a good fit for your aesthetic goals.
