If you have round, plump, or plump cheeks, you may feel too self-conscious about your facial appearance. Some people are happy with the layer of fat above the cheekbones, but if the fat spreads to the lower cheeks and jawline, it can affect your self-esteem.
Fortunately, there are several options available to slim your facial features and create a more defined and sculpted appearance. Buccal fat removal procedures help reduce the size of the cheeks by getting rid of excess fatty tissue. This creates a more defined face and can even give your self-esteem a boost.
Here’s a close look at the benefits and drawbacks of buccal fat removal procedures:
How buccal fat removal works
Buccal fat removal procedures are typically performed in a cosmetic surgeon’s office or outpatient facility and can be completed in less than an hour. You will receive local anesthesia to reduce the sensation of pain because the surgeon will create a long incision between your cheek and gums. The surgeon removes the fat by gently applying pressure under the cheekbone; the fat protrudes through the incision and he or she can remove it with tweezers. If there is an excessive amount of fat around the jawline, the surgeon may also use mini liposuction to remove the fat from the tissue.
After removing the appropriate amount of fat, the surgeon closes the incisions and wraps the face in bandages. You will have a scar at the incision site, but it will heal over a few weeks and months and will be less noticeable.
Key Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal can be a valuable alternative to facial liposuction and, in some cases, offers dramatic results. While some people are able to reduce the size of their cheeks by losing weight, others don’t see a noticeable change in their facial appearance after weight loss because fatty tissue has become a persistent deposit that gets trapped under the skin. Buccal fat removal offers benefits for:
- Individuals who are of average weight and desire a more contoured appearance
- Improve appearance without extensive surgery
- Creating a more sculpted and defined appearance.
- Increased self-esteem
- Creating a more mature look.
- Disadvantages of buccal fat removal
While buccal fat removal procedures offer several benefits, there are some risks and side effects associated with the surgery. These include:
- Risk of excessive scarring
- Risk of infection (common with any type of surgery)
- Unbalanced Appearance – If the surgeon removes too much or too little fat, the face may appear unbalanced.
- Risk of damage to surrounding tissues: This risk is increased if the surgeon uses facial liposuction as part of the procedure.
- Slow healing time – Depending on the type of incision created, you may have a visible scar for several weeks to months after surgery.