What is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
Buccal fat removal reduces a portion of the deep fat pad of the lower cheek. Because facial volume naturally decreases with age, aggressive removal can produce premature hollowing.
What this procedure may address
- Persistent lower-cheek fullness despite stable weight
- Facial proportion concerns attributable to the buccal fat pad
- Selected asymmetry
What patients need to understand
Not every round face is caused by buccal fat. Bone structure, superficial fat, muscle and overall weight affect facial shape. Conservative selection matters more than chasing a fashionable hollow-cheek appearance.
Assessment and planning
Assessment considers age, facial structure, existing hollows, weight stability and family patterns of facial ageing. Incisions are placed inside the mouth.
Recovery
Cheek swelling is expected and can initially make the face look fuller. A modified diet and oral care may be required during early healing. Final contour develops over several months.
Individual postoperative instructions take priority over general timelines published online.
Risks and limitations
The proposed benefits must be weighed against risks that include:
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Infection
- Anaesthetic complications
- Poor wound healing or unfavourable scarring
- Asymmetry or contour irregularity
- Altered sensation or numbness
- Persistent pain or swelling
- An unsatisfactory result or need for revision surgery
- Injury to nearby nerves, vessels or deeper structures
- Skin or soft-tissue injury
- Injury to a salivary duct
- Facial nerve injury
- Excessive hollowing that becomes more apparent with age
This list is not exhaustive. The risks relevant to the proposed treatment are discussed during consultation and again before informed consent.
Related information
Consultation with Dr. Elahi
A consultation with Dr. Elahi is an assessment of anatomy, goals, alternatives, scars, recovery, risk and whether treatment is appropriate. It does not create an obligation to proceed.
What Are the Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
The benefits of buccal fat pad removal include achieving a more sculpted and defined facial contour, particularly in the cheek area. This procedure can reduce the appearance of overly round or chubby cheeks, resulting in a slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing facial appearance.
Who Are the Best Candidates For Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
The best candidates for buccal fat pad removal are individuals bothered by excessive fullness in the cheeks despite being at a healthy weight. Ideal candidates should have realistic expectations and desire a more sculpted facial appearance. They should also be in good overall health with stable facial anatomy.
Why Choose Buccal Fat Pad Removal Surgery with Us?
A patient should choose to undergo buccal fat pad removal with Dr. Mohammed Elahi due to his exceptional expertise and precision in facial contouring procedures. Dr. Elahi’s meticulous approach ensures that excess buccal fat is effectively removed to enhance cheekbone definition and create a more sculpted, youthful facial appearance. His commitment to patient care, personalized treatment plans, and use of advanced surgical techniques result in minimal scarring and a smooth recovery process, making him a highly trusted and respected surgeon for achieving natural-looking outcomes.
A consultation with Dr. Elahi is an assessment of anatomy, goals, alternatives, scars, recovery, risk and whether treatment is appropriate. It does not create an obligation to proceed.
Risks and Side Effects
While buccal fat pad removal with Dr. Mohammed Elahi can significantly improve facial contours, patients should be aware of potential risks and consequences, including swelling, bruising, pain, infection, and asymmetry. There is also a risk of complications such as hematoma, poor wound healing, or changes in sensation, although these are minimized under Dr. Elahi’s expert care. Adhering to post-operative care instructions is crucial to reduce these risks.
Duration of Results
The results of buccal fat pad removal are typically long-lasting, providing enhanced facial definition and a more refined appearance for many years, although natural aging processes will continue to affect facial tissues over time.
See for yourself!
Visit our before and after gallery.
Recovery After Buccal Fat Pad Removal
The recovery time for buccal fat pad removal generally follows this timeline:
1. Initial Days Post-Surgery:
- Patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the cheek area. Pain can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers. Cold compresses may help reduce swelling. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities.
2. First Week:
- Swelling and bruising will start to subside. Many patients can return to light activities and work within a week, depending on their job and individual healing process. Patients should avoid vigorous activities and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
3. Weeks 2-3:
- Swelling and bruising continue to decrease significantly. Most patients feel more comfortable resuming normal activities, but should still avoid strenuous exercise and activities that could impact the healing cheeks.
4. WEEKS 4-6:
- Most of the swelling should have resolved, and the results of the procedure will start to become more apparent. Patients can typically return to their regular exercise routines and more demanding physical activities.
5. 3-6 MONTHS:
- Full recovery is generally achieved within this period, with the final results becoming more evident as any residual swelling completely subsides and the cheeks settle into their new contour.
Following Dr. Elahi's specific post-operative care instructions, attending all follow-up appointments, and maintaining good oral hygiene are crucial for a smooth recovery and optimal results. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor the healing process and address any concerns.