American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 

Buccal Fat Removal

Cheek Reduction

The goal of buccal fat removal surgery is to thin the cheeks, specifically in the area of the cheek hollows.

What are the steps of a buccal fat removal procedure?

A buccal fat removal procedure includes the following steps:

Step 1 – Anesthesia

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

Step 2 – The incision

A buccal fat removal surgery requires an incision on the inside of the mouth, on the inner portion of your cheek. Occasionally, the buccal fat pad may be removed during a facelift and not necessitate an incision inside the mouth.

Step 3 – Closing the incisions

Sutures close the incisions inside your mouth. Typically, these sutures are absorbable, but each plastic surgeon performs the surgery differently. Be sure to avoid playing with the sutures with your tongue until cleared by your surgeon.

Step 4 – See the results

Your buccal fat removal surgery will result in a slimmer, more contoured cheek, specifically in the cheek hollow area.



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