Buccal fat removal is the procedure in which the buccal fat pads are partially excised. These pads are located in the deeper part of the cheeks and are responsible for the rounded appearance of the face. During the surgery, typically no more than 80% of the content of the pad is removed.
The procedure is outpatient, has a quick recovery time, and aims to better contour the face.
There are many myths regarding this surgery; however, most of them are not true. Like any other procedure, it is only indicated for certain patients, primarily those with round faces who wish to sculpt their features. The support of the face is provided by ligaments that maintain the structures in place. This localized fat does not contribute to facial support and is not directly related to facial sagging, which typically occurs proportionally with the passage of time.
At Majestic Plastic Surgery, we believe that the final outcome is largely determined by the surgeon’s concept of beauty. At Majestic, the blend of two concepts, feminine and masculine, and the presence of two surgeons in the same procedure guarantees a superior perspective of body harmony, with reduced surgical time and unparalleled support, achieving exceptional results.
When is it indicated?
This procedure is indicated for patients who:
- Who desire to improve the aesthetic appearance of their face
- Have a round face that they wish to contour.
How is it performed?
It is important to always conduct a pre-surgical consultation to determine the patient’s requirements, expectations, and conditions before the procedure. After this, the surgical intervention is performed with complete asepsis and antisepsis. An incision is made on the inner cheek, inside the mouth, and dissection is done until the buccal fat pad is located. Approximately 70% of the fat is extracted, ensuring there is no bleeding before concluding the procedure.
PRE-SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS
- Do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or diclofenac, as these can affect blood clotting and may increase bleeding during your surgery. If you experience any pain, you may only take acetaminophen.
- Please notify us if you are taking any herbal medications, vitamins, or natural supplements, as some may cause complications during your surgery. Ideally, discontinue them at least one week before the procedure (e.g., Ginkgo biloba, Omega-3, multivitamins).
- If you have a common cold, injury, or any other condition during this period, please notify us.
- Smoking can affect your healing process, please stop smoking at least 15 days before the procedure.
- One week before surgery, you should attend a pre-anesthesia assessment so that the anesthesiologist can clarify any questions regarding the type of anesthesia to be used and sign the necessary consent forms.
- You should meet with us to clarify any questions regarding the procedure and define the size of any implants.
POST-SURGERY INSTRUCTIONS
- Apply cold compresses to the cheeks after the procedure to reduce inflammation and potential bruising.
- It is normal to notice that the area is more swollen the day after the procedure and that your cheeks may feel “hard.” These symptoms will subside in about 7-10 days, possibly sooner. One cheek may feel firmer than the other.
- Keep your head elevated during the first two days – semi-sitting position.
- It is normal for the face to remain swollen for several weeks, so results will not be evident until about a month later when the face has returned to its normal appearance.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash every 2 hours on the first day, then 3 times a day, especially after eating.
- On the day of the procedure, your diet should be liquid. After that, you can return to your normal eating habits.
- The local anesthetic effect will take about 3 hours to wear off. During this time, be cautious with hot or cold foods and beverages. Afterward, consume cold drinks and foods to reduce inflammation.
- Following the surgical intervention, you will need to wear a compression bandage for a week. The main function of this bandage is to reduce the appearance of bruising and inflammation in the facial region.
- Avoid sun exposure for at least one week after the procedure.
- Take prescribed medications (mandatory antibiotic intake!).
- Do not engage in exercise during the first week post-surgery, and you may return to work after 2-3 days.
- Remember to attend the scheduled follow-up appointment at the clinic.
- For any questions, it is best to contact the available staff.
