Buccal fat removal: What to know about cheek reduction surgery and nonsurgical ways to lose facial fat

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure designed to remove fat from the lower part of the cheeks, creating a more defined look. It's an increasingly popular option for those who want to slim down their cheeks or reduce fullness in their face.

But before you consider surgery, it's important to understand how the procedure works and the potential risks involved. You may also want to explore nonsurgical ways to reduce facial fat.

What is buccal fat?

Buccal fat is the layer of fat located between your cheekbones and jawline, giving your face its natural fullness. Everyone has buccal fat, but the amount can vary from person to person. Some people naturally have fuller cheeks, while others have more defined or slimmer faces. Factors like genetics, age, and body weight can all affect how much buccal fat you have.

While buccal fat can provide a youthful appearance, too much of it may give the face a rounder or puffier look. People who opt for buccal fat removal surgery often want a more defined look, particularly in the lower part of the face. It's especially popular among those who feel their face looks too round or chubby, even if they are at a healthy body weight.

Surgery to remove buccal fat

Buccal fat removal surgery is a cosmetic procedure during which a surgeon removes a portion of the fat pads in the lower cheeks. The surgery is typically done under local anesthesia, although intravenous or general anesthesia can also be used. The surgeon makes a small incision inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars. He or she removes just enough fat to slim the face without making it look too hollow or gaunt.

The surgery usually takes less than an hour, and most people can go home the same day. After buccal fat removal surgery, your doctor may recommend sticking to a liquid diet for several days or more. They might also give you instructions on using special mouth rinses to help lower the risk of infection.

Recovery from buccal fat removal is fairly quick, typically about two to three weeks. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or discomfort in the days following the procedure, but this usually goes away within a week or two. Full results are visible once the swelling has completely gone down, which may take several months.

Risks and complications of surgical buccal fat removal

As with any surgery, buccal fat removal comes with risks and potential complications. These can include:

Infection. Any time you have surgery, there's a risk of infection. Proper care, such as using a special medicated mouth rinse after surgery, can help lower this risk.

Bleeding. Though rare, some people may experience bleeding during or after the procedure.

Nerve damage. There is a small risk of damaging the facial nerves, which could lead to temporary or permanent numbness in the cheeks.

Overcorrection. Removing too much buccal fat can result in a hollow or sunken appearance, especially as you age and naturally lose fat in the face.

Facial asymmetry. Buccal fat pads on both sides of the face are not always the same size. Even with careful planning, a surgeon might remove too much fat from one side, leading to an uneven or distorted appearance.

Because of these risks, it's important to consult with an experienced surgeon who has performed many buccal fat removal surgeries. The doctor should evaluate your facial structure to determine if you're a good candidate for the procedure.

Nonsurgical ways to reduce face fat

If you're not ready to consider surgery, or want to explore nonsurgical ways to reduce facial fat, there are a few options you can try:

• Cosmetic treatments: Dermatologists can use heat, cooling, or injections to target fat cells in the face, offering alternatives to surgery. While these options can help reduce fat, the results will be less dramatic compared to surgical procedures.
• Diet and exercise: If you're carrying extra weight, losing body fat can naturally slim down your face. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce overall fat, including in the face. Keep in mind, however, that you can't spot-reduce fat from specific areas of the body.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for your health and can be helpful if you're trying to reduce facial fat. Research shows that drinking water can help you feel fuller and support weight loss efforts.
• Adequate sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for weight loss, which can help reduce facial fat. Lack of sleep raises cortisol levels, which can increase appetite and lead to weight gain. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night to support weight management.
• Facial exercises: While the effectiveness of facial exercises is still debated and continues to be investigated, some believe that targeted exercises can help tone the muscles in your face and reduce fat.