Pros and cons of buccal fat removal

If you have round, plump, or chubby cheeks, you may be feeling too self-conscious about your facial appearance. Some people are happy with the layer of fat above the cheekbones, but if the fat extends to the lower cheeks and jaw line, it can affect your self-esteem.

Fortunately, there are several options available to slim down 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 in an outpatient center and can be completed in less than an hour. You will receive local anesthesia to reduce the sensation of pain as 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 bulges through the incision and he or she can remove it with forceps. 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 in a few weeks to 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 can reduce the size of their cheeks when losing weight, others don’t see a noticeable change in their facial appearance after weight loss because fat 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 want 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 can 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.