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Buccal fat removal addresses the unwanted deep fat of the face improving facial contour and proportions. It is a gentle, precise and tissue-sparing procedure for facial contouring and rejuvenation. The surgery is effective for improving facial proportions, soft-tissue asymmetries and age-related lower facial heaviness.
Flat cheek-bones can be built out with cheek implants. Vaser liposuction can also be used for additional face and neck contouring.
Facial fat is composed of multiple fat compartments, arranged in deep and superficial layers. They are separated by connective tissue, forming well-defined anatomical units - known as ‘fat pads’. Their function is to provide insulation and structural support throughout the facial soft-tissues.
The adipose compartments change throughout life, some are prone to deflation (fat atrophy), whilst others may gain in volume (fat hypertrophy). These volumetric changes are reflected in the contours of the face and will determine how individual regions develop with ageing.
The buccal fat pad is a deep fat compartment that extends from the upper mid-face to the lower face (next to the mouth). Due to the elongated shape, it is prone to a downward volume-shift within the compartment. This may result in fat accumulation and potentially a bulge in the lower cheek, next to the mouth.
30 minutes
Local
Daycase
3 - 7 days
Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness
Infection, asymmetry, bleeding, permanent numbness, nerve damage
1 week, 3 months (after surgery)
1 week
2 weeks post-op - walking, 4 weeks post-op - everything
12 weeks until final result
No visible scar
Buccal fat removal is generally a very safe procedure - it is minimally invasive and can be performed under local anaesthetic, reducing the associated risks with general anaesthetic. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should call the clinic straight away:
Yes, the buccal fat pad is physically removed (excised) and the cells do not grow back.
If you're concerned about fuller lower cheeks, the best age to get the fat removed is between the ages of 23 and 35. This is when your skin has enough elasticity to adapt smoothly to the reduced volume. Facial baby fat naturally thins out during the teens and early twenties, so removing the buccal pads before this process is complete can lead to gauntness later on.
If you are a prospective patient, please download the informed consent form below. This includes information about the treatment, potential risks and contraindications.
