
Many people are choosingbuccal fat pad removal, or bichectomy, to slim down their face. This surgery is done to make the cheeks look thinner. It removes the fatty tissues in the cheeks, called Bichat’s fat buccal fat pads.
The surgery is done under local anesthesia. An incision is made inside the mouth to hide any scars. It’s a quick procedure, lasting about 30-45 minutes. Knowing about buccal fat pad removal helps people decide if it’s right for them.
Key Takeaways
- Buccal fat pad removal is a minimally invasive procedure to enhance facial aesthetics.
- The surgery involves removing encapsulated fatty tissues in the cheeks.
- It is performed under local anesthesia with no visible scarring.
- The procedure is relatively quick, lasting around 30-45 minutes.
- Understanding the basics helps individuals make informed decisions.
Understanding Buccal Fat Pads and Their Removal

Deciding to remove buccal fat pads means knowing a lot about them. These pads are key to the look of the mid-to-lower cheeks. Buccal fat anatomy is complex, with fat in the cheeks affecting how we look.
What Are Buccal Fat Pads?
Buccal fat pads are fat in the cheeks. They are special fat bodies that shape our face, mainly the cheeks. Medical Expert, a plastic surgeon in Los Angeles, says, “Buccal fat is different from other face fat. It bounces back slowly when pushed.” This makes buccal fat unique in facial beauty.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Reduction
Reducing buccal fat pads, or bichectomy, has many beauty benefits. It makes the face look more defined and sculpted. The main perks are a more visible cheekbone and a slimmer face. Buccal fat removal can give a chiseled look that many like.
The surgery is usually safe, with few complications. Studies show it works well for those wanting to shape their face. It’s a popular choice for facial contouring.
Ideal Candidates for Bichectomy
Good candidates for buccal fat pad reduction have big buccal fat pads and flexible skin. People thinking about bichat surgery need to know what to expect. We check the face and talk about goals during a consultation to see if it’s right.
Knowing about buccal fat pads and their removal helps people choose wisely for their face. Whether it’s for a sharper cheekbone or a slimmer face, removing buccal fat can help achieve these looks.
The Buccal Pad Removal Procedure

Understanding the buccal fat removal procedure is key for those thinking about it. It includes several steps, from the first meeting to aftercare.
Pre-Surgical Consultation and Planning
Before buccal fat pad surgery, a detailed meeting with a skilled surgeon is needed. We look at your face and talk about what you want. This helps us decide if the surgery is right for you and how to do it.
A good consultation is key for a successful surgery, says Medical organization.
Step-by-Step Buccal Fat Removal Process
The buccal fat removal process starts with a small cut inside the mouth. Then, we take out the fat you want. Medical Expert, “The surgeon usually takes most of the fat to avoid looking too thin.”
Anesthesia Options and Procedure Duration
The buccal fat removal procedure is done under local anesthesia. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A study found that on average, 2.74 plus or minus 0.69 milliliters of tissue is removed.
Potential Risks and Complications
Buccal lipectomy is mostly safe, but risks exist. These include infection, unevenness, and harm to nearby areas. It’s important to know these risks and talk about them with your surgeon.
Knowing about the buccal fat removal procedure and its risks helps you make a good choice. We make sure our patients are well-informed and ready for the surgery and recovery.
Recovery and Results
The recovery after removing the buccal fat pad is usually easy. Most people feel little pain and can go back to their usual life in a few days. It’s important to avoid hard work, eat soft foods, and keep your mouth clean for a smooth recovery.
It takes a few weeks to see the full results of buccal fat removal. Medical Expert, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, says removing too much can cause shadows on the face. Knowing what to expect during recovery and after surgery helps prepare you. Looking at before and after photos can also help set realistic goals for your buccal fat reduction.
FAQ
What is buccal fat pad removal?
This is a surgery to remove the fatty tissues in the cheeks. It’s done to make your face look more defined and sculpted.
Where are buccal fat pads located?
They are in the mid-to-lower cheeks. They affect how your face looks.
What are the benefits of buccal fat pad reduction?
It makes your cheekbones look more prominent. It also makes your face look slimmer. This improves how your face looks.
Who is an ideal candidate for bichectomy?
People with big buccal fat pads and good skin are best. They should also have a good elasticity in their skin.
How is the buccal fat removal procedure performed?
A small incision is made inside the mouth. Then, the fatty tissue is accessed and removed. This is done under local anesthesia.
How long does the buccal fat removal procedure take?
It usually takes 30-45 minutes to do.
What are the possible risks and complications of buccal fat pad removal?
Risks include infection, unevenness, and damage to nearby areas.
What is the recovery process like after buccal fat pad removal?
Recovery is easy. Most people feel little pain. They should avoid hard work, eat soft foods, and brush their teeth well.
When are the final results of buccal fat pad removal visible?
Results are seen after a few weeks. This is when the swelling goes down.
What is buccal fat pad anatomy?
It’s about the structure and where the buccal fat pads are. These are fatty tissues in the cheeks that shape your face.
References
National Center for Biotechnology Information. Evidence-Based Medical Guidance. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6051676/