Buccal Fat Pad Excision

Buccal fat pads refer to the fat found in the hollow of your face just under the cheek bones. The size varies from person to person and can have a dramatic effect on the shape of your face. Persons looking for a more slender and contoured face shape may decide to undergo Buccal fad pad excision surgery. To learn more read on.

What is Buccal Fat Pad Excision?

Buccal fat pad excision is a type of facial plastic surgery. During the surgery, the buccal pads are removed. Once removed, your cheeks will be more slender and a more defined facial contour will remain. The surgery is permanent and the return or re-growth of the buccal fat pads even with weight gain is very unlikely. However, buccal fat pad excision is not for every face, so a consultation to understand your goals and an assessment of facial shape, size, and the integrity of the skin are important for your surgeon.

The Treatment

Surgery is performed under local anesthetic so you won’t feel any pain, but you will be awake during the procedure. A small incision is made on the inside of the cheek. Pressure will be applied to the outside of the cheek further exposing the buccal fat pad in view inside the cheek. The surgeon will remove the buccal fat by cutting it out and dissolvable stitches will be placed for you. In the immediate days to follow, you will be recommended a special mouthwash to protect the incisions from any infection. A liquid diet will be advised for several days before returning to soft foods. Bruising and swelling are normal and may occur. A full recovery takes approximately 3 weeks