Understanding The Buccal Fat Pad Removal Procedure
Buccal Fat Pad Removal is a cosmetic procedure designed to address chubby cheeks. This surgical intervention targets the cheek fat, removing it to sculpt a more chiseled appearance. It’s crucial for individuals to set realistic aesthetic goals prior to undergoing this procedure, although the changes can be significantly dramatic.
The procedure itself is straightforward, encompassing a three-step process. The following sections will delve into these steps, providing insight into the journey towards a more sculpted facial profile.
1 – Applying The Anesthesia
Before the surgery, it is essential for the patient to be sedated. Depending on individual circumstances and the extent of the procedure, the doctor may opt for IV sedation or general anesthesia. General anesthesia is often the preferred choice when multiple procedures are scheduled to be performed simultaneously.
2 – Removing The Buccal Fat Pads
The plastic surgeon initiates the procedure with a precise incision inside the mouth, in the vicinity of the cheek. Through this opening, the fatty tissue constituting the buccal fat pads is carefully excised.
In instances where a facelift surgery is being performed concurrently, it may allow for the buccal fat to be accessed and removed without the need for separate buccal incisions.
3 – Closing the Incisions
Upon the successful removal of the buccal fat pads, the surgeon proceeds to suture the incisions. These sutures are dissolvable, promoting a smoother and less cumbersome recovery process for the patient.
Buccal Fat Removal vs Cheek Lipo
Buccal fat removal and cheek liposuction are both facial contouring procedures designed to address excess fatty tissue in the cheek area, enhancing the facial profile. They are generally performed as outpatient procedures, which allows for a return home on the same day of the surgery.
The key difference lies in the technique and the ideal candidate for each procedure. Buccal fat removal is a surgical method that directly removes the fat pads from the cheeks to create a more defined appearance. In contrast, cheek liposuction uses a cannula and vacuum to suction out fat, which is best suited for individuals with good skin elasticity. This is an important consideration because liposuction relies on the skin to contract smoothly after the procedure for optimal results.
Neither procedure is likely to leave visible scarring; buccal fat removal incisions are hidden inside the mouth, and liposuction incisions are small and discreet. When deciding between the two, skin elasticity should be a deciding factor. Those without the necessary skin tightness may find buccal fat removal to be the more appropriate option to achieve their desired aesthetic goals.
Buccal Fat Removal Real-Life Patients
* All patients are unique and individual results may vary.
Buccal Fat Removal vs Kybella Injectable Treatment
When considering options for reducing facial fat, buccal fat removal and Kybella are two distinct procedures with different approaches. Kybella is an injectable treatment specifically designed to dissolve fat cells. Like buccal fat removal, it is considered a permanent procedure because the fat cells, once dissolved, do not regenerate. Both treatments offer the advantage of leaving no visible scars.
However, Kybella is an FDA-approved technique, but its use is restricted to double chin removal. It is not intended for use in other areas of the face. This is a critical consideration for patients, as the active ingredient in Kybella could potentially migrate and affect surrounding tissues or nerves adversely if used outside the approved under-chin area.
For those looking to reduce cheek fat specifically, the surgical procedure of buccal fat removal is the preferred method. It directly removes fat pads from the cheeks, which is not something Kybella can address safely.
Buccal Fat Removal vs Masseter Botox
Masseter Botox and buccal fat removal are two cosmetic procedures that cater to different aesthetic concerns and areas of the face. Masseter Botox is primarily a jawline slimming treatment. By injecting Botox into the masseter muscle, the muscle relaxes, which can alleviate symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders) and simultaneously refine the jawline for a more slender, feminine, and elegant appearance.
On the other hand, buccal fat removal is focused on the cheek area, aiming to reduce the volume of the cheeks for a more contoured and sculpted look. This procedure does not affect the jawline muscles but instead removes fat pads to redefine the mid-face.
These procedures do not compete with each other; instead, they complement each other. So, for individuals looking to achieve a more comprehensive facial refinement, combining both procedures can be an effective approach to enhance overall results.
How To Choose The Correct Aesthetic Treatment For You
Choosing the right aesthetic treatment is a decision that should be made through a person-to-person consultation with a skillful plastic surgeon. When it comes to facial plastic surgery or non-surgical procedures, a surgeon with expertise and experience offers invaluable expert guidance, helping to tailor the procedure to your unique facial structure, aesthetic desires, and health considerations, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
For this, working with an experienced physician like Dr. Kirk Lozada can make all the difference. As a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Lozada brings a wealth of knowledge and a refined artistic touch to both cosmetic surgery and non-surgical procedures. His specialization in enhancing facial features is backed by years of dedicated practice and a deep understanding of facial aesthetics.
Call us or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lozada and explore the possibilities for your aesthetic enhancement.