The buccal fat pad (also called Bichat’s fat) is an encapsulated fat mass located in the hollow area beneath the cheekbones, between the buccinator and masseter muscles. It adds volume to the deep facial compartments and acts as a gliding pad during mastication. The size of the buccal fat pad varies in each individual. In some, its volume increases considerably, to the point of filling the cheek depression that is so characteristic of youth. Such a person may find that their face looks too full or chubby.

Cheek fat removal or buccal lipectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the buccal fat pad. This operation aims to accentuate the hollow area under the cheeks and create a slimmer, more defined cheek contour. Although buccal lipectomy is a relatively safe procedure, it should always be performed by an experienced surgeon to avoid complications. The operation consists of making small incisions on the inside of the cheeks to extract the fat pads. It is an outpatient surgery that is performed under local anesthesia and with or without mild sedation.

The patient must take into account several aspects if he or she is considering buccal fat removal:

It is crucial to be very conservative with the amount of fat removed.

This point is especially true in patients with thin, narrow faces. Excessive removal of fat may result in unnatural results or a gaunt appearance.

Results are not seen immediately.

Due to the inflammation in the operated area, it is necessary to wait two to three months to appreciate the results.

Asoft diet is vital during the first week. 

Mouth rinses are also essential to reduce the risk of infection. Although you may feel a bit sore in your mouth, recovery is not very painful.

At ArteFacial, we will assess whether you are a good candidate for cheek fat removal. Our goal is that each patient undergoes a swift recovery and receives the best aesthetic outcome.