Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal Fat Removal Las Vegas and Henderson, NV

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As you know, we aren’t all born with the perfect facial features. For some, the problem is that the fat pads that lie deep beneath the surface of the skin. This fat, called buccal (pronounce like “buckle”) fat, can create an appearance of weight where it doesn’t belong.

If you recall having childhood nicknames that include “chubby cheeks” or “chipmunk cheeks,” you can probably thank those buccal fat pads that are part of your DNA.

In our Henderson Plastic Surgery office, Dr.  Himansu Shah can do away with your buccal fat for good. The buccal fat pad removal procedure is minimally invasive and efficient in its technique of enhancing the contours of the face.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is the surgical procedure that removes the form-stable fat pads that sit in the hollow of the cheek. This naturally-occurring fat pad varies in size from one person to another and can even vary in size from one side of the face to the other. Because these fat pads are a cohesive accumulation of fatty tissue, removal involves excision rather than liposuction.

Ideal Candidate For Buccal Fat Removal

An adult who notices a chubby appearance where the cheeks should be hollow may be a good candidate for buccal fat removal. Ideal candidates do not smoke and are in good general and emotional health. Patients can also achieve the best results when they are at a stable, healthy weight.

Dr. Himansu Shah leaning on table

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Himansu Shah M.D., F.A.C.S.

In Dr. Shah’s capable hands, the options are almost endless. From surgical and nonsurgical facial rejuvenation, Brazilian butt lift and Breast Augmentation, Dr. Shah can  deliver the results you’ve always desired with a simple trip to the office.

Benefits Of Fat Removal

The primary reason why patients choose to undergo this procedure is to achieve facial definition through the removal of the buccal fat pads. Additional benefits include:

The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

This minor surgery takes about an hour under local anesthetic much like when you go to the dentist. Patients can also suggest incorporating mild sedation into treatment to promote ultimate relaxation. General anesthesia may also be an option but is seldom needed unless buccal fat removal is being combined with another procedure such as a facelift.

Buccal fat lies too far beneath the surface and is too cohesive in form, to be removed with liposuction. After anesthetizing the area to block nerve sensations, Dr. Shah will make an incision on the inner cheek. This is a very small incision about 1cm long. Through the incision, our staff can then easily excise the fat pad. Then, typically with a single suture for each side, Dr. Shah will close the incisions.

Recovery From Fat Removal

There is a short recovery period after buccal fat removal surgery. Patients will likely feel swelling occurring more than they can see it. In some cases, it may not be noticeable at all due to the fact that structure has been removed from the area where swelling occurs. Essentially, the face may look the same for a short time until the swelling subsides.

For a few days after surgery, our staff advises patients to consume more liquids, such as smoothies, or very soft foods. A special oral rinse may also be recommended to inhibit bacterial infection around sutures. Until a full examination of your surgical site is performed and approved by Dr. Shah strenuous activity should be avoided.

Buccal Fat Removal Results

Initial swelling from the minor surgical procedure may somewhat impede the full spectrum of improvement. This swelling is often very minor, but it does perpetuate the appearance you had prior to surgery. So, for some time, it may seem as though nothing has changed.

However, in the weeks after surgery, the swelling will diminish gradually and you will notice more angles and contouring across the bottom of your cheek area. Additionally, results from buccal fat pad removal can last indefinitely.

Delivering the Results You’ve Always Desired

Signature Plastic Surgery | Breast | Body | Face Results in Las Vegas

Schedule A Consultation

Buccal fat removal is a popular procedure for adults that want to create more definition to their facial contours. To learn more about buccal fat removal at Signature Plastic Surgery call (702) 684-5502 or fill out an online contact form and our office will be in touch.

FAQ

Las Vegas Buccal Fat Removal

You may notice some improvement immediately after your buccal fat removal procedure. However, initial swelling and bruising may obscure your results. After two weeks, these side effects will significantly subside, though it will still take three to four months before you get the full picture of your surgical outcomes.

While risks are rare with buccal fat removal, you should be aware of these before deciding to undergo the procedure.

  • Infection
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Hematoma/bruising
  • Muscle weakness due to facial nerve injury
  • Facial asymmetry
  • The removal of too much fat

You can ensure your buccal fat removal is safe and complication-free when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Shah will discuss possible risks with you in detail before your procedure to ensure you are a good candidate for buccal fat removal. He will provide detailed instructions on how to prevent any complications.

One of the most significant benefits of buccal fat removal is that it doesn’t generally produce any visible scarring. Your incisions will be inside your mouth – specifically, extending approximately 2 to 4 cm from each cheek down to the gumline. With proper oral hygiene and incision care, patients recover from their surgery without noticing or feeling their scars.

Buccal fat removal can change your face shape by reducing fullness in your lower cheeks, highlighting your cheekbones and facial structure, and slimming your jawline and chin for a more tapered look. However, rather than making you look dramatically different, buccal fat removal will subtly accentuate your features.

Buccal fat removal can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. Factors that influence your total price tag include the surgeon’s experience level, facility fees, anesthesia type, and the amount of fat you have removed. During your consultation with Dr. Shah, he will break down a detailed cost estimate after examining your features and creating an optimal treatment plan to meet your needs.