Buccal Fat Removal in Philadelphia

A common cause of an overly round face are the buccal fat pads, which are located beneath the cheekbones on the sides of the mouth. Reducing or removing the extra fullness caused by buccal fat pads creates a more defined facial appearance and makes cheekbones look more prominent.

About buccal fat removal

Many individuals dislike their “baby face” or “chipmunk cheeks” and want to achieve a more defined appearance. The issue is typically caused by the buccal pat pads, which we’re all born with. For some, these fat pads are simply more prominent, and their face can look more round than others. Adding to this problem is the fact that prominent buccal pat pads are often genetic, which can make it very hard to do anything to improve them. That’s where our buccal fat removal in Philadelphia can help. This effective surgery removes the buccal fat pads from inside the mouth, resulting in a more contoured appearance.

Buccal Fat Removal What Happens During Surgery?

Buccal fat removal is performed through incisions that are hidden within the mouth, near the molars. The surgery is performed under local anesthesia. Injections of local anesthesia will be administered on both sides of the mouth, and once you’re numb, the incision will be made. Dr. Bloom will carefully separate the muscle from the buccal fat pad, remove the fat pad, and trim it to the ideal size for the patient’s facial structure.

It will then be placed back within the cheek, the incision will be closed, and the other side of the mouth will receive the same process. The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Because removing too much buccal fat can lead to a gaunt appearance (especially as natural aging progresses), Dr. Bloom takes a conservative approach and may recommend additional facial plastic surgery procedures or non-invasive treatments such as injectable fillers to create proportion amongst the facial features, after your buccal fat removal in Philadelphia.

Before & After

Recovery and Results After Buccal Fat Removal

Recovery involves soreness and swelling for up to 14 days; however, there is usually no visible bruising. Stiches are generally removed after 10 days, and a special diet of non-acidic foods may be recommended during recovery. We advise sleeping with your head elevated during recovery, and also rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash multiple times each day. Initial improvement can be seen in as little as a week or two, but it can take up to four months to see final results as residual swelling subsides. Once the results are visible, you will notice that your cheeks are much slimmer and sculpted than they were before, with an improved and more defined contour.

Buccal Fat Removal FAQs:

How old do I need to be to have buccal fat removal?

Although this procedure can technically be done at any age, it’s very important to understand that if you have it done too early, you could end up with an unhealthy, gaunt appearance. This is because many individuals start losing their youthful facial fat in their 20s and 30s. If you’re interested in this surgery and aren’t sure if you’re too young, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation so that you can find out.

Are results permanent? Can the fat return?

Results of buccal fat removal are permanent. However, you should be aware that if you gain weight after the surgery, your cheeks may appear to become round again.

Will I be able to eat after surgery?

You will be able to eat following surgery, but it’s good to be aware that many patients find chewing difficult or painful for up to three weeks. Directly following surgery, you will be put onto a liquid diet (soup, Jell-O, smoothies, etc.) until we advise you otherwise. This is usually about five days. After that, you can move on to soft foods such as mashed potatoes and bananas. You’ll need to completely avoid food that is crunchy for at least two weeks following surgery in order to protect the area.

How much does a buccal fat removal surgery cost?

The cost of buccal fat removal surgery can vary depending on factors such as the location, surgeon's experience, and individual patient needs, but typically ranges from $7,000 to $8,000 by Dr. Bloom and $5,000-$6,500 by Dr. Shtraks.

Why choose Dr. Bloom for buccal fat removal?

Dr. Jason Bloom has been double board-certified by the American Academy of Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery and the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and utilizes an excellent team at Bloom Facial Plastic Surgery to ensure that the highest level of outcome is achieved in a caring, safe, patient-centric atmosphere. Conveniently located in Bryn Mawr, nestled in the heart of the Main Line just outside of Philadelphia, Bloom Facial Plastic Surgery exudes a positive and friendly atmosphere from the moment you walk through our door throughout your entire experience with us.

Our office is like a family, and we take care of each patient like they are one of our own. The comprehensive nature and synergy of our team provides our patients with unparalleled results. If you’re in the Bryn Mawr and Philadelphia area and are seeking buccal fat removal, we welcome you to contact us for a consultation.