What is buccal fat removal?
Buccal fat removal or bichectomy is a surgical procedure to create a V-shaped facial structure. By removing fat from the bottom of the cheekbones, it highlights your cheeks and the jawline. This procedure results in a more defined contour and bone structure.
Benefits of buccal fat removal treatment
- Outpatient procedure
- No visible scarring
- Permanent results (except when substantial weight is gained)
- 5 to 7-day downtime
How does buccal fat removal work?
Buccal fat is a pad or ball of adipose tissue positioned under the cheekbones. The shape and size of this tissue determine the shape of your face. The larger, rounder face appears. Bichectomy involves extracting this fat tissue through small incisions (cuts) in the mouth. The amount of removed fat depends on the size and shape of your face. Face fat removal is performed under local anesthesia and takes 30-60 minutes.
Is there an age guideline for buccal fat removal?
Individuals under 18 are not recommended to receive the surgery as their facial tissues still grow and change. People above a certain age, on the other hand, cannot remove their buccal fat without supplementary procedures to avoid skin sagging. If older adults undergo the surgery without a facelift treatment their lower face may become loose.
Who can be a good candidate?
Adults can consider a bichectomy if they:
- Do not like the round and full appearance of their face
- Have relatively large buccal fat tissue
- Passed 18 and have a mature face
Contraindications
- Narrow face
- Unstable weight
- Serious health conditions
FAQ
How long does buccal fat removal surgery take?
The procedure usually takes around 45 minutes.
Is buccal fat removal painful?
The procedure is performed under either local or general anesthesia and therefore you won’t feel any pain. However, the post-surgery period might be slightly uncomfortable as the incisions heal. However, this pain is manageable with painkillers. You may also experience swelling and bruising for a few days.
Is bichectomy permanent?
Buccal fat tissue does not regrow after its removal. Unless experiencing drastic weight changes, the results are permanent.
How long does it take to recover from Buccal fat removal?
5 to 7 days is the typical downtime for a bichectomy. During this recovery phase, you should stay away from work or some of your day-to-day activities. After a week you may resume the activities that do not require too much physical force. You may still feel slight pain or numbness around the incisions for two more weeks.
Buccal fat removal before and after
