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Buccal fat removal in Austin surgically eliminates unwanted fullness in the cheeks. The buccal fat pad is a deep fat pad in the middle of each cheek. It is found between the facial muscles in the hollow area under your cheekbones. Everyone has these pads, but the size can differ greatly from one person to the next.

If you have a round, full face or “chubby cheeks” and would prefer slimmer facial contours, contact us to learn more about buccal fat removal in Austin. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Scott Haydon, has the expertise and skill to help you attain your desired look.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is also known as buccal lipectomy or cheek reduction surgery. This plastic surgery procedure involves the removal of the buccal fat pads in your cheeks. The surgery may be performed alone or in conjunction with other procedures such as rhinoplasty, facelift, lip augmentation, or chin implants.

Am I a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

A consultation with Dr. Haydon is the best way to determine if you are a good candidate for cheek reduction surgery. In general, buccal fat removal is an option for patients who are at a healthy weight, do not smoke, and want to reduce the fullness of their cheeks. Common reasons for buccal fat removal surgery include:

• Disliking the appearance of fuller cheeks
• Treating pseudoherniation, which causes a small round fat mass in the cheek due to weak buccal fat pads

Buccal fat removal is not recommended if:

• You have a naturally thin face, as there is a chance that the surgery may cause sunken cheeks as you age.

You are at an age when facial fat loss is common. Buccal fat removal in older people may exaggerate other signs of facial aging.

If you are not a good candidate for buccal fat removal, Dr. Haydon can recommend alternative treatment options to help you achieve the facial profile you want.

What Does the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure Involve?

Buccal fat removal surgery includes the following:

1. Anesthesia – You will be given a local anesthetic and can remain awake if you are only having a buccal fat removal procedure. If you are combining buccal fat removal with other surgeries, general anesthesia will be used.
2. Incision – Once the anesthetic has taken effect, Dr. Haydon will make a small incision in the inside of your cheek. He then puts pressure on the cheek from the outside to expose the buccal fat pad, which is then cut and removed. Once removed, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.
3. Recovery – Once the procedure is over, Dr. Haydon will provide aftercare instructions. You will be given a special mouthwash that helps prevent infection, and you will be instructed on how to care for your incisions. If dietary adjustments are necessary, Dr. Haydon will counsel you regarding a liquid diet and when you can reincorporate solid foods into your diet. It may take up to three weeks for complete recovery.