BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure wherein the buccal fat pads in the cheeks are surgically removed. This operation aims to slim the cheekbones and emphasize the structure and angles of the face. The surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with another procedure, including a facelift, lip augmentation, Botox injections, rhinoplasty, or other chin and cheek procedures in Shreveport.

For patients who are uncomfortable with their large, round, or chubby cheeks, buccal fat removal offers a much more sculpted and symmetrical look. The surgery is carried out from the inside of the mouth, leaving no visible scars to the face. Dr. Wall will carefully remove the appropriate quantity of buccal fat pads based on the patients’ desires to improve their facial features and overall look.

A buccal lipectomy is a relatively simple treatment that may be performed under a local anesthetic. Dr. Wall will begin by making tiny incisions within the mouth. Then, he carefully removes as much of the fat pad as is required to create the ideal appearance that he and the patient have discussed. After the fat is removed, the incision site will be sealed with dissolvable sutures. This process takes roughly an hour to complete (not including prep time). Soon after the procedure, you will be able to return home.

You may be a suitable candidate for this procedure if you are:

• In good physical health
• A non-smoker
• Insecure about your round cheeks or broad face
• Seeking facial feminization surgery
• A healthy weight

Following surgery, Dr. Wall will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions as well as information regarding what to expect in your buccal fat removal recovery. 

For many days after the surgery, you'll need to stick to a liquid diet. Whenever your doctor advises, you can go back to soft foods before eventually returning to your regular diet.

The tissues inside the mouth typically need anywhere from seven to ten days to heal after the buccal fat pad is removed. However, it may take about three weeks for patients to make a full recovery.

After a buccal lipectomy, you can expect temporary side effects such as facial swelling and bruising. Both should go away on their own as you recover, which is usually within two to three weeks. The cheekbones will begin to seem slimmer and more sculpted once the swelling subsides. Beyond that, buccal fat removal surgery is a relatively safe procedure. 

However, like with any surgery, there is always the chance for unfavorable complications to arise, some of which may demand further surgery.

Potential complications include:

• Bleeding
• Problems with anesthesia
• Lockjaw 
• Injury to the salivary glands
• Injury to the facial nerves
• Cardiac or pulmonary side effects 
• Asymmetry of the face 

Infection is also a potential risk factor. After a buccal lipectomy, a specific mouth rinse may be prescribed to help minimize the risk of infection in the patient. This wash should be used exactly as indicated by your surgeon.

The cost of a buccal fat removal procedure varies based on several factors, such as the surgeon's level of expertise, the type of anesthetic used, the medicines prescribed, and the region where you are located. With all things considered, buccal fat removal typically costs anywhere between $2,000 to $5,000.

Before undergoing surgery, inquire about the price with your plastic surgeon's office. Buccal fat reduction is not covered by health insurance since it’s a cosmetic surgery, so you’ll have to pay for it yourself. You should also ask about any payment or financing plans they may offer. At The Plastic Surgery Center, we offer convenient plastic surgery financing plans and payment options, making it easier than ever to pay for your procedure.