A slimmer, more contoured facial profile
Buccal fat removal (also called buccal fat pad removal or cheek reduction surgery) is a facial contouring procedure designed to reduce fullness in the lower cheeks and create more definition along the cheekbones and jawline. Individuals who feel their face appears round or “baby-faced” despite maintaining a healthy weight, buccal fat removal can provide a more sculpted, refined appearance.
At Maloney Center for Facial Plastic Surgery, buccal fat removal is performed with careful attention to balance and facial harmony. The goal is never to look hollow or overly thin, but to enhance natural contours while maintaining a youthful, healthy appearance.
What is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat is a naturally occurring fat pad located deep in the mid-cheek, between the facial muscles. Everyone has buccal fat, but the size of these fat pads varies significantly from person to person. Some individuals naturally have larger buccal fat pads, which can contribute to a rounder facial shape even when they are slim elsewhere.
Buccal fat removal reduces a portion of this fat pad through a small incision inside the mouth. This creates subtle slimming in the lower cheeks and can help highlight the cheekbones and jawline.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal can be an excellent option for the right candidate. Benefits may include:
- A more contoured, sculpted facial appearance
- Reduced fullness in the lower cheeks
- Improved definition of cheekbones and jawline
- A slimmer facial silhouette while maintaining natural balance
- No visible external scarring (incision is inside the mouth)
- Long-lasting results
Who is a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
The best way to determine whether buccal fat removal is right for you is through a consultation. In general, ideal candidates often include individuals who:
- Have naturally full or round cheeks
- Are at a stable, healthy weight but still have cheek fullness
- Desire more facial definition
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations for subtle, natural improvement
About the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
Buccal fat removal is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. It can be done on its own, or combined with other facial procedures depending on your goals.
A typical procedure may include:
Anesthesia
Most patients undergo buccal fat removal with local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia may be used depending on whether other procedures are being performed.
Incision
A small incision is made on the inside of each cheek. This incision is entirely internal, so there is no visible scar on the outside of the face.
Removal of the Buccal Fat Pad
A controlled amount of buccal fat is carefully removed. The surgeon will remove only what is necessary to maintain natural balance and avoid excessive hollowing.
Closure
The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures that heal naturally over time.
The procedure generally takes about 30–60 minutes when performed alone.
Buccal Fat Removal Recovery
Recovery is typically straightforward, with most patients returning to normal routines relatively quickly. However, healing occurs in phases.
Immediately After Surgery
Swelling is common and expected. Bruising is usually minimal because the incision is inside the mouth.
First Week
Patients are typically advised to follow a soft food or liquid diet for several days, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid strenuous activity.
Two to Three Weeks
Swelling continues to gradually improve. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within a week, depending on their comfort level.
Final Results
While some improvement is noticeable once swelling begins to resolve, final results typically become more defined over several months as the tissues fully settle.
Your surgeon will provide aftercare instructions including dietary guidance, oral rinses, and restrictions to support optimal healing.
Results: What to Expect
It is important to note that facial volume changes naturally with age, and appropriate candidate selection is key to achieving a balanced and youthful outcome. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your facial shape, age, skin quality, and goals to ensure this procedure aligns with your long-term aesthetic.
Can Buccal Fat Removal be Combined with Other Procedures?
Yes. Buccal fat removal is often combined with other facial aesthetic procedures when appropriate, such as:
- Chin augmentation or chin implant
- Neck liposuction
- Facial liposuction
- Facelift or mini-facelift
- Rhinoplasty
- Dermal fillers or facial fat transfer (in select cases)
Combining procedures can help achieve more comprehensive facial harmony while minimizing downtime compared to staging multiple surgeries.
FAQ: Buccal Fat Removal
No. The incision is made inside the mouth, so there is no external scarring.
Most patients experience mild discomfort or soreness rather than significant pain. Any discomfort can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
Many patients return to work within 5–7 days, depending on swelling and comfort level.
Results are considered long-lasting because the removed buccal fat does not return.
When performed conservatively and on the right candidate, the goal is a natural contour—not a hollow appearance. Proper evaluation and technique are essential.
Initial improvements are noticeable once swelling begins to resolve, but final results may take a few months as the cheeks fully settle.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering buccal fat removal and would like to learn whether it is the right option for your facial goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team. During your visit, we will discuss your concerns, evaluate your facial structure, and create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you look refreshed, balanced, and naturally contoured.
Contact our Atlanta office today to get started.
