Buccal Fat Removal

Overview

Round, full cheeks can sometimes make the face look heavier even when the body is fit. Many individuals find that despite a healthy lifestyle, diet, or regular workouts, their facial fullness remains unchanged. This “baby-face” appearance is often hereditary and can affect confidence in professional and personal settings.

At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Craig Jonov offers buccal fat removal, a refined facial contouring surgery designed to create a slimmer, sculpted lower face and sharper cheekbone definition. This minimally invasive procedure permanently removes excess fat pads from the cheeks, enhancing facial angles and harmony without leaving any visible scars.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure that reduces fullness in the lower cheeks to create a slimmer, more contoured facial shape. It targets the buccal fat pads, which are naturally occurring pockets of fat located beneath the cheekbones that can make the face appear round or puffy, even in lean individuals.

During the surgery, small incisions are made inside the mouth, allowing the surgeon to gently remove a portion of the fat pads. Because the incisions are internal, there are no visible scars, and the recovery is typically quick. The result is a refined, sculpted appearance with enhanced cheekbone definition and a more balanced facial profile. This procedure offers a permanent solution for individuals seeking natural, long-lasting facial contouring.

Benefits of Cheek Reduction Surgery

Buccal fat removal at The Gallery of Cosmetics offers numerous aesthetic benefits:

• Enhanced Facial Definition: Creates shadow contrast between cheekbones and lower jaw for a more defined appearance
• Slimmer Face Shape: Reduces roundness for a more angular, sophisticated look
• Permanent Fat Removal: Fat cells removed during the procedure do not grow back
• No Visible Scarring: All incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no external scars
• Improved Facial Balance: Creates better proportion between facial features
• Quick Outpatient Procedure: Surgery typically takes 30 to 60 minutes
• Minimal Downtime: Most patients return to work within 5 to 7 days
• Natural-Looking Results: Enhances cheekbone prominence without looking overdone

Am I a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal surgery is a highly individualized procedure. Ideal candidates at The Gallery of Cosmetics typically:

• Are in good physical health and at a healthy weight with a round, fuller face
• Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
• Are adults whose faces have fully developed, usually by the mid to late 20s
• Feel self-conscious about “chipmunk cheeks” or a baby face appearance
• Are typically in their late 20s to 40s to enjoy sculpting effects without risking premature aging
• Have excess buccal fat with proper facial bone structure
• Do not smoke or are willing to quit before surgery

Patients who already have a narrow face may find that buccal fat removal accentuates the narrow appearance and results in an overly gaunt look. Dr. Jonov carefully evaluates facial structure during consultations to determine appropriate candidacy.

Procedures involved During Buccal Fat Removal

1. Consultation: Your experience begins with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jonov. He examines facial anatomy, discusses aesthetic goals, and outlines the best approach to achieve a balanced look.
2. Anesthesia: Most buccal fat removal surgeries are performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain awake and comfortable without the risks of general anesthesia.
3. Surgical Process: Small incisions are made inside the mouth, near the upper molars. Through these openings, Dr. Jonov gently removes the targeted portion of buccal fat pads. Once complete, dissolvable sutures are used to close the incisions, and no visible scars are left behind.
4. Duration: The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, and patients return home the same day with detailed aftercare guidance.

What Will the Recovery Be Like?

Recovery after buccal fat removal is typically quick and straightforward. Most patients experience mild swelling, tenderness, or minor bruising during the first few days, which gradually subsides within a week. A soft or liquid diet is usually recommended for the first couple of days to allow the incisions inside the mouth to heal comfortably, and a prescribed mouth rinse helps prevent infection. By the end of the first week, most individuals can return to work and normal activities. As the swelling continues to settle over the following days, the cheeks begin to take on a slimmer, more defined appearance with minimal downtime and natural-looking results.

What Results Can Be Expected?

Most patients begin noticing a slimmer, more defined facial shape within a few weeks after buccal fat removal. As the initial swelling subsides, the cheeks gradually contour and reveal enhanced cheekbone definition. Over the following weeks, the lower face continues to refine, creating a naturally sculpted, balanced appearance. Once healing is complete, the results appear smooth, symmetrical, and in harmony with the rest of the facial features. Since the buccal fat pads are permanently removed, the results are long-lasting and irreversible, though maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle helps preserve the refined contours for years to come.

What Are the Risks and Possible Complications?

Buccal fat removal is generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon. Minor swelling, bruising, or temporary numbness may occur, and rare complications include infection, asymmetry, or slight changes in sensation. A careful, conservative approach by an experienced surgeon helps prevent over-removal and ensures natural-looking results.

Buccal Fat Removal vs. Other Facial Contouring Options

Buccal Fat Removal vs. Facial Liposuction

In cheek liposuction, fat is vacuumed out of the face using a narrow tube and suction device. Buccal fat removal involves surgical excision to remove the pad of fat beneath the cheekbone. The techniques target different fat deposits and produce distinct results.

Buccal Fat Removal vs. Dermal Fillers

While dermal fillers can add volume to enhance cheekbone prominence, they produce temporary results and work differently than fat removal. Buccal fat removal creates permanent changes by reducing lower cheek volume, while fillers add volume to specific areas.

Combining with Other Procedures

Buccal fat removal may be performed along with other facial cosmetic surgery procedures to maximize aesthetic transformation. Popular combination treatments include:

• Chin augmentation for improved facial balance
• Neck liposuction for enhanced jawline definition
• Rhinoplasty for complete facial harmony
• Facelift for comprehensive facial rejuvenation
• Cheek implants or fillers for upper cheek enhancement

Dr. Jonov discusses combination options during consultations to create ideal treatment plans.

Why Choose Dr. Jonov for Buccal Fat Removal in Seattle?

When considering buccal fat removal in the Seattle area, choosing the right surgeon is crucial for achieving safe, natural-looking results. At The Gallery of Cosmetics, Dr. Jonov brings extensive experience in facial contouring procedures. The practice offers:

• Specialized Facial Expertise: Dr. Jonov focuses on facial aesthetic procedures with meticulous attention to detail
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Every procedure is customized to unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals
• Conservative Approach: Emphasis on removing appropriate amounts to avoid overly hollow or aged appearance
• State-of-the-Art Facility: The clinic provides a comfortable, modern environment
• Comprehensive Patient Care: The team supports patients from consultation through recovery
• Natural-Looking Results: Dr. Jonov enhances features while maintaining facial harmony
• Transparent Pricing: At $5,995, the buccal fat removal procedure offers exceptional value for expert surgical care
• Convenient Seattle Location: Easily accessible to patients from Bellevue, Kirkland, and surrounding communities

Long-Term Considerations for Facial Aging

As patients age, natural facial volume loss and skin laxity changes can alter the initial results of buccal fat removal. The procedure is permanent and the fat cannot be replaced if preferences change, which can potentially make the face look older over time as natural volume is lost with age.

Dr. Jonov carefully evaluates each patient’s facial structure, age, and long-term aesthetic goals to ensure buccal fat removal will enhance rather than prematurely age appearance. His conservative approach focuses on removing just enough fat to achieve definition while preserving youthful facial fullness.

Post-Operative Care and Aftercare Instructions

Following buccal fat removal at The Gallery of Cosmetics, proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing:

• Use the special mouth rinse provided to help with healing and prevent infection
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene without disturbing incision sites
• Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling
• Follow the prescribed liquid diet for the first 1-2 days
• Progress to soft foods before returning to the regular diet
• Avoid strenuous activities for at least one week
• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling
• Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Jonov
• Avoid smoking and alcohol during recovery

Cost of Buccal Fat Removal

At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery, buccal fat removal is priced at $5,995. This all-inclusive fee covers the surgical procedure performed by Dr. Craig Jonov, facility and anesthesia costs, as well as post-operative care and follow-up visits. However, the pricing may vary depending on several factors, such as individual goals, facial anatomy, and the overall treatment plan discussed during consultation. Flexible financing options are also available to make the procedure more accessible and convenient for patients seeking refined, long-lasting results.

Schedule Your Buccal Fat Removal Consultation

The Gallery of Cosmetics serves patients throughout Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and the greater Puget Sound region. Dr. Jonov’s expertise in buccal fat removal surgery has helped patients achieve their aesthetic goals with natural-looking, lasting results.

Stop letting full cheeks affect confidence and facial appearance. Contact The Gallery of Cosmetics today to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Jonov. During the consultation, aesthetic goals will be discussed, facial structure will be evaluated, and a customized treatment plan will be created specifically for each patient’s unique needs.

Call now at (425) 775-3561 or fill out the online form to book a consultation for buccal fat removal and take the first step toward a more contoured, confident appearance today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal

How much does buccal fat removal cost?

The buccal fat removal procedure at The Gallery of Cosmetics is priced at $5,995, which includes the surgical fee, facility costs, and follow-up care. Financing options are available.

Will buccal fat removal make my face look older?

When performed by an experienced surgeon on proper candidates, the procedure will not cause premature aging. Candidates for this surgery have excess buccal fat and proper facial structure, so their faces age naturally after the procedure. Dr. Jonov uses a conservative approach to avoid over-removal.

Can buccal fat grow back after removal?

No, the results of buccal fat pad removal are permanent since the fat pads are surgically removed and do not regenerate. However, other facial fat cells may expand with significant weight gain.

How long do buccal fat removal results last?

Results are permanent since the fat pads are surgically removed. However, as natural aging occurs, the face may lose fat in other areas, which can alter the overall appearance over time.

Is buccal fat removal painful?

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, making it relatively painless during surgery. Patients may experience mild discomfort and swelling after surgery, but pain is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

What is the difference between buccal fat removal and facial liposuction?

In cheek liposuction, fat is vacuumed out using a narrow tube and suction device. Buccal fat removal involves surgical excision to remove the specific fat pad beneath the cheekbone. They target different fat deposits.

When can I return to work after buccal fat removal?

Most patients take 5 to 7 days away from work and normal activities. Patients typically feel comfortable being seen in public within a week once initial swelling and bruising subside.

Will I have visible scars after buccal fat removal?

No, all incisions are placed inside the mouth, eliminating any risk of external scarring. The scars remain hidden within the oral cavity.

At what age should I consider buccal fat removal?

Most doctors recommend waiting until ages 20-25 when the face has fully matured. The ideal age range is typically late 20s to 40s, allowing patients to enjoy results without risking premature aging appearance.

Can I combine buccal fat removal with other procedures?

Yes, buccal fat removal is frequently combined with chin augmentation, neck liposuction, rhinoplasty, facelift, or injectable treatments for comprehensive facial enhancement.

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