Buccal Fat Removal vs Cheek Liposuction: Which Is Better For You?
Do you want a change in the shape of your face? Buccal fat removal and cheek liposuction are the two procedures mostly performed for the purpose of aesthetic enhancement of the face. Dr. Andrew Frankel is a celebrity facial plastic surgeon, and his experience is invaluable to the conversation to guide patients on the best way to get the look they want.
It is here that one has to know about candidacy, techniques, and results of the procedure he or she wants to opt for. When in the hands of Dr. Frankel, you will be able to expect a very professional approach that will ensure that he provides these procedures in the most safe and effective manner possible.
Understanding the Procedures
What is Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
Buccal fat removal is a surgical liposculpture procedure with the aim of reducing the size of the buccal fat pad. Often done on an ambulatory basis, it is a form of surgical operation that entails creating cuts within the mouth with a view of removing fat pads of the face.
What Really is Cheek Liposuction?
Cheek liposuction, another invasive procedure, is aimed at erasing facial fat. This is done through small incisions made on the surface of the skin, a cannula is passed through to remove fat in the cheeks. This treatment is both cosmetic and surgical and is done on the cheek area.
Both procedures have their unique characteristics:
Buccal Fat Removal
- Focus Area: Buccal fat pad
- Incision Placement: Inside the mouth
- Type of Procedure: Fat pad removal procedure
- Invasiveness: Less invasive (no visible scars)
- Typical Recovery Time: Shorter due to hidden incisions
- Ideal Candidate: Individuals with pronounced buccal fat
- Procedure Time: Generally under an hour
- Anesthesia: Local, sometimes with sedation
- Maybe longer due to visible incisions:Outpatient procedure
Cheek Liposuction
- Focus Area: Broader cheek areas
- Incision Placement: External on the cheek
- Type of Procedure: Fat reduction procedure
- Invasiveness: More invasive (possible visible scarring)
- Typical Recovery Time: May be longer due to visible incisions
- Ideal Candidate: Those with excess cheek fat
- Procedure Time: Varies, typically under an hour
- Anesthesia: Usually local with sedation
- Maybe longer due to visible incisions:Outpatient procedure
These procedures which have a specific function in the treatment of facial cosmetic surgery show the variability of the operations. Whether choosing buccal fat removal or cheek liposuction, the goal remains the same: This can give the client a slimmer face shape in accordance with the client’s preference.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Buccal Fat Removal
A good candidate for buccal fat removal is a patient who wants to have a better facial shape. In the course of the consultation, we observe whether the patient has full cheeks that are still prominent even when the rest of the body is skinny. Candidates should:
- Possess good skin elasticity
- Aim to diminish prominent cheeks
- Have clear goals for a more contoured facial appearance
To be considered, a patient must have realistic expectations and understand the subtlety of the outcome in relation to their overall facial features.
Cheek Liposuction
It is usually performed on patients who want to contour their faces by reducing the fat in the cheeks. Ideal candidates share similar qualifications:
- Display a disproportionate facial fat distribution
- Maintain a stable weight
- Seek a sharper, more defined cheek contour
Persistent fat deposits despite a healthy lifestyle point to a patient’s suitability for this procedure. We ensure each prospective candidate understands the procedure’s goal for facial enhancement during their consultation.
Procedure Techniques
Techniques Used in Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal surgery aims at the removal of buccal fat pad, which is a specific deposit of fat found in the cheeks. This is a very accurate approach in which a small cut is made in the inside aspect of the mouth, often close to the second upper molar. At this access point we use some slight pressure to make the buccal fat pad visible and then remove the required quantity of fat. This technique aims at carful rearrangement of the cheek’s shape with minimal interference with the surrounding tissues. In the buccal fat pad removal, the aim is to provide the patient with a more well sculpted face.
Techniques Used in Cheek Liposuction
When performing cheek liposuction, another form of facial liposuction, the approach is slightly different. This treatment aims to remove unwanted fat tissue from broader areas of the cheeks to refine facial proportions. We first infiltrate the area with a tumescent solution to numb the site and minimize bleeding. Small, discreet incisions positioned near the ear or mouth corners grant us access to the underlying fat. We then insert a narrow cannula and use a back-and-forth motion to loosen the fatty tissue, which is concurrently suctioned out. This technique allows for precise contouring with the added benefit of skin tightening as the area heals post-surgery. Cheek liposuction demands a keen eye for symmetry and balance to maintain the natural harmony of facial features.
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Time and Recovery Process
Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal typically takes about one hour and patients can often return home the same day. Recovery involves managing swelling and discomfort, which may last a few days. We use dissolvable sutures to minimize follow-up visits and ensure minimal scarring. Healing varies, but normal activities can usually resume within a week.
Cheek Liposuction
Cheek liposuction can take between one to two hours, and like buccal fat removal, allows for same-day discharge. Recovery includes monitoring for signs of infection and managing bruising. Most patients return to work within a week, with factors such as age and general health impacting individual healing times. Medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain during the first few days. It’s important to consider all treatment options when exploring these procedures.
Risks and Potential Complications
Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal carries risks like any surgical procedure. Patients may experience complications such as:
- Infection: despite sterile techniques, infections can occur requiring antibiotics.
- Hematoma: accumulation of blood under the skin, potentially needing drainage.
- Asymmetry: uneven removal of buccal fat may lead to facial imbalance.
- Nerve damage: transient or permanent sensation loss may occur.
- Scarring: though incisions are inside the mouth, abnormal scarring can cause issues.
Addressing risks proactively with a skilled surgeon minimizes these complications, but the potential for visible scars, albeit rare since incisions are hidden, exists.
Cheek Liposuction
Cheek liposuction, while effective for contouring, also presents risks:
- Skin irregularities: uneven fat removal can lead to dimpling or waviness.
- Contour deformities: over or under-removal of fat may result.
- Fluid accumulation: seromas may need to be drained if they occur.
- Numbness: temporary loss of sensation around the cheeks is possible.
- Scarring: external incisions may lead to visible scars that require cosmetic solutions.
Patients must weigh these risks against the benefits, understanding that complications can impact the aesthetic outcome. Effective communication with the surgeon about expectations and recovery is crucial.
Maintenance and Longevity of Results
Long-Term Care After Buccal Fat Removal
To maintain the contour achieved through buccal fat removal, a consistent lifestyle is vital. The longevity of your results largely depends on a stable weight, as significant fluctuations can alter the appearance of your cheeks. Integrate these maintenance strategies:
- Diet: Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to prevent weight gain and support overall health.
- Weight Management: Engage in regular exercise to maintain your body weight and enhance facial definition.
Long-Term Care After Cheek Liposuction
Post-cheek liposuction, the maintenance of results extends beyond the initial recovery. For enduring effects, consider these lifestyle factors:
- Diet: Focus on maintaining a healthy diet that limits high-calorie and processed foods, which can contribute to weight gain and affect your facial contours.
- Lifestyle: Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can impede healing and potentially diminish your surgical outcomes.
In both cases, the key to preserving your new facial profile is consistency in your maintenance efforts, ensuring the longevity of the buccal fat removal and cheek liposuction enhancements.
Final Thoughts on Making Your Choice
When it comes to refining your facial contours, understanding whether buccal fat removal or cheek liposuction aligns with your goals is crucial. Consultation with reputable surgeons is imperative; only they can assess factors like bone structure, skin elasticity, and medical history. Discuss cheek fat concerns and ask about chin lipo as an option, especially if a double chin is also present.
A skilled facial plastic surgeon can help determine the right course of action, whether it’s cheek liposuction that targets the skin and deeper fat layers or buccal fat removal for a more pronounced cheek hollow. They may even suggest combining procedures or incorporating an implant for optimal results.
Ready to unveil the best version of yourself? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrew Frankel. Together, you can explore which option will enhance your natural beauty while aligning with your personal goals. Embrace the opportunity to take the next step toward a look that brings you joy and confidence.
