Buccal fat removal in Mumbai is a surgical operation performed to make the patient’s cheeks narrower and more contoured. The surgery focuses on removing fat that sits under the cheekbones and behind the facial muscles. Unlike regular adipose tissue that sits under the skin, fat decreases with age. Nevertheless, some people, usually as a result of hereditary factors, have buccal fat that is too large for their face, especially in proportion to other fat layers in the body.
Resistant to diets and exercise
Buccal tissues are often resistant to diets and exercise, and therefore people with too large fat pads can benefit from a buccal fat removal – a procedure that helps to achieve a more refined appearance and narrower cheeks, and which provides symmetry on the face.
Buccal fat removal is a relatively simple operation that takes between 30 to 60 minutes depending on the individual case. The procedure can be performed either with local or full anesthesia. The incisions are made on the inside of the cheeks, not leaving any visible scars behind. Moreover, since the grease pads are minimally connected to the structure around them, it is relatively easy to remove them. It is important to point out that the fat pads are never completely removed as this can lead to cavities in the cheeks.
Who is a suitable candidate for buccal fat removal and when is the surgery needed?
- A buccal fat removal may be right for you if you have a round face due to large fat pads in your cheeks. This is decided by an experienced facial surgeon – sometimes the cheeks can have a round appearance as a result of regular fat or overdeveloped jaw muscles.
- Buccal fat removal may also be necessary if through another operation you have reduced the size of your cheek or jaw and this has led to your cheeks looking bloated.
- Finally, a suitable candidate should be in overall good health and have a stable weight – plans for future weight loss can affect the outcome of a buccal fat removal.
Preparing for a buccal fat removal (medications, smoking, consultation)
A consultation with your plastic surgeon is necessary for the surgery to take place. You should be prepared to discuss your expectations and realistic outcomes of the operation, including the potential risks. Your surgeon will also evaluate your health, take pictures and recommend the best treatment method for you.
You will additionally be asked questions about all types of drugs and medications that you are taking (including over-the-counter medications).
You need to provide information about your smoking habits and previous surgeries, if you’ve had any.
Do not hesitate to ask about the procedure and preparation. It is important to mention that you will be asked to quit smoking for at least two weeks before surgery as well as to avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications that may increase the risk of bleeding.
Recovery after a buccal fat removal operation
Recovery after a buccal fat removal is simple compared to many other cosmetic procedures. However, remaining in the clinic overnight may be required if the operation is performed under general anesthesia. You should also expect some swelling that may persist for up to a week.
You can put ice on your cheeks to reduce swelling. You should also follow all the instructions you receive after fat removal, such as eating liquid food for a few days and using a special mouth cleaner to avoid infections where the incisions are located. Your surgeon may also prescribe additional medications (to reduce the risks of infections or to reduce pain), which can be taken by mouth.
Depending on your unique case, the surgeon may also recommend that bandages be used to put pressure on the area. Finally, it should be noted that the results of a buccal fat removal can take up to three months before it has fully manifested itself as your skin needs time to heal.
Can buccal fat removal be combined with a facelift and other surgeries?
Buccal fat removal is often performed in combination with other facial surgeries as the combination of two procedures can help achieve the desired look and a more natural and youthful face. Therefore, buccal fat removal can be carried out in combination with:
- Facelift: A facelift (a procedure that reduces signs of aging on the face and neck).
- Between facelifts: One between facelifts (a specific operation that grabs the signs of old age in the lower eyelids and cheeks).
- Blepharoplasty: An eyelid plastic (performed to restore drooping eyelids)
- Neck lift: A neck lift (an operation that can remove excess skin, muscle tissue or excess fat to improve the appearance of the throat).
- Chin augmentation: Chin augmentation (an operation performed to re-shape and improve the appearance of the chin).
If you’re considering undergoing any of these surgeries, consult your plastic surgeon to find out which combination would work best for you.
Recommendations for the patient after cheek surgery
After having performed a bichectomy you should take into account the following recommendations:
- In the first postoperative days you may have mild swelling in the area of the cheeks and mild pain.
- The diet should be bland for a week.
- Ice should be placed for 20 minutes every hour in the cheek area for the first three days.
- You should remain at moderate rest at home. Do not make efforts of any kind and avoid serene.
- You can perform your activities of daily living, avoiding sun exposure or exercising.
- Take all medications that are formulated and attend the scheduled check-ups in a complete manner.
- In case of any inconvenience you should call your surgeon.
