At our practice in Miami, buccal fat removal (also known as cheek fat removal or Bichectomy) is a commonly sought-after surgical procedure. This procedure has gained a lot of popularity in recent years as it can accentuate the contours of the face by reducing the fullness of the mid-cheek, making the face appear slimmer, and making the cheekbones appear more defined. The procedure is fairly simple but does require finesse and should only be performed on the properly selected patients in order to achieve the best result.
If you’re interested in our Miami buccal fat pad removal, Dr. Z will be happy to advise if this is the right procedure for your specific anatomy and aesthetic goals. Below, we’ve included information about the procedure and frequently asked questions. If you’re interested in buccal fat removal or have any questions, please contact us.
Both terms refer to the same procedure. It is also referred to as Cheek fat reduction surgery, buccal fat lipectomy, or Bichectomy.
Simply put, buccal fat pad removal rids the cheeks of excess fat caused by genetics or weight gain. The buccal fat pad is found in the middle of the cheek, and if it’s too full, it can hide the indentation of the mid-cheek, creating a round facial shape. Patients who undergo this procedure see slimmer cheeks and a more contoured face.
Those with excess fullness in the central part of the cheek and looking to achieve a slimmer / more contoured appearance are the best candidates. Dr. Z insists on evaluating each patient to make sure that they will benefit from this surgery. Those looking to reduce fullness in the far lower part of the cheek/jowl area are NOT good candidates and are better served by alternative procedures like facetite, liposuction, or a facelift.
While fuller cheeks can be a sign of youth, they can also create a rounder face shape if the fullness is located in the central and lower cheek. Not only does this procedure rid the face of excess fat, but it also creates more structure by revealing more prominent cheekbones. We’ve listed some benefits below:
The first step to getting buccal fat removal in Miami is to have an evaluation and consultation with Dr. Z to see if this procedure will give you the results you desire. During your appointment, you’ll be able to explain to Dr. Z your goals for surgery. He’ll provide his recommendations and come up with a surgical plan. It’s important that you’re very upfront and honest about your goals, as good communication always leads to the best results. Although the full preoperative instructions are reviewed during the surgical booking, the following is a general outline. Patients are asked to avoid any medications or supplements that can increase bleeding for 1- 2 weeks before surgery. No alcohol for at least 4 days prior to surgery. Make sure you do not have any oral/dental infections, wounds, or active cold sores. It’s important that you follow these guidelines, as it decreases risks and improves results.
The surgery is relatively simple but can be tricky at the same time. It can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preferences. Pain and anxiety medication pills are given to help patients relax. The mouth is open and a small numbing injection is placed on the inside of each cheek. This is a very quick stick and burning sensation. From that point the entire cheek is numb. The mouth is open to a comfortable level for the patient and the cheek is gently pulled back. A very small incision is then made inside the cheek and the buccal fat pad is identified. The fat is then gently teased out of its pocket and removed. Two or 3 dissolvable stitches are placed to close the incision and the procedure is done. The entire surgery should take under one hour and results become evident after 1-4 months as the swelling subsides and the buccal space contracts.
Recovery is generally easy and takes about 1-2 days. Some patients experience mild pain/ soreness, which subsides after a few days. The cheeks appear slightly fuller during the first week but tend to return to their normal appearance by the 1-week mark. The results are not immediately evident as the swelling takes place of the fat that was removed. This swelling continues to subside and the results can start to be seen as early as 4 weeks after surgery, progressively improving for several months thereafter. During recovery, it’s important to be careful not to bite down on the cheek area, so the incision can properly heal and sutures can dissolve. Pain medication can be prescribed and ice packs will help with swelling and discomfort.
When choosing a buccal fat removal surgeon, it’s important that you find a surgeon that you trust and who has the skill set to achieve what you’re looking for. Dr. Z specializes in facial aesthetics. His training, education, and experience have provided him with expertise in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Z prides himself on his compassion for patients, bedside manner, and knowledge in the field. By going to Dr. Z, not only do you get a board-certified facial plastic surgeon but a doctor who will work with you to achieve your desired results.
The cost of buccal fat removal in Miami will depend on a few variables and will tend to change with time, typically increasing as most things in the economy. This is one of the reasons we do not post prices online, however, we will be happy to give a price estimate to those that call to inquire. Our prices are not the lowest, however, we maintain them at a fair value for the level of expertise and care that is provided by our practice.
Many of Dr. Z’s Miami buccal fat removal patients feel that the surgery accomplishes their desired aesthetic goals and are happy they had the procedure. If you’re interested in booking a consultation or have any questions, please contact us today.