What is buccal fat removal?
Buccal fat removal (bichectomy) is the partial excision of the buccal fat pads — deep fat structures that each of us has inside the cheeks. Reducing them slims the mid-to-lower third of the face, accentuates the cheekbones and creates a more defined jawline contour.
It is performed through an intraoral approach, with no visible scars, in 30–45 minutes, under local anaesthesia with sedation.
It is not always a good idea
Buccal fat naturally diminishes with age. A buccal fat removal performed on a very young face or without a clear indication can lead to a gaunt appearance at age 40–50. In consultation we honestly assess whether your face truly needs it, or whether alternatives such as contouring with hyaluronic acid or lipofilling are a better fit.
Are you a candidate?
- Your face has real volume in the cheek-to-jaw area, not just "it feels round to me"
- You have genetically defined cheekbones that buccal fat removal will highlight
- Your weight is stable
- You have ruled out non-surgical alternatives with an aesthetic doctor
- You are over 25 (at younger ages the indication is rarely genuine)
Recovery
Swelling
Soft, cold diet. Prophylactic antibiotics. Antiseptic mouthwash.
Back to work
Some swelling still visible. Returning to work is possible.
Residual swelling
Barely noticeable by now. A photo at week 4 is quite representative.
Final result
Defined contour. Stable from 6 months onwards.