Facial aesthetics have changed, and more men are considering treatments for better delineation of the jawline and an overall well-contoured face. Among the newest and fast-rising trends in facial aesthetics, buccal fat removal for men shapes the lower cheek area into a more slim and sculpted look. Understanding what to expect from the procedure before and afterward can help individuals make informed decisions and achieve natural, balanced results.
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that removes the fat pads in the lower cheeks; these are known as the buccal fat pads. These fat pads add to a round, full appearance of the face in younger people but at times can give a fuller, rounder, and less defined look in men as they age.
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia or light sedation, and generally involves a small incision inside the mouth. No visible scars appear outside the mouth. Unlike temporary treatments, like botox, buccal fat removal is used as a treatment to help create a longer-lasting change in facial contour.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Not all male patients are candidates for buccal fat removal. Candidates may include males who:
Have naturally fuller cheeks that impact facial definition
Want a more angular or sculpted jawline
Are in good overall health
Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
A consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon will help determine if buccal fat removal in men is suitable for the person seeking the surgery, along with discussing complementary treatments to optimize the outcome.
Before the Procedure: What to Know
Preparation for buccal fat removal may include the following:
Consultation and Planning: Involve assessment of the facial structure and its proportions to achieve a natural balance.
Health Assessment: Patients may require blood tests and a review of medications before the surgery to minimize risks.
Lifestyle Changes: It is advisable to avoid smoking and other medications like anticoagulants, which impede blood clotting.
Understanding these steps helps patients feel confident and prepared for their procedure.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Buccal fat removal is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Key points include:
Incisions: Small cuts are made inside the mouth to avoid visible scars.
Fat Removal: A part of the buccal fat pad is carefully removed by the surgeon to achieve the desired contour.
Duration: It is generally under an hour, based on the anatomy and goals of the patient.
Comfort: The surgery is performed with the patient under either local anesthesia or light sedation; thus, discomfort is minimal during the surgery.
Emphasis is always on maintaining natural facial balance while refining the lower cheek area.
Recovery and Care after the Procedure
Recovery from buccal fat removal is usually uncomplicated, although some mild swelling and bruising are to be expected in the first week. Tips for recovery include:
Follow post-operative instructions: surgeons give detailed guidelines concerning oral hygiene and diet during the process of healing.
Manage Swelling: Cold compresses and prescribed medications can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Avoid Strenuous Activity: The patient should avoid heavy physical exertion for a couple of weeks to ensure better recovery.
Many patients will start to notice subtle improvements in facial contour within the first few weeks, and the results are generally more defined as swelling continues to subside.
Buccal Fat Removal Before and After: What to Expect
Reviewing before and after buccal fat removal results, patients commonly may notice that:
Improved jawline definition
Slimmer, more sculpted cheeks
Improved balance between the midface and the lower face
Natural facial contours without an overdone look
Results will also vary depending on individual anatomy, surgical technique, and healing patterns. The change is usually permanent; however, as aging continues, the facial skin will sag, and the appearance may be altered with time.
Complementary Treatments
Some individuals prefer to combine buccal fat removal with other minimally invasive treatments, such as Botox treatment, to refine the jawline further, reduce muscle bulk, or smooth fine lines around the lower face. It's always good to discuss these options with a qualified surgeon to ensure that any further treatments are safe and in good harmony with the results of buccal fat removal.
Why Choosing an Experienced Surgeon Matters
It is essential to choose a board-certified facial plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in male facial aesthetics. The facial anatomy of men is different from that of women, and an accomplished surgeon will ensure that buccal fat removal in men accentuates the natural contours of the face without giving it an overly hollowed or unnatural appearance.
In a proper consultation, patients understand the realistic outcomes, recovery expectations, and other possible complementary treatments, such as Botox treatment.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
To begin the consultation process regarding buccal fat removal and how it will improve one's facial contours, one needs to schedule an appointment with an experienced surgeon. View how before and after buccal fat removal results can create a balanced, natural, and refined appearance tailored to your individual goals.
Meet Dr.Ardesh
Dr. Ardesh, Beauty Mark MD, a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has delivered over 7,000 natural results with expertise and empathy. He formerly served as a college professor in the departments of head and neck surgery, ophthalmology, and dermatology at Loma Linda University, after which he established his private practice. Creating a refreshed look, not “worked on,” has established him as one of the best plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach.
