The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons
For those seeking a more sculpted facial appearance, buccal fat removal is a procedure designed to refine and slim the lower cheeks and enhance natural contours. FSPS member surgeons throughout Florida are trained in advanced facial aesthetic procedures to help patients achieve a more defined, elegant look with lasting results.
Andrew H. Rosenthal, MD, FACS
Buccal fat removal is a minor surgical procedure that reduces fullness in the lower cheeks by removing or reducing the buccal fat pads—naturally occurring pockets of fat located between the facial muscles. While some people enjoy fuller cheeks, others feel it makes them look heavier or round-faced even when they are lean. These fat pads often droop or herniate with time and can be a useful add on procedure to a face or neck lift.
By carefully reducing these fat pads, surgeons can help create a slimmer, more contoured facial silhouette—especially in patients whose facial structure is obscured by excess cheek fullness. This procedure is commonly performed under local anesthesia, with minimal downtime, when performed on its own.
You may be a good candidate for buccal fat removal if you:
An FSPS surgeon will evaluate your facial structure and discuss your goals. They will determine whether buccal fat removal alone—or in combination with other procedures like chin augmentation or jawline contouring—will help achieve your aesthetic vision.
Typically performed in the office or as an outpatient procedure, buccal fat removal involves a small incision inside the cheek, through which the fat pad is gently teased out and reduced. No external scars are visible. The procedure often takes under an hour.
After surgery, mild swelling, soreness, and temporary numbness are common. Patients can typically resume light activity within a day or two. Cold compresses and a soft diet are usually recommended during the initial healing phase.
Your surgeon will schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure optimal results. Most swelling resolves within a few weeks, though final results may take 2–3 months to fully reveal the new contour.
Buccal fat removal delivers subtle but significant improvements in facial definition. Patients often report that their cheekbones appear more prominent and their face looks slimmer and more sculpted. These results are considered permanent, although natural aging and weight changes can still influence facial appearance over time.
While generally safe, potential risks include infection, asymmetry, over-resection, or injury to facial nerves or ducts. Choosing an experienced, board-certified FSPS surgeon is critical to achieving safe, natural-looking outcomes.
Costs vary based on location, surgeon experience, and whether the procedure is combined with other treatments. Your surgeon will provide a tailored quote during consultation.
Discomfort is typically minimal. Most patients experience only mild soreness, similar to that of a dental procedure.
In the right candidate, buccal fat removal enhances facial contour without causing premature aging. Your FSPS surgeon will help assess whether it’s right for your facial structure.
What Should I Do Next?
Schedule a consultation with a board-certified FSPS member plastic surgeon and discover how buccal fat removal can help you achieve the refined, confident look you desire.