The features on your face are often the first things another person notices about you and they can be your most defining characteristics. Often they are one of the most important factors that determine how you look and feel about yourself. Today, some various techniques and procedures are designed specifically for enhancing one’s facial features.
You are probably aware of procedures such as Botox injections, dermal fillers, and techniques like microneedling and microdermabrasion, but are you familiar with facial cheek liposuction or buccal fat removal? These lesser-known procedures can help significantly change the appearance of the contour of your face and can help address certain concerns. you may have. These procedures can produce varied outcomes depending on which sections are targeted and the procedure utilized.
Today we will look at a couple of procedures that can remove undesirable fat from your chin, neck, or cheek area: liposuction and buccal fat removal.
Why Would Someone Choose Liposuction Of The Cheeks?
Cheek liposuction is a technique that gets rid of extra fat that is causing aesthetic issues in certain areas of your face, such as the apple of your cheek, jowls, down the jaw, and in the double chin area to leave you with a more definitive line between your neck and face as well as a more sculpted look.
During cheek and chin lipo, tiny incisions are made in the target areas, and a long, skinny suction tube (cannula) is inserted through the incision to suction the unwanted fat away. This technique works very well for people with localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise.
What Is The Difference Between Cheek Liposuction vs. Buccal Fat Removal?
While cheek liposuction can reduce fat from assorted areas of the face removing buccal fat specifically targets a particular area on the cheeks known as buccal fat pads. These areas can make you look like you have a very round or chunky face and are often referred to as “chipmunk cheeks”.
Little incisions are created on the inside of your mouth which will be used by the surgeon to reach the pockets of fat. Next, the surgeon will take out some or all of the fat pad to sculpt a more chiseled contoured appearance. This is a good way to achieve a softer, and less rounded face.
Both of these focus on fat removal but target different areas of the face and use different techniques.
Cheek Liposuction: Focuses on reducing fat along the edge of your face as well as under your chin to separate this area and create more definition between the jaw and neck as well as reduce a double chin. Buccal Fat Removal: Targets extra fat that is located on the cheeks for a slimmer, more sculpted mid-face appearance.
What Are The Benefits Of Facial Cheek Liposuction vs. Buccal Fat Removal?
Cheek liposuction can correct some aesthetic imperfections that you are unhappy with. Some of the benefits associated with this procedure include:
- Reduce Excess Fat
- Some people may naturally store extra fat in the cheeks and lower face, giving them a fuller or rounder appearance. Liposuction of the cheeks can help reduce this extra fat and give the face a more sculpted and defined contour.
- Facial Balance
- Cheek liposuction can help create a more proportionate balance between the cheek area and other facial features.
- Age-Related Changes:
- As people age, the distribution of fat in the face can change. Some individuals experience fat accumulation in certain places, like the jowls or lower cheeks, which can contribute to an aged or tired appearance. Lower cheek liposuction can help reverse these changes and provide a more youthful look.
- Enhancing Jawline Definition
- Removing excess fat from the lower face, under the chin, and from the cheek area can enhance the definition of the jawline and create a more chiseled appearance.
Buccal fat elimination is a more targeted approach to facial fat removal and can provide benefits such as:
- Facial Contouring
- Buccal fat removal can make your face and cheeks look more sculpted and defined. It can produce a more chiseled, angular look, particularly if you desire a pronounced cheekbone structure.
- Removes the look of “Chubby” Cheeks
- If your cheeks appear fuller or you have rounder cheeks, you may opt for buccal to achieve a slimmer facial profile. This can be especially appealing if you have struggled with having a “baby face” or rounded cheeks your whole life and throughout adulthood.
- Enhancement of Facial Symmetry
- By reducing the volume of these pads of fat, this targeted technique can help create better facial symmetry. The surgeon can reduce just a portion of the lower fat pad, leaving the upper region intact, thereby providing a more sculpted cheek area.
- Aging Prevention
- Some people opt for buccal fat removal as a preventive measure against age-related sagging and drooping of the cheeks. By removing excess fat, the skin may maintain a tighter and more youthful appearance as the person ages.
What Is Recovery Like?
The initial recovery period for cheek liposuction is usually around 1–2 weeks. During this time, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which may peak within the first few days and gradually subside over the following weeks. Pain medication prescribed by the surgeon can help manage any pain or discomfort.
Compression garments will be recommended to aid in your recovery process. These garments can be designed to fit around your head and might include your neck and jaw, depending on the area that was treated.
Many patients are able to resume working and easy activities within a week or two, but it’s important to avoid strenuous activities and exercise for a few weeks to allow for proper healing.
The final results of cheek liposuction become more apparent as swelling subsides, which can take several weeks to a few months. Patients can expect a more defined and contoured facial appearance.
Recovery after buccal fat removal is also around 1–2 weeks. Bruising and swelling are common during the early recovery period. Prescribed medications can be used to help alleviate your discomfort, as well as instructions on how to use ice packs.
You will use a special mouthwash to prevent infection and will be provided with instructions on how frequently to use it. You will also be given directions regarding what you can eat and drink for the initial portion of your recovery, and some doctors want you to elevate your head for a period of time.
A liquid diet is advised for a few days to a week post-surgery to avoid putting stress on your incisions. Strenuous activities and exercise should also be avoided during the initial healing period. After buccal fat is removed the outcome becomes more apparent as swelling decreases, but it may take up to six months for the full results to be visible.
Choosing Between the Procedures
The decision between cheek liposuction and buccal fat removal ultimately depends on your specific goals and the way your face is structured. You should speak with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in order to figure out the most suitable procedure for you. Dr. Angelina Posteov will examine the unique features of your face and talk to you about what you wish to accomplish and together you will come up with an effective plan of action.
If you have struggled with a “baby face” or are noticing signs of aging that are making you unhappy like droopy jowls, loose, or sagging skin, SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics can help. Dr. Angelina is an expert in cosmetic facial techniques, and the combination of her skill and artistry delivers excellent results.
Book a consultation with SurgiCare Arts & Aesthetics today and speak to a professional and knowledgeable team member to discover a wide range of options that can enhance your natural beauty and give you a boost of self-confidence.
