Some people are blessed with perfect cheekbones and a sharp jawline. However, not all of us are satisfied with the way our cheeks look. Sometimes, the shape of one’s cheek can make one feel overly conscious of their looks.
Many people complain of fat or chubby cheeks that almost look round. The cause behind this is buccal fat, more commonly known as cheek fat.
What Is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat is nothing but fat deposits in the lower-cheek portion of the face. This gives the cheeks a plumper appearance.
Why Does It Form?
“Chipmunk cheeks” can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the major factors contributing to the issue is obesity. However, genetic factors also play a big role in the shape of your face.
Weight gain and sleep deprivation can be two factors in the formation of rounded cheeks. When someone gains weight, it is usually stored as fat around the body, including the face. A lack of sleep can also contribute to this problem, as the body may not be able to burn off excess calories due to fatigue. Both of these issues can lead to an increase in cheek buccal fat, resulting in the appearance of facial fullness.
How To Get The Perfect Chiseled Appearance
People with excess buccal fat can come in for cheek reduction surgery, also known as buccal fat removal surgery, to achieve an ideal chiseled appearance.
Miami buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure that helps to reduce the size of the cheeks. It is done by removing some of the buccal fat to create a slimmer, more defined look. This procedure can be done as an outpatient procedure and doesn’t require a long recovery time.
Candidate for Cheek Reduction
Candidates for cheek reduction should have realistic expectations when it comes to the procedure. The surgery is meant to create a more sculpted look, rather than eliminating chubbier cheeks or boxy appearances. Those seeking cheek reduction should understand that they won’t be able to transform their face into something unrecognizable. While some may see dramatic results, others may only experience subtle changes in the shape of their face.
It is essential to consult with a plastic surgeon before undergoing buccal fat removal surgery, as they can provide insight into the patient’s facial appearance and medical history. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient’s face and determine if cheek reduction is right for them. Afterward, they will provide personalized care instructions on how to prepare for the surgery and what to expect during recovery.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
This surgery is mostly performed in a surgeon’s office, in the outpatient surgery center, or sometimes in a hospital setting. It’s a minor surgery that typically takes less than 45 minutes to be performed.
During the procedure, local anesthesia is administered. The surgeon then makes a small incision between the cheek and the gums. The main cheek muscle is thus exposed, and the surgeon has gained access to the fatty tissue in the cheek hollows.
Using extreme pressure under the cheekbone, the surgeon then exposes the buccal fat through the incision. Using surgical knives and tweezers the fat is teased out. After an adequate amount of fat is removed, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.
Recovery and Results
Generally, it does not take long to heal from this procedure, often only a few days. During recovery, you may find the area around your mouth to be numbed. You may have difficulty chewing for a few days.
A degree of swelling, bruising, and inflammation may be present, but this will be temporary. There may be some discomfort and pain, so the doctor will prescribe antibiotics and pain medication to avoid infections and relieve any post-surgery discomfort.
Your body will require rest after this surgery. Any strenuous exercises should be avoided to get the best results and avoid complications while the skin is healing.
For fast and effective recovery from cheek reduction, one should consider following a liquid diet for the first few days. This can include clear liquids such as broth, sports drinks, juices, and smoothies. During this time it is important to stay hydrated and ensure that the body is getting enough nutrients. Eating soft foods like mashed potatoes and oatmeal are also recommended as they are easy to digest and provide essential carbohydrates. Once the swelling has subsided, more solid foods may be introduced back into one’s diet.
The results of buccal fat removal are usually visible immediately, although it may take several weeks for the full effects to be seen.
Maintaining Your Results
Maintaining the results of buccal fat pad reduction requires a healthy lifestyle. Keeping a healthy weight is key, and cardio exercise should be included in your routine. Also important is keeping sodium intake in check to reduce water retention and bloating which can undo the results of the cosmetic procedure. It is important to avoid alcohol consumption as this can lead to facial puffiness which can undo the hard work of surgery.
In addition, facial exercises can help tone the muscles around your cheeks and jawline, further enhancing your chiseled features. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure long-lasting, beautiful results from your cheek reduction surgery.
Schedule an Appointment
When selecting your facial plastic surgeon for buccal fat removal Miami, you must make sure that the surgeon you choose is a trusted one and has an experienced hand in the surgical procedure. This will ensure that you get the best quality services for your investment.
When you choose Dr. Anthony Bared, a skilled double-board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience, you’ll receive the care you deserve and results you can be proud of. Dr. Bared will be happy to help you address excess cheek fat. To get started, contact us and schedule a consultation today!