Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery or a buccal lipectomy, is an aesthetic procedure designed to refine and contour the mid-face by reducing fullness in the lower cheeks. While some individuals have a naturally slimmer or more sculpted facial structure, others may be bothered by full, rounded cheeks that persist even with a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. Buccal fat removal targets a small, deep pad of fat located between the facial muscles — known as the buccal fat pad — to create a more chiseled and defined look along the cheekbones and jawline.

Buccal fat removal has become increasingly popular among men and women who want to gain a slimmer, more contoured look that enhances their natural bone structure. Acclaimed Draper plastic surgeon Jared Garlick, MD can tailor the buccal fat removal procedure to highlight your youthful facial angles according to your goals.

Buccal Fat Removal Benefits
Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
Buccal Fat Removal Recovery
Buccal Fat Removal Cost

What Concerns Can Buccal Fat Removal Improve?

Buccal fat removal is ideal for patients who are bothered by persistently full or “chipmunk” cheeks that make the face appear rounder than desired. Even individuals who are physically fit may have naturally larger buccal fat pads creating the illusion of excess weight in the lower face. By strategically removing a portion of these fat pads, buccal fat removal can improve several aesthetic concerns, including:

Excess cheek fullness or roundness that doesn’t respond to dieting or exercise
Lack of cheekbone definition, making the midface appear flat or wide
Softened jawline contour where the transition between the cheeks and jaw lacks distinction
Desire for a slimmer, more angular facial profile reminiscent of high-fashion or celebrity-inspired looks

The procedure is often sought out by patients who want to bring their facial features into better balance by enhancing cheekbones, refining the lower face, and achieving a more sculpted appearance overall. Good candidates for surgery have realistic expectations for their final results and a good understanding of the buccal fat removal process.

How is the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure Performed?

Buccal fat removal is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on a patient’s comfort and Dr. Garlick’s recommendation. During the procedure, a small incision — usually about one to two centimeters long — is made inside the mouth, along the inner lining of each cheek. Through this discreet incision, Dr. Garlick carefully exposes and removes a precise amount of the buccal fat pad. The incision is placed internally, so there are no visible scars.

The amount of fat removed is customized to each patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. Removing too much fat can create a hollow or gaunt appearance, so it’s critical for the procedure to be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon who has expertise in facial contouring. Once the fat is removed, the incision is closed with dissolvable sutures, and the patient can return home shortly after surgery. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour to complete.

What Can I Expect From the Buccal Fat Removal Recovery Period?

Recovery after buccal fat removal is generally mild and most patients return to their normal daily activities within a few days. Mild swelling, tenderness, and a sensation of tightness in the cheeks are common during the first week, but these effects gradually subside as healing progresses. Since incisions are inside the mouth, patients are typically advised to follow a soft or liquid diet for several days to minimize irritation and support healing.

Good oral hygiene is essential to reduce the risk of infection while incisions are healing. Dr. Garlick may recommend rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash and avoiding strenuous exercise until cleared. Most swelling improves significantly within two to three weeks, although final results can take several months to fully develop as residual swelling resolves and the cheek contours refine.

Patients can expect a noticeable improvement in facial definition once healed, typically revealing slimmer cheeks, enhanced cheekbones, and a more contoured lower face. The results of buccal fat removal are considered long-lasting, as the removed fat does not regenerate.

How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?

The cost of buccal fat removal can vary depending on several factors, including a surgeon’s experience, a patient’s geographic location, anesthesia fees, and whether the procedure is performed alone or in combination with other facial plastic surgery procedures like neck liposuction or a facelift. After evaluating your concerns in a consultation, our office will be able to give you a tailored cost estimate. We can also speak with you about plastic surgery financing options via Allē payment plans or PatientFi^{^®}, which can both provide qualified patients with more flexible payment options. Please call our office for any questions about the cost of buccal fat removal.

Buccal fat removal can accentuate the youthful contours of the mid-face and create sharper, more distinct cheekbones. If you have any questions about the treatment process, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Garlick today to schedule a consultation.