Face
Buccal Fat Removal (Bichectomy)
Buccal fat removal takes out part of the buccal fat pads to slim the lower cheeks. It may suit rounder faces depending on facial morphology, which is assessed in consultation.
What is it?
Buccal fat removal (bichectomy) is an aesthetic surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the face by removing the buccal fat pads, fatty deposits located in the cheeks. By reducing the fatty volume of the cheeks, it slims the lower face and brings out the cheekbones; the effect depends on the starting morphology.
Process
Initial consultation
During your first consultation, your surgeon will discuss your aesthetic goals and assess your suitability for buccal fat removal.
Planning the procedure
Based on the initial consultation, the surgeon will establish a personalized procedure plan.
Surgical procedure
Buccal fat removal is generally performed under local anesthesia. The procedure lasts about an hour.
Recovery
The recovery period varies depending on each individual, but most patients can resume their normal activities within 2 weeks following the procedure.
Final results
The final results of buccal fat removal are generally visible after a few months, once the swelling has completely disappeared.
Why choose our clinic?
Recognized expertise
Our team of surgeons has recognized expertise in the field of aesthetic facial surgery.
Personalized planning
We offer an individualized approach to each patient. This starts with a complete consultation and continues with postoperative follow-up.
Advanced techniques
The procedure is performed via an internal approach, with techniques suited to each patient's anatomy.
Expected results
1 hDuration of the procedure80 %Recovery after 2 weeks90 %Recovery after 1 month
Before / after results
Buccal fat removal: definition and role of the buccal fat pads
Buccal fat removal (bichectomy) is a facial cosmetic surgery procedure that involves partially removing the buccal fat pads in order to slim the middle of the face and highlight the cheekbones.
What are the buccal fat pads?
The buccal fat pads are deposits of fat located deep in each cheek, between the muscles of chewing. They contribute to the volume and roundness of the cheeks. When they are prominent, they can give the face a full appearance. Buccal fat removal takes away part of them in a measured way to sculpt a more defined face.
Goals of the procedure
- Slim the lower and middle part of the cheeks.
- Accentuate the definition of the cheekbones.
- Redefine the contour of the face for a more sculpted appearance.
- Harmonize the proportions of the face according to the morphology.
The procedure must remain measured: the goal is a harmonious slimming and not an excessive transformation. The amount of fat removed is adapted to each face and discussed during consultation.
The right candidate, how it unfolds and precautions
Buccal fat removal is intended for people with full cheeks that they wish to slim. The indication is assessed individually, taking into account how the face evolves with age.
The right candidate
It is generally suitable for people whose cheeks are full due to prominent buccal fat pads. Conversely, for people with a naturally thin face, fat removal may be less indicated, as the face tends to hollow with age. Good general health and realistic expectations are important.
How the procedure unfolds
Buccal fat removal is generally performed under local anesthesia and most often lasts around an hour. Access is through a small incision inside the cheek, which avoids any visible scar on the face. The surgeon removes part of the buccal fat pad in a measured way, then closes with an internal suture.
Precautions
Like any procedure, buccal fat removal carries risks, minimized when it is performed by a qualified surgeon. Mouth care and dietary instructions are given for the days following the procedure in order to support internal healing.
Aftercare, results and durability
The most frequent questions concern recovery and how long it takes for the result to appear. The timeframes given are orders of magnitude that vary from one person to another.
The immediate aftermath
Swelling of the cheeks and slight discomfort are normal in the first days and gradually subside. A soft diet and appropriate mouth care are generally recommended at first. Most people resume their usual activities within a few days to two weeks.
Appearance of the result
The face may temporarily appear more swollen at first. The slimming becomes apparent as the swelling disappears, with the definitive result generally assessed after a few months.
Durability
The part of the buccal fat pad that is removed does not reform, which makes the result long-lasting. The appearance of the face nonetheless continues to evolve with natural ageing. A stable weight and a healthy lifestyle help preserve the result over time.
Realistic expectations, precautions and preparing your project
Buccal fat removal is a measured procedure that requires a good understanding of its limits. A clear dialogue with your surgeon contributes to a realistic project.
A procedure to dose cautiously
The removal of the buccal fat pads must remain moderate. Excessive removal can, over time and with natural ageing, accentuate a hollowed appearance of the face. This is why the indication and the amount removed are carefully assessed according to your morphology and the expected evolution of the face. The goal is a harmonious and lasting slimming, not an excessive transformation.
Precautions and aftercare
- Follow the mouth care and an appropriate diet in the first days.
- Report any medical history during the consultation.
- Follow the postoperative instructions to support internal healing.
- Plan a recovery period with temporary swelling of the cheeks.
Realistic expectations
Buccal fat removal slims the middle of the face and highlights the cheekbones, but it does not replace overall weight loss and does not change the bone structure. Depending on the goals, it can sometimes be part of a broader project, discussed on a case-by-case basis. A project approached openly, with realistic goals, is the best basis for lasting satisfaction.
Frequently asked questions
What is a buccal fat pad?
The buccal fat pads are deposits of fat located in each of our cheeks. They can give a round appearance to the face. Buccal fat removal allows these pads to be removed to slim the face.
What are the risks associated with buccal fat removal?
Like all surgical procedures, buccal fat removal carries certain risks, such as bleeding, infections or complications related to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimal when the procedure is performed by a qualified surgeon.
What is recovery like after buccal fat removal?
After buccal fat removal, you may feel some discomfort and swelling. However, most patients can resume their daily routine after a few weeks. The final results are generally visible a few months after the procedure.
Is the scar from buccal fat removal visible?
Buccal fat removal is performed from the inside, through a small incision made inside the cheek. There is therefore no visible scar on the face. The internal suture generally dissolves on its own. Your surgeon explains the procedure and the mouth care to follow afterwards.
Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?
Buccal fat removal is generally suitable for people with full cheeks related to prominent buccal fat pads who wish to slim the middle of the face. It is less indicated for people with a naturally thin face, as excessive fat removal can accentuate a hollowed appearance with age. Your surgeon assesses your morphology and your goals during the consultation.
Next step
Have questions?
Discuss your goals with our team during a personalised consultation.
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