what is buccal fat removal

Buccal fat removal, also known as buccal fat pad extraction or cheek reduction, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes a piece of buccal fat-pad tissue from each side of the face, reducing the appearance of cheek puffiness and creating a sharper jawline. The amount of fat removed varies based on the desired facial shape, and the procedure is irreversible. Buccal fat removal is generally a safe procedure, but there is a lack of research on its long-term health effects. The surgery is typically performed by plastic surgeons and is often done in combination with other facial cosmetic surgery procedures. The decision to have plastic surgery is a personal one, and it is best to consider plastic surgery only if you truly desire to modify your appearance and not because someone else wants you to. Buccal fat removal is not recommended for everyone, and people with narrow faces or those over a certain age may not be good candidates for the procedure. The surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia, and the incision is made inside the patients mouth to remove a fat pad the size of a medium grape. The procedure is considered an elective plastic surgery procedure with no medical benefit and is rarely covered by insurance.