Buccal Fat Removal
Bichectomy
Are you tired of having chubby cheeks that make you look older or heavier than you are? You’re not the only one - bichectomy is a popular cosmetic procedure that can slim down your face and enhance your facial features. Bichectomy has a 90% worth it rate, meaning that most people who have done it are satisfied with the outcome. If you’re thinking about bichectomy, book a free consultation right now.




What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Bichectomy, also known as buccal fat removal, is a surgery that removes excess fat from the cheeks, specifically from the buccal fat pads that are located deep inside the cheek area. The purpose of this surgery is to reduce the roundness or fullness of the face and to create a more defined and sculpted look, with more prominent cheekbones and a slimmer jawline. It can also make the face look younger, as sagging cheeks are a sign of aging.
Bichectomy is a simple, low-risk, and outpatient procedure that takes about 30 minutes to perform. The surgeon makes a small incision inside each cheek and extracts the fat tissue with a special instrument. The incision is then closed with absorbable stitches that dissolve on their own. There is no visible scar or mark on the outside of the face.
People who choose to have bichectomy usually do so for aesthetic reasons, as they are unhappy with their chubby or round faces and want to have a more angular and attractive appearance. Some people may also have bichectomy for medical reasons, such as having a congenital condition that causes excessive buccal fat or having difficulty chewing or speaking due to enlarged cheeks.
Bichectomy can be a great option for people who want to enhance their facial features and boost their self-confidence.
Benefits of Bichectomy
- Bichectomy surgery can improve your facial harmony and balance. If you have chubby cheeks or a round face shape, bichectomy surgery can help you create more contrast and definition in your facial features. This can make your face look more proportional and symmetrical, which are considered attractive qualities by many people.
- Bichectomy surgery can boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. If you are unhappy with your facial appearance or feel insecure about your cheeks, bichectomy surgery can help you achieve your desired aesthetic and feel more comfortable in your own skin. Many patients report feeling more confident and satisfied with their appearance after bichectomy surgery, which can positively impact their personal and professional lives.
- Bichectomy surgery can have long-lasting results. Unlike other cosmetic procedures that require maintenance or touch-ups, bichectomy surgery can provide permanent results. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not grow back or regenerate. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of bichectomy surgery for a lifetime, without having to worry about additional costs or complications.
- Bichectomy surgery can be performed safely and effectively. Bichectomy surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done under local anesthesia or sedation. The incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars or stitches. The recovery time is relatively short and easy, with minimal pain and swelling. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few days after the surgery.
As you can see, bichectomy surgery can offer many benefits for people who want to improve their facial appearance and enhance their self-image. However, bichectomy surgery is not for everyone and it is important to consult with our patient coordinator before deciding to undergo this procedure. Our patient coordinators can evaluate your facial anatomy, medical history, expectations, and goals, and determine if bichectomy surgery is suitable for you. They can also explain the risks and potential complications of bichectomy surgery, as well as the pre-operative and post-operative care instructions.
If you are interested in learning more about bichectomy surgery or scheduling a consultation with one of our patient coordinators, please contact us today. We would love to help you achieve your dream smile and facial contour.
Types of Bichectomy
There are different types of bichectomy procedures available, depending on the desired outcome and the amount of fat to be removed. Here are some of the most common ones:
Partial bichectomy
This is the most popular type of bichectomy, as it allows for a subtle and natural-looking result. In this procedure, only a small portion of the buccal fat pad is removed, leaving some fat behind to avoid a sunken or hollow look. Partial bichectomy can create a slight contouring effect on the cheeks, enhancing the cheekbones and jawline.
Complete bichectomy
This is a more aggressive type of bichectomy, as it involves removing the entire buccal fat pad from both sides of the face. This procedure can create a dramatic and noticeable change in the facial shape, making it more angular and slim. Complete bichectomy can be suitable for those who have very large or prominent buccal fat pads, or who want a more dramatic transformation.
Customized bichectomy
This is a personalized type of bichectomy, and it involves removing different amounts of buccal fat from different areas of your cheeks. This can create a more balanced and harmonious result, but it can also be more complicated and expensive. Customized bichectomy is suitable for people who have uneven or asymmetrical buccal fat distribution and want to correct their facial proportions.
Bichectomy is a relatively simple and safe procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia and sedation. The surgery usually takes about an hour, and the recovery time is minimal. The incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars.
How to Choose the Best Type of Bichectomy for You
There are several factors that you should consider, such as:
- Your facial anatomy: The shape and size of your face, as well as the position and prominence of your cheekbones, will determine how much buccal fat you have and how it affects your appearance. You should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess your facial anatomy and recommend the best type of bichectomy for you.
- Your aesthetic goals: The type of bichectomy you choose should match your expectations and preferences. You should have a clear idea of what kind of result you want to achieve, whether it's subtle or dramatic, natural or artificial, youthful or mature. You should also consider how bichectomy will affect your overall facial harmony and balance.
- Your health and lifestyle: Bichectomy is a surgical procedure that requires anesthesia, incisions, stitches, and recovery time. You should be in good physical and mental health before undergoing bichectomy, and you should follow the post-operative instructions carefully to avoid complications and infections.
Buccal Fat Removal Surgery
Before the Bichectomy Surgery
Before you undergo bichectomy surgery, you will need to have a consultation with your surgeon. During this consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy, your medical history, your expectations, and your goals. They will also explain the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as the possible complications and side effects.
You will need to follow some instructions before the surgery to prepare yourself. These may include:
- Avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks before the surgery
- Stopping certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding or interfere with anesthesia
- Arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for the first night
- Fasting for at least eight hours before the surgery
- Wearing comfortable and loose clothing on the day of the surgery
During the Bichectomy Surgery
Bichectomy surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The surgery typically takes about an hour to complete.
The steps involved in bichectomy surgery are:
- Your surgeon will make a small incision inside your mouth, near the back of your cheek
- Your surgeon will locate and isolate the buccal fat pad through the incision
- Your surgeon will gently pull out and remove the buccal fat pad with surgical scissors or forceps
- Your surgeon will close the incision with dissolvable stitches
- Your surgeon will repeat the same steps on the other side of your face
After the Bichectomy Surgery
After bichectomy surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored for any signs of complications. You may experience some swelling, bruising, pain, and numbness in your cheeks. These are normal and temporary side effects that will subside gradually over time.
You will need to follow some post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and safe recovery. These may include:
- Applying ice packs to your cheeks to reduce swelling and inflammation
- Taking painkillers and antibiotics as prescribed by your surgeon
- Eating soft and bland foods for a few days
- Avoiding hot, spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods that may irritate your mouth
- Rinsing your mouth with salt water or antiseptic mouthwash after every meal
- Sleeping with your head elevated to prevent fluid accumulation
- Avoiding strenuous activities and exercise for at least two weeks
- Avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks
- Keeping your follow-up appointments with your surgeon
The results of bichectomy surgery are not immediate. It may take several weeks or months for the swelling to subside and for the final outcome to become visible. You may notice a subtle but noticeable difference in your facial shape and contour. The results of bichectomy surgery are permanent unless you gain a significant amount of weight or experience aging changes in your face.
Bichectomy surgery is a safe and effective way to enhance your facial appearance and boost your confidence. If you are interested in learning more about this procedure or scheduling a consultation with our patient coordinator, please contact us today.
Buccal Fat Removal Recovery
1 Week After Surgery
The most critical and challenging period. You will have a splint on your nose and some packing inside your nostrils to prevent bleeding and swelling. You will also have some bruising and swelling around your eyes and cheeks, which will peak around the third day and then gradually subside. You will need to keep your head elevated at all times and avoid any strenuous activity or pressure on your nose. You will also need to take painkillers and antibiotics as prescribed by your surgeon. You will have to visit your surgeon a few days after the surgery to remove the packing and check your progress. The splint will be removed after a week, and you will be able to see the initial shape of your new nose.
2 Weeks After Surgery
You will start to feel more comfortable and confident. You will still have some swelling and numbness on your nose, but it will be much less noticeable than before. You will be able to resume some of your normal activities, such as driving, working, or going out with friends. However, you should still avoid any contact sports or activities that could injure your nose. You should also avoid sun exposure or extreme temperatures, as they could affect your healing process. You should continue to follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your nose clean and moisturized.
3 Weeks After Surgery
You will see more improvement in your appearance and breathing. The swelling and numbness in your nose will continue to decrease, and you will be able to appreciate the finer details of your new nose. You will also notice that your breathing is easier and more comfortable than before. You will be able to resume most of your normal activities, except for those that could cause trauma or infection to your nose. You should still protect your nose from sun damage or cold weather by using sunscreen or wearing a hat.
4 Weeks After Surgery
You will reach a major milestone in your recovery. By this time, most of the swelling and numbness in your nose will be gone, and you will be able to see the final shape of your new nose. You will also feel more confident and happy with your appearance and breathing. You will be able to resume all of your normal activities, including exercise and sports. However, you should still be careful not to bump or hit your nose, as it could cause bleeding or damage.
3 Months After Surgery
You will have a follow-up visit with your surgeon. Your surgeon will examine your nose and assess your healing progress. He or she will also take some photos of your nose for comparison with the preoperative ones. You will be able to discuss any concerns or questions you might have with your surgeon, such as the final result, the scars, or the possibility of revision surgery.
6 Months After Surgery
You will have another follow-up visit with your surgeon. Your surgeon will check your nose again and make sure everything is healing well. He or she will also take some more photos of your nose for comparison with the previous ones. You will be able to see how much your nose has changed since the surgery and how it matches with the rest of your face.
1 Year After Surgery
You will have the last follow-up visit with your surgeon. Your surgeon will evaluate your nose one final time and confirm that everything is healed properly. He or she will also take some final photos of your nose for comparison with the preoperative ones. You will be able to appreciate the full effect of the surgery and how it has improved your appearance and breathing.
Risks and Complications
The recovery time for bichectomy is usually one to two weeks. You may experience some swelling, bruising, pain, and numbness in your cheeks and mouth for the first few days. You will need to eat soft foods and avoid spicy, acidic, or hot foods that may irritate your mouth. You will also need to rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day to prevent infection. You should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or taking blood thinners for at least two weeks after the surgery.
Bichectomy is generally a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it has some risks and complications. These include:
- Infection: This can occur if bacteria enter the incisions or if you do not follow proper oral hygiene. Signs of infection include fever, pus, redness, or increased pain in your mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact me immediately.
- Bleeding: This can occur if the incisions reopen or if you have a bleeding disorder. You may notice blood in your saliva or on your pillow. If you have excessive bleeding, you should apply pressure to your mouth with a clean cloth and seek medical attention.
- Nerve damage: This can occur if the nerves in your cheeks are injured during the surgery. This can cause temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or weakness in your cheeks or lips. This may affect your facial expressions or your ability to chew or speak.
- Asymmetry: This can occur if the amount of fat removed from each cheek is uneven or if one side heals differently than the other. This can result in an unbalanced or distorted facial appearance. You may need a revision surgery to correct this issue.
- Dissatisfaction: This can occur if you are unhappy with the results of the surgery or if you have unrealistic expectations. You should understand that bichectomy will not change your bone structure or facial features, but only reduce the fullness of your cheeks. You should also be aware that your face may change over time due to aging, weight fluctuations, or hormonal changes.
To minimize these risks and complications, you should follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. You should also choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who can perform the procedure safely and effectively.
Buccal Fat Removal Before After
Before and after photos of bichectomy procedures are a great way to see the difference that this surgery can make on your face. They can help you visualize how bichectomy can reduce the roundness or fullness of your cheeks and create more defined cheekbones, a sharper jawline, and a slimmer, more sculpted look . By looking at these photos, you can see how bichectomy can improve your facial harmony and balance your facial features. Check out our gallery of before and after photos to see the amazing results that are possible with bichectomy surgery.





