BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL

Buccal Fat removal is a clinic procedure that is performed to produce a slimmer face.  This is performed under local anesthesia through an incision inside the mouth.   The procedure is ideal for patients who typically present with "chubby cheeks", "chipmunk face" or "cherubic face."

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What can a Buccal Fat Removal do for me?

 

Buccal fat removal, in combination with a BOTOX injection into the masseter muscle, produces a slimmer face.

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Buccal Fat Intended Results

 

A less cherubic face and slimmer face that may accentuate one's cheeks.

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What won’t a Buccal Fat Removal correct?

 

Buccal fat removal will not correct or remove "prejowls or jowls."

It may not completely slim down one's face if one's face is very cherubic.

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How is a Buccal Fat Removal performed?

 

Buccal fat removal is performed through an intra-oral incision.  Local anesthesia is first injected into the area.  A small incision is then made inside the mouth, and the buccal fat is then identified and removed.  Not all buccal fat can be removed since part of the buccal fat is located in the temporal area.  The wound is subsequnetly closed with an absorbable suture.

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The Buccal fat removal is typically performed in conjunction with a BOTOX injection into the masseter to improve the results of slimming one's face.

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Are there different techniques to perform a Buccal Fat Removal?

 

There are two techniques in performing a buccal fat removal.  One technique is performed through a facelift incision on the face during a facelift procedure.  The most common technique is an incision inside the mouth towards the back of the oral cavity near the second upper molar.

 

What is the recovery from a Buccal Fat Removal like?

 

The recovery ranges from 1-2 days. Typically patients are able to go back to work the following day.

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How long do the effects of a Buccal Fat Removalt last?

 

Once the buccal fat is removed, the fat would no longer come back.  The BOTOX injection to the masseter to slim the face lasts around 3 to 6 months.

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What are the risks of Buccal Fat Removal?

 

Possible complications of Buccal Fat Removal include: bleeding, infection, bruising, uneven swelling or discoloration, allergic reaction to the anesthesia, parotid duct injury (very rare), and temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the face (rare). Dr. De La Cruz will discuss the risks and benefits of a Buccal fat removal with you before your surgery. Dr. De La Cruz will also discuss with you which technique would be best suited to your goals and would give the best possible outcome that would give a more rested and youthful face.

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» Schedule your Face Lift Consultation with Dr. De La Cruz today by calling 832.7761134