Many patients are surprised to learn that oral surgeons can offer buccal fat removal. Upon closer consideration, it becomes clear that there are few better suited to perform this procedure than oral specialists. When you work with the right oral surgeon, you can see a range of benefits of buccal fat removal. We outline these benefits below.
How to Maximize the Benefits
For the right patient, the buccal fat removal procedure can provide a wide range of benefits. However, a successful surgery requires working with a surgeon who deeply understands the face’s structures. To see benefits that can last for years, we recommend:
- Working with an honest surgeon who will inform you about what results to expect so you can make an empowered decision. Buccal fat removal does not suit every facial shape, so it is imperative that you discuss with your surgeon how the procedure will work for you.
- Choosing a surgeon with experience and skill. Look at the before-and-after photos of their past patients to understand what they can do for you.
- Following all post-procedure instructions. A smooth recovery leads to better results.
- Openly communicating with your surgeon. The more clearly your surgeon understands your goals, the better greater the likelihood they can make them a reality. Ask questions, and provide honest answers to the questions asked of you. The more you communicate, the better.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
The buccal fat removal procedure removes the fat pads that rest within the cheeks on either side of the face. Everyone has them, but they are more pronounced in some than others. Since no amount of diet and exercise can substantially shrink them, surgical removal is the best option for some patients. The benefits of buccal fat removal for these patients are outlined below.
Increased Cheekbone Definition
Cheekbones have long been associated with an alluring facial aesthetic. Many ideal candidates for buccal fat removal may have attractive cheekbones that are overshadowed by excess buccal fat. Removing these fat pads can enhance the definition of the cheekbones permanently.
If cheekbone definition is one of your main goals for buccal fat removal, be sure to communicate this to your surgeon. They can adapt the procedure to focus on this effect according to your goals.
Enhanced Facial Contours
Removing buccal fat can instantly add a new level of contour to the face. Many patients worry about how their cheeks can lend them a round or smooth appearance. Removing buccal fat creates new dips and slopes to both sides of the face that can have the effect of balancing facial features.
Patients can then further highlight these contours with makeup and accessories. Many patients appreciate the new doors this procedure opens for customizing their facial aesthetic.
Improvements to Facial Symmetry
Some candidates for buccal fat removal have differently-sized fat pads in their cheeks. Facial symmetry is regularly reported as a key factor in a person’s attractiveness. Precise fat removal procedures can make patients’ faces appear more symmetrical.
This benefit, in particular, requires working with an experienced oral surgeon. Even minor errors in removing buccal fat can actually increase facial asymmetry, so it is crucial to work with a surgeon who deeply understands how the face will respond to the procedure.
Elimination of “Chipmunk Cheeks”
The term “chipmunk cheeks” refers to a facial shape that always looks like there is something in your cheeks. Many patients feel that such a facial shape affects how they are perceived and how people interact with them. This is likely due to a general association of plumper cheeks with children and infants. Patients with very round cheeks who feel that they are more often—intentionally or otherwise—treated like a child may benefit from buccal fat removal.
Boosts to Self-Confidence
All the previously mentioned benefits lead to the main desire of most buccal fat removal patients: a boost to self-esteem. Achieving a face shape that you love can make you feel more confident in every occasion. Increased confidence, in turn, radiates benefits into every corner of your life, from leisure to work and everything in between.
That said, it is important to approach this procedure with a healthy mindset. Understand that the procedure is intended to highlight features that already make you unique rather than to create an entirely new image.
Work With a Skilled Oral Surgeon
At Smile Specialists CA, our oral surgeon provides custom buccal fat removal. Book a consultation to learn more about this increasingly popular procedure.