Will Buccal Fat return after surgery?

When you have Buccal Fat Removal surgery, it is a permanent solution to reducing the size of your cheeks. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, the removed fat will not return. That being said, there is the possibility of your full cheeks returning if there is excessive weight gain in the future, as Dr. Bhat does not take out the entire fat pad to avoid a hollowed-out appearance.

Can I eat after this procedure?

The first several days following your procedure will limit you to a liquid or semi-liquid diet. Try selecting soups, smoothies, Jell-O, yogurt, and other soft, easy-to-eat foods. You should stick to this diet for three to five days following your procedure, or at least until your follow-up appointment. During the first 7-10 days of your procedure, you should be able to eat semi-solid foods (such as bananas or mashed potatoes), and then be able to return to your normal diet after that. Some patients find chewing to be difficult or uncomfortable for the first three weeks following their surgery.

How many appointments will I need?

You should only require one surgical appointment. However, you will need to return to our office for a check-up with Dr. Bhat so that she can monitor your recovery process. As part of your personalized aftercare plan, Dr. Bhat will let you know the schedule for follow-up sessions.

Can I combine Buccal Fat Removal with other procedures?

Yes. Some of our patients choose to combine their Buccal Fat Removal with additional cosmetic procedures to enhance their desired appearance, such as a Facelift , Rhinoplasty , or even Facial Fat Grafting . If you are interested in combining procedures, please bring this up during your consultation with Dr. Bhat and she will be more than happy to discuss all of your options.

What are the risks associated with Buccal Fat Removal?

Dr. Bhat takes great pride in producing safe, successful results; however, buccal fat removal does come with some inherent risks to be aware of, including the following: Anesthesia risks Asymmetry Bleeding Infection Nerve or muscle injury Persistent pain Poor healing of incisions Prolonged swelling

Buccal Fat Removal In Tampa, FL | Ravive Plastic Surgery

Woman gazing straight ahead - Buccal Fat Removal

Introduction

Introduction to Buccal Fat Removal

Prominent buccal fat pads can contribute to an overly full face, sometimes referred to as “chipmunk cheeks”, and while cute on babies and children, having them as an adult can become a cause of concern for some people. At Ravive Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, Buccal Fat Removal is becoming increasingly popular for those with larger, fuller cheeks. As an experienced surgeon with a keen eye for symmetry, Dr. Deepa Bhat helps her patients achieve a slimmer and softer-looking face with this surgical procedure.

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal Fat Removal (medically referred to as a Bichectomy), is a surgical technique that can reduce the size of larger cheeks by removing the buccal fat tissue and accentuating the natural contours of your face. The buccal fat pads are deep fat in the cheeks and fill in the deep tissue spaces of your mouth. Their purpose is not fully clear, but they are hypothesized to act as a gliding pad for your chewing and facial movement needs.

After undergoing the removal procedure, patients typically see slimmer cheeks and a more contoured face.

Benefits of buccal fat removal in Tampa - woman holding head in hands

What are the Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal?

Some of the major benefits our Tampa Buccal Fat Removal patients have seen from their treatment include:

Achieving a more balanced overall facial shape
Creating a more slender, v-shaped lower facial contour
Enhancing the appearance of high cheekbones
Improving the definition of the cheeks and jawline
No visible scarring
Reducing excessive cheek fullness (“chipmunk cheeks”)

Who are the Best Candidates for a Buccal Fat Removal Procedure?

At Ravive Plastic Surgery, we believe that a great candidate for Buccal Fat Removal in Tampa, FL should have the following characteristics:

Be at a healthy and stable weight
Dislikes the fullness of their cheeks
Has a round, fuller face
In overall good physical health
Maintains realistic expectations for procedure results

What’s the First Step?

Getting Buccal Fat Removal in Tampa Bay can be a very rewarding procedure, especially if done in the expert hands of Dr. Deepa Bhat. If you’re interested in learning more about this surgical treatment and whether you are a viable candidate, your first step is to book a consultation by telephoning or contacting us via our online web form.

During your private consultation with Dr. Bhat, you will be able to ask any questions, learn more about the procedure, and have your cheeks examined. She will ask you some specific questions about your health, past surgeries, and medications. After discussing your options and offering her expert recommendations, Dr. Bhat will create your personalized procedure plan and our Patient Coordinator will help you schedule your surgery.

What to expect on the day of Buccal Fat Removal surgery

On the day of your Buccal Fat Removal in Tampa, the procedure will be performed either under local or general anesthesia, depending on your personal preferences and whether you are combining it with other procedures.

After using a numbing solution to make you more comfortable, Dr. Bhat will make a very small incision inside the cheek to identify the buccal fat pad. Excess fat is then gently extracted, and a few dissolvable stitches are placed to close the incision, and the procedure is complete.

The entire surgery generally takes under one hour, and results become evident after 1-4 months, as all residual swelling gradually dissipates and the skin in the buccal region contracts.

The entire surgery generally takes under one hour and results become evident after one to four months as the swelling subsides and the buccal space contracts.

Buccal Fat Removal Recovery

Once Dr. Bhat approves your discharge, you can go home. Most patients find recovery to be relatively easy, needing only one or two days of rest. It’s normal to experience mild pain and soreness that should subside after a few days.

Your cheeks will appear slightly fuller during the first week, however, they tend to return to their normal appearance after about seven days. Although the results are not immediately evident because of the swelling that takes place after the fat removal, it will continue to subside over the following weeks post-surgery, and improve over the next several months.

During recovery, it’s important to be careful and avoid biting down on the cheek area, so the incision can properly heal and sutures can dissolve. Dr. Bhat can also prescribe you some pain medication, and you can use ice packs which will help with swelling and discomfort.

How much does Buccal Fat Removal cost in Tampa?

The average cost of buccal fat removal in Tampa Bay, FL typically starts at $2,000 and can go up to around $5,000. The price can vary depending on anesthesia costs, surgeon fees, and more. The best way to get the most accurate cost will be to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bhat. During your consultation, our patient coordinator will be able to give you a detailed quote for surgery.

Why Choose Dr. Bhat?

When it comes to Buccal Fat Removal in Tampa and the surrounding area, it’s very important to choose the right surgeon to achieve safe and satisfying results. Dr. Deepa Bhat of Ravive Plastic Surgery is a top choice in the Tampa Bay area for multiple reasons. Not only does she possess exceptional skill in performing a Buccal Fat Removal with artistic precision, but she has also been fellowship-trained in aesthetic procedures – an achievement only given to those who have done an additional year of training exclusively in cosmetic procedures. This accolade makes Dr. Bhat one of the few aesthetic plastic surgeons in Florida to hold this esteemed title. While in fellowship, Dr. Bhat was trained extensively by world-renowned masters in plastic surgery, allowing her to carry these skills with her to serve her Tampa Bay patients.

Her unwavering commitment to delivering personalized care ensures that she takes the time to understand each patient’s unique goals and concerns, tailoring a customized treatment plan accordingly. Dr. Bhat’s warm and compassionate approach creates a comforting environment where patients feel supported throughout their journey, and her exceptional surgical skills have earned her a remarkable reputation in Tampa as she consistently prioritizes patient well-being and strives for the most natural-looking and beautiful results on the Gulf Coast.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are bothered by your fuller cheeks and would like to reduce their appearance, a Tampa Buccal Fat Removal could be a great surgical option! Dr. Bhat can reshape your lower face for a soft and beautiful result. She will tailor your procedure to match your goals and give you a natural look. Schedule your Buccal Fat Removal consultation at Ravive Plastic Surgery by calling our office directly or by using our website to request an appointment.

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Buccal Fat Remval FAQ’s

Your procedure questions answered.

When you have Buccal Fat Removal surgery, it is a permanent solution to reducing the size of your cheeks. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, the removed fat will not return.

That being said, there is the possibility of your full cheeks returning if there is excessive weight gain in the future, as Dr. Bhat does not take out the entire fat pad to avoid a hollowed-out appearance.
The first several days following your procedure will limit you to a liquid or semi-liquid diet. Try selecting soups, smoothies, Jell-O, yogurt, and other soft, easy-to-eat foods. You should stick to this diet for three to five days following your procedure, or at least until your follow-up appointment.

During the first 7-10 days of your procedure, you should be able to eat semi-solid foods (such as bananas or mashed potatoes), and then be able to return to your normal diet after that.

Some patients find chewing to be difficult or uncomfortable for the first three weeks following their surgery.
Yes. Some of our patients choose to combine their Buccal Fat Removal with additional cosmetic procedures to enhance their desired appearance, such as a Facelift, Rhinoplasty, or even Facial Fat Grafting. If you are interested in combining procedures, please bring this up during your consultation with Dr. Bhat and she will be more than happy to discuss all of your options.
Dr. Bhat takes great pride in producing safe, successful results; however, buccal fat removal does come with some inherent risks to be aware of, including the following:
- Anesthesia risks
- Asymmetry
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Nerve or muscle injury
- Persistent pain
- Poor healing of incisions
- Prolonged swelling

I had my very first Botox and lip filler done by Dr. Deepa Bhat. She is very caring and is the sweetest. She made the process seamless and painless! I had no anxiety over what I’m going to look like after because I knew I was in great hands of an aesthetic plastic surgeon. I LOVE the natural results! I look more youthful and refreshed. I highly recommend her!

- Angela

Dr. Bhat is an amazing surgeon (and person)! I had an extended tummy tuck and lipo 360 and I have never been happier with the way I look. I healed without issue, my scar looks fantastic and most importantly, Dr. Bhat was there for me every step of the way. I would recommend Dr. Bhat to anybody looking to gain self confidence through surgery.

- Rachel

I had the pleasure of seeing Dr. Bhat for lip filler and botox and it was a wonderful experience. She walked in the room with a warm smile and instantly put me at ease. She was very attentive and I felt that she really listened to my goals and desired outcome. She was gentle and meticulous and my lips turned out absolutely beautiful! My botox was placed perfectly as well. She made the experience easy and enjoyable. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone and will be going to see her for my future cosmetic needs!

- Amanda

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Patient Resources

We’re here to help, with a number of patient resources designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Read through the materials below, and don’t hesitate to reach out and set up your consultation to learn more about what we can do for you.