Introduction
The buccal fat area is generally referred to as the outward curve in the cheeks. The function of buccal fat is to pad, protect, and provide the cheek muscles with a certain lift and volume to prevent them from being chewed on. Some individuals’ buccal pads are larger in proportion to their facial anatomy, causing them to have a “baby face” roundness. To decrease facial roundedness, they may be interested in buccal fat removal.
Founded by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Subbio, Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa has become the one-stop shop for cosmetic and aesthetic procedures in Philadelphia, including buccal fat removal. At our distinguished practice on the Main Line in Newtown Square, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lana Feldman specializes in this procedure, helping patients redefine their facial contours.
Buccal Fat Removal, also known as Bichectomy, is a highly sought-after cosmetic surgical procedure that can chisel the curves of your face to minimize the appearance of “chipmunk cheeks.” The procedure helps patients achieve the desirable “high cheekbone” look. Dr. Feldman at Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa is known to have the skilled and artistic expertise to help streamline the mid-face.
Some of the major benefits our Buccal Fat Removal patients have seen from their treatment include:
You could be a great candidate for Buccal Fat Removal if you have the following characteristics:
Buccal Fat Removal First Step
The first step in Buccal Fat Removal surgery at our Philadelphia office is a personalized evaluation and consultation with Dr. Feldman to determine if this procedure is right for you. During your appointment, Dr. Feldman will discuss your medical history and your aesthetic goals. To manage your expectations, she will outline the procedure, techniques, and outcomes in detail. She will then assess your face and cheeks to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. If you decide to move forward, Dr. Feldman will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your desired results.
If you are satisfied with the plan Dr. Feldman creates for you and would like to proceed with the procedure, our Patient Care Coordinator will schedule your surgical date and provide pre-surgery instructions.
On the day of surgery, Dr. Feldman and her expert team will welcome you at the surgical center and get you settled in the procedure room. They will recap the treatment plan in case you have any outstanding questions or concerns. Finally, depending on your preferences, the anesthetist will administer local or general anesthesia for your comfort.
Once sedated, your mouth will be propped open at a comfortable level, and your cheek will be gently pulled back. Dr. Feldman will make a tiny incision on the inner cheek to target the buccal fat pad. Once identified, she gently extracts the fat from its pocket. Once the pad is removed, Dr. Feldman will use dissolvable sutures to seal the incision.
*On average, the entire surgery should take under one hour without complications.
After surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room until your sedation wears off. For your utmost safety, you are encouraged to have a friend or relative give you a ride home, as you may still be recovering from anesthesia for the rest of the day.
Most patients find recovery to be easy and to take about one or two days. You can expect some mild swelling and soreness, which will resolve within the week. You are encouraged to use cold compresses to support healing and minimize movement and usage of your mouth. During recovery, it’s important not to bite down on the cheek area so the incision can heal properly and the sutures can dissolve. For any pain, we recommend you take pain medication as needed.
As your swelling subsides, your results will be seen as early as two to four weeks post-surgery and progressively improve for several months thereafter.
The cost of Buccal Fat Removal in Philadelphia will depend on multiple factors, including the techniques used, the complexity of your case, the anesthesia fees, and the surgeon fees. The best way to determine a final cost for your procedure is to consult with Dr. Lana Feldman. Our Patient Care Coordinator will provide you with a complete breakdown of the total price once your personal treatment plan is created.
Subbio Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa in Philadelphia has established a reputation as a leader in cosmetic surgery in the area. Its founding inspiration includes service, impact, and the importance of boosting self-esteem for its clients.
Founder and board-certified plastic Surgeon Dr. Christian Subbio was inspired to become a surgeon after learning about plastic surgeons who volunteer their skill and artistic vision to help cleft lip and burn victims in India. Once he became a surgeon, he began volunteering and traveling to third-world countries to follow in their footsteps and give back to those in need. Dr. Christian Subbio is Board-certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery by the prestigious American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Robert H. Ivy Society of Plastic Surgeons (RHIS).
Our buccal fat removal plastic surgeon, Dr. Lana Feldman, is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Feldman combines surgical excellence with a warm, personalized touch that puts patients at ease from their very first consultation.
Plastic Surgery in Philadelphia
If you desire a more chiseled cheekbone area, consider learning more about buccal fat removal at our office in Newtown Square, PA. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Feldman to learn more about this simple procedure that has transformative effects on a person’s self-esteem. Please call our practice or submit an online form to schedule your appointment, and a member of our team will contact you.
