Buccal Fat Removal in Cleveland
For many individuals, a “baby face” or round, chubby cheeks can persist regardless of diet and exercise. This is often due to the buccal fat pad—a specific pocket of fat located in the lower cheek area that is largely determined by genetics.
Buccal Fat Removal, also known as a buccal lipectomy, is a precise surgical procedure performed by Dr. Rodney Green to reduce the volume of these pads. By thinning the lower cheek area, Dr. Green can reveal the underlying bone structure, creating the “hollowed” look and high-fashion contouring that many desire.
What is Buccal Fat Removal? (The "Instant Contour" Surgery)
Unlike general facial fat, the buccal fat pad does not fluctuate significantly with weight loss. It is a distinct mass of fat situated between the facial muscles.
The Goal
To reduce “fullness” in the lower cheeks and enhance the visibility of the cheekbones and jawline.
The Method
Dr. Green performs the entire procedure through the inside of the mouth, ensuring there are no external scars on the face.
The Precision
This is not about removing all the fat; it’s about strategic thinning. Dr. Green uses his decades of surgical experience to ensure the face remains balanced and youthful.
- Muscle Laxity: Repairing the “Diastasis Recti” (separated muscles).
- Skin Excess: Removing the “apron” of skin that often hangs over the waistline.
- Stubborn Fat: Contouring the flanks and abdomen for a narrower waist.
Why Choose Dr. Green? The "No-Drain" Advantage
One of the biggest concerns patients have regarding tummy tucks is the use of post-surgical drains. Dr. Green utilizes a sophisticated No-Drain Technique combined with a Progressive Tension Suture (PTS) method.
How it works: Dr. Green meticulously stitches the skin flap to the underlying muscles from the inside. This eliminates “dead space” where fluid (seroma) typically collects.
The Benefit: You wake up without cumbersome, painful tubes hanging from your incisions. This significantly simplifies your recovery, reduces the risk of infection, and results in a finer, more aesthetic scar.
Who is the Ideal Candidate?
Buccal fat removal is an outpatient procedure that typically takes about one hour.
Anesthesia
Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia for total comfort.
The Incision
Dr. Green makes a small, 1-2 cm incision inside the cheek, near the upper molars.
The Removal
The buccal fat pad is gently teased out and trimmed to the desired volume.
The Closure
The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures, meaning there are no stitches to remove later.
Recovery: What to Expect & Tips for Success
Recovery from buccal fat removal is relatively straightforward, as the work is contained within the mouth.
- The First 48 Hours: Expect your cheeks to look fuller initially due to swelling. You may feel like you’ve had dental work done.
- Dietary Care: You will be advised to follow a soft-food diet (think protein shakes, yogurt, and mashed potatoes) for the first few days to avoid irritating the incisions.
- Oral Hygiene: Dr. Green will provide a specialized mouthwash to keep the incision sites clean and prevent infection.
- Activity: Most patients return to work in 2 to 3 days. You should avoid strenuous exercise for about a week to prevent increased swelling.
Important Note on Your Recovery & Results
Every individual’s body is unique, and as such, recovery timelines and final aesthetic results will vary from patient to patient. Factors such as your natural facial structure, the size of your fat pads, and your skin’s ability to contract will influence the final outcome.
While Dr. Green and our team are here to support you every step of the way, your safety is a partnership. It is vital that you contact our office immediately at 440-449-8880 if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive pain, unexpected swelling, redness, or fever. Early communication ensures we can provide the necessary guidance to keep your recovery on track.
Buccal Fat Removal FAQs
Will I have any visible scars?
No. Because the incisions are placed inside the mouth, there are absolutely no visible marks on your face.
Is the result permanent?
Yes. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not grow back. Your new facial contours will remain permanent, though they can still be influenced by significant overall weight gain.
When will I see my "chiseled" look?
While you will see a change after the initial swelling subsides (about 2 weeks), the final “shrink-wrap” effect of the skin over the new contour takes about 3 to 4 months to be fully realized.
Can this be combined with other procedures?
Absolutely. Many patients combine buccal fat removal with Chin Reshaping or Neck Liposuction for a total lower-face transformation.
Consultation Checklist: Questions to Ask Dr. Green
- Based on my face shape, will buccal fat removal give me the “hollowed” look I desire?
- How much fat do you recommend removing to ensure I still look natural as I age?
- Are my concerns due to the buccal fat pad or overdeveloped jaw muscles (masseters)?
- What is the best way to manage oral hygiene during the first week of healing?
Achieve Your Dream Body With Our Experienced Surgical Team
We understand that your body is unique, and your goals for surgery are too. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical procedures to help you achieve your desired results.
Dr. Rodney Green is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and support. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and expectations.
Call us at 440-449-8880 or email us at drgreen@dr-rodgreen.com to take the first step toward the body of your dreams. to take the first step toward the body of your dreams.