buccal fat removal

Buccal fat is a naturally occurring pad of fat nestled within each cheek, extending deeply between the facial muscles. In some individuals, this fat contributes to an overly rounded or soft facial contour, even when they are otherwise lean or fit.

During cheek contouring surgery, a small incision is made inside the mouth, allowing your surgeon to precisely access and reduce the buccal fat. This outpatient procedure is relatively quick, requires no external incisions, and results in a gradual, natural-looking improvement in facial shape over time.

The goal is to subtly transition the face from a round or boxy shape to a more sculpted “V-line” appearance — enhancing overall definition without compromising facial harmony.

Ideal candidates for buccal fat removal are adults in good overall health who are concerned with excess cheek fullness or a lack of definition in the lower face. This procedure is especially beneficial for patients with round, soft, or “baby face” features who desire a more sculpted and refined facial contour.

Our expert surgeons at VedaNu Wellness will tailor the amount of fat removed to suit your unique facial structure and goals. However, if your face is already narrow or lean, we may advise against buccal fat removal — as the natural aging process can result in fat loss over time, potentially making the face appear too hollow later in life.

Buccal fat removal is a relatively quick and straightforward outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia or sedation. Small incisions are made inside the mouth, through which your surgeon will carefully isolate and remove a precise amount of buccal fat — helping create a slimmer, more defined facial shape.

The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, and since they are made inside the mouth, there is no visible scarring.

While facial liposuction can also reduce fullness in the cheek or jawline area, buccal fat removal offers a more refined and natural-looking result in the mid-face. In some cases, it may be paired with micro-lipo or performed as a complement to other procedures such as a facelift or rhinoplasty for comprehensive facial contouring.

At VedaNu Wellness, your surgeon will help you determine the best surgical plan for your anatomy and goals during a one-on-one consultation.

As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries certain risks. These may include infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia, or — in rare cases — injury to nearby facial nerves, which could cause temporary numbness around the incision site.

Patients who smoke are at higher risk of complications. If you smoke, we strongly advise discontinuing use at least two weeks before surgery to promote better healing and reduce risk.

It’s also important to consider your age and facial structure. The face naturally loses volume with age, especially in the late 20s and 30s. Because buccal fat removal is permanent, removing fat too early in life may lead to a hollow or gaunt appearance in the future. If you're under 25 or have a slim face, our surgeons will carefully assess your candidacy and review your family history to determine whether your cheek fullness is genetic or age-related.

Buccal fat removal is performed as an outpatient procedure with a relatively short and simple recovery. Most patients experience minor swelling, bruising, and soreness, which typically resolves within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Because the incisions are made inside your mouth, there are no visible scars. However, you’ll need to avoid touching the sutures with your tongue and may find it more comfortable to eat soft or liquid foods during the early healing phase.

You may begin to notice improved facial definition almost immediately, but your final results will continue to refine as swelling subsides over the next several weeks. Most patients return to their regular activities within 1–2 days.

Our team at VedaNu Wellness will provide detailed aftercare instructions and let you know when to return for your follow-up appointment.

At VedaNu Wellness, we combine world-class surgical expertise with a personalized, wellness-centered approach. Our board-certified plastic surgeons are known for their precision, aesthetic artistry, and dedication to helping patients feel confident and empowered.

We don’t just remove fat — we sculpt your features to reveal a natural, balanced look that reflects your true self. Whether you’re pursuing buccal fat reduction as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with others, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

You deserve to feel confident in your appearance — and we’re here to help you achieve that vision safely and beautifully.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule your private consultation.