Having chubby “chipmunk” cheeks can make someone appear much younger or heavier than they would like. Dr. Khoury performs a procedure called buccal fat pad removal to minimize prominent cheeks, giving his patients a slimmer, more adult appearance. Buccal fat pad removal involves carefully sculpting the cheekbones without the need for facial implants, dermal injections, or general anesthesia.
What Are Buccal Fat Pads?
Buccal fat pads are unique in that they do not respond to diet and exercise the same way that body fat does. In spite of their efforts, many slender men and women struggle to shrink their plump cheeks and achieve the chiseled cheekbones they desire. Patients who choose to undergo buccal fat pad removal can enjoy a pleasantly matured aesthetic while maintaining their natural, youthful facial contours.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
This procedure reduces protruding cheeks by extracting the excess fatty tissue in the cheeks through an incision inside the mouth. It can usually be performed in less than one hour under local anesthesia, sparing patients the bothersome side effects and risks associated with general anesthesia. Some patients have reported that the experience is comparable to that of wisdom tooth extraction, but the recovery period only lasts a few days.
Am I a Candidate?
The best candidates for buccal fat pad removal have realistic expectations of the surgery and are in good health. They should also avoid smoking for several weeks before and after the procedure to ensure optimal healing and to reduce the risk of post-op complications. You may be considering buccal fat pad removal if you can relate to any of the following cosmetic concerns:
- Chubby “chipmunk” cheeks
- Round and full facial shape
- A desire for sculpted cheekbones
For more information about buccal fat pad removal or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Edmon Khoury, call (720) 475-8400 today.