Buccal (Cheek) Fat Excision: San Francisco

Buccal (pronounced “buckle”) fat excision, which is sometimes called cheek reduction surgery, decreases the appearance of very full cheeks that can hide the subtle contour of the cheek bone and jaw line. Buccal fat tends to naturally diminish with age, but some people are genetically predisposed to round, full cheeks that stay well into adulthood.

During the procedure, a small incision is made inside of the mouth, and the buccal fat is gently removed through the incision by the surgeon. The exact amount of fat that is removed varies from patient to patient. The entire procedure takes approximately an hour to complete.

After Your Procedure

After surgery, the face will be temporarily swollen and the cheeks will appear puffy. While recovering, it is important to keep the head elevated while sleeping or laying down to rest. Applying cold compresses to the face will help decrease swelling during the recovery period.

Dr. Rajagopal prescribes medications for pain management, which should be taken, as prescribed. Buccal fat pad removal patients need to remain on a soft or liquid food diet following the procedure, and maintain excellent oral hygiene during the healing process. Sutures inside the mouth dissolve in approximately three weeks.

Dr. Rajagopal will advise when normal activity can be resumed. For most patients, this will be one to two weeks after surgery. Most patients can resume to work within five to seven days.

How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?

Learn about financing options, discounts and cost of cheek fat removal on our costs & financing page. Or, call today (415) 392-3333 to ask Dr. Rajagopal’s staff.

If you have any questions regarding Buccal Fat Removal, or wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rajagopal, please call the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at 415-392-3333.