The buccal fat removal procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, usually under local anesthesia, and involves making small incisions inside the mouth through which the buccal fat pads are removed.

Dr. Ho begins by making a small incision on the inside of the cheek to expose the buccal fat pad. The fat is then carefully removed, sculpting the cheeks to provide a more contoured facial appearance. The incisions are then closed with sutures, which typically dissolve on their own within a few weeks.

The buccal fat removal surgery itself usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes to complete, depending on the extent of the fat removal required.

As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Ho specializes exclusively in cosmetic procedures of the face. With facial contouring reigning as one of her most requested signature procedures, Dr. Tina Ho attracts patients from beyond Philadelphia and Wayne and from all across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. During consultation, Dr. Ho performs a thorough evaluation on every patient to establish the best treatment plan as well as realistic expectations with treatment.

Buccal fat removal is only indicated in a specific group of patients, and Dr. Ho carefully selects those who would most benefit from this surgery. Dr. Tina Ho routinely performs this surgery in the office setting under local anesthesia and ensures that each patient has a comfortable experience with surgery. She often performs concurrent submental liposuction, chin augmentation, and facial fat transfer or filler injections to optimize her surgical results.

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that helps create a more sculpted, contoured face. The right image illustrates the location of the buccal space where buccal fat is removed from, as indicated by the asterisk (*).

These post-operative care instructions are essential for all buccal fat removal procedures to achieve optimal results. Activities such as walking should be resumed promptly to prevent blood clots and aid recovery, with guidelines for minimal physical exertion, bending, and household activities for two weeks. Head and neck exercises and swimming should be avoided for four weeks, and CPAP use should only resume when cleared by the surgeon.

Maintaining a 30-degree head elevation during the first week helps reduce swelling. Applying cool compresses for the first 48 hours after surgery is advised to alleviate swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

Diet-wise, resuming drinking and eating is crucial, starting with a soft diet and avoiding the use of straws. Mouthwash should be avoided in the first week. Bathing can be resumed the day following surgery.

Incision care involves rinsing your mouth with saltwater three times daily after meals and bedtime, with gentle teeth brushing starting the day after surgery. Medications, including antibiotics and pain relief, should be taken as prescribed. Tylenol is recommended for mild pain, while NSAIDs should be avoided for two weeks. Constipation is a potential side effect, so stool softeners can be added to your regimen.

Instructions also cover driving restrictions, work, social activities, and recommendations for out-of-town patients. Follow-up appointments are essential, with the first occurring 7-10 days after surgery.

After surgery, swelling and bruising in the face and neck are common, with uneven swelling occasionally occurring. Bruising can be managed with cool compresses and concealer makeup. Pain is typically well-controlled with Tylenol or the prescribed medication. Fever above 100 degrees should be reported. Weakness is normal initially but improves with time.

Tightness, heaviness, and restricted smile sensations in the face should improve over two weeks. Numbness in some areas is normal and subsides over time. Scars will initially appear deep pink but fade and become less noticeable over the course of a year.

Accidental injuries to the face or neck are usually not concerning unless severe. Symptoms such as increased discomfort, signs of infection, nausea, vomiting, drainage, open areas along wound sites, difficulty breathing, or chest pain should prompt immediate contact with Dr. Ho’s office for further evaluation and guidance.

I went to Dr. Ho for buccal fat removal. I went to see many doctors. Dr. Tina Ho was extraordinary from the start — and Dr. Ho’s staff is equally amazing, knowledgeable, professional, kind, empathetic and genuine. They don’t just flash smiles and say things like a robot. I know because I went to see a few other surgeons (one had a 1 year waiting list) so I have a real basis of comparison.

I asked a lot of questions. Dr. Ho was very fair and honest with the recommendations.

Dr. Ho went over the what buccal fat is, where it is positioned (one side of my face has higher position than the other), explained the procedure, went over the risks, go over exactly how much will be removed. Dr. Ho go over some of the uncertainties of the procedures, that some aspects of plastic surgery is not exact science and the pros and cons of being conservative vs. aggressive. I asked how the loss of fat will change the structure of the face overall and how it will age out over the years (typically) — I have done my own research too. Buccal fat removal is a bit hyped up, and everyone is going for that “snatched look” — but I wanted something more subtle. I just want that little “bump” on my cheek gone – and if it slims down my jawline, that is a bonus. Admittedly, I was scared that it would give me that razor-sharp sunken cheek (think Angelina Jolie), and I told Dr. Ho that while Jolie is gorgeous, that is not my preferred aesthetics 🙂 Dr. Ho totally gets it. The procedure was done in a great facility, it was well organized, I felt safe and comfortable the entire time. Dr. Ho pointed out that there will be a slight difference in location and amount taken from left vs right cheeks. It was done under local anesthesia, Dr. Ho maintained communication the entire time and gave me update on the process. (I personally like that, I know what is going on, I know some people prefer to not know). Post Op, Dr. Ho send text messages personally and checked on me, and not just the first day. I don’t think I have ever experienced that personal care and attention with anyone else.

Results was fantastic — it was EXACTLY what I wanted out of it. Not sure if it even makes sense, but I feel that my face is more symmetrical now. In any case, I am very happy. I know who I will go to for future procedures.

 

– Verified Client 

 

Buccal Fat Removal Before and after videos

Dr. Thuy-Van Tina Ho will be available to discuss buccal fat removal in Philadelphia and the variety of other procedures we perform during a consultation. Set up an appointment for your consultation – contact our office today.

BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS