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Understanding Buccal Fat Removal

Facial cosmetic procedures

Do you stare into the mirror and think, “Why are my cheeks are so fat?” Many men and women consider buccal fat removal to slim their cheeks and cause their cheekbones to look more prominent. However, others have no idea what we’re talking about. As we investigate buccal fat removal, we’ll discuss what it is, why it’s used and if it’s a good idea.

What is Buccal Fat?

The buccal fat creates the fuller, rounder part of your cheeks. It’s the fat pad between your cheekbones and jawbone, and it is part of what determines the shape of your face. We all have buccal fat; some people have much more than others.

Buccal fat is not harmful, but many people with rounder cheeks prefer to have it removed. Buccal fat removal is a surgery performed by a plastic surgeon. Buccal fat removal should be done after the patient is over 20 years old. A common term for buccal fat is baby fat; as we grow up, we lose most or all of it. If surgery is done sooner, it can leave the patient with a gaunt, stretched look.

How is Buccal Fat Removal Performed?

Buccal fat removal is done by a licensed plastic surgeon. It can be done in the doctor’s office as an outpatient procedure. Unless you have other procedures at the same time, you can expect a local anesthetic to be applied, and then small incisions are made inside the cheek. Next, the buccal fat pads are pressed on to expose them, and the doctor removes them, closing the incision with dissolvable stitches. You’ll be given care instructions, and you go home.

Is Buccal Fat Removal Right for You?

Like any surgical procedure, the first step is a consultation with the surgeon. The doctor will examine you and discuss your health history, including medications, health conditions and prior surgeries. You’ll also discuss what you desire for a surgical outcome and your expectations before and after surgery.

You’ll be able to ask all your questions, so you understand what to expect. This information will help your surgeon decide if buccal fat removal is right for you.

If you’re in NYC, Dr. Lesley Rabach is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a founder of LM Medical NYC. Dr. Rabach has an outstanding reputation for her excellent work and takes a holistic approach to enhance your appearance with minimal pain and downtime.

Posted on behalf of LM Medical NYC

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  • I absolutely love this practice. They are brilliant and attentive. I can't say enough about the accuracy, professionalism and patient care. Run don't walk, for any derm issue.

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  • Dr. Lesley Rabach is incredible at what she does, she recommends small adjustments that look so natural but also give a noticeable result. Beyond that, she's absolutely lovely to be around and the entire energy of her office is so pleasant! I'll be turning to her for her recommendations go forward, it's SO important to find a plastic surgeon you can really trust. She is it! Thank you!

    Taylor L.

  • Dr. Lesley Rabach is simply outstanding! She has a wonderfully warm and caring bedside manner and always takes the time to listen. She is highly regarded as an expert in her field and it shows through her superb clinical acumen. Her office staff are kind, professional, and responsive. I highly recommend seeing Dr. Rabach!

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  • I’ve been visiting LM medical for 4 years. The staff is always welcoming. The location is beautiful and modern. Dr. Morgan and Dr. Lesley are amazing physicians. They are very personable and genuine. They are open to questions and addressed all of my concerns. I have been more then pleased with my experience with LM Medical and I highly recommend this office.

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  • Dr. Morgan Rabach and her staff provide top tier care and excellent service. Dr. Rabach is well-versed in the latest research. She made lots of time to discuss my dermatological history (what’s worked, what hasn’t worked, what hasn’t been tried) and all the available treatments to find the best path forward. She didn’t settle - pushing to make sure I got the best results possible. Would recommend without any reservations!

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