How risky is it to get fat injected directly back to buccal space due to inner mucus and bacteria?

Question

I got buccal fat removal and I regret it. I have been exploring the option with surgeons to get fat injected back to buccal space versus a superficial fat graft. Does the likelihood of developing problematic necrosis increase when you inject back to buccal space (though the inner corner of mouth) versus a superficial fat graft? My understanding is that you are breaking through inner mucus which bacteria can infiltrate. How can I reduce my chances of getting necrosis that can cause deformity?

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hi there! Injecting fat back into the buccal space would be possible to perform. Going intraorally would definitely increase the risk of "seeding" bacteria into the cheek. I would go externally and use macro and microfat to transfer. As with any transfer, you would expect 30-50% of the fat injected to not "take". So, overinflation would be needed and possibly multiple treatments to contour the results. As for a dermal-fat graft, I have no experience. Best of luck.

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How risky is it to get fat injected directly back to buccal space due to inner mucus and bacteria?

Answers (1)

BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL PROVIDERS NEAR YOU