Getting anxious with the swelling from BFR (Photo)

Question

Last May 7 I had the BFR procedure done. My face especially rhe lower quarter of my face looked amazing after the surgery itself however after a few hours it started to swell. Till today May 10,2024 it is very swollen. Im getting anxious that this might be the end result. And im curious as to why after the surgery itself it looked better than today. Any thoughs on this pls?

John Mesa, MD · Answer

It is completely normal and expected to experience swelling after buccal fat removal shortly after the procedure is performed. Some patients experience only one or two days of swelling, while others can experience up to a week (7 days) of swelling. For example, the period from May 7 to May 10 is 3 days. Therefore, having swelling at 3 days post-surgery could be expected. However, anyone concerned about the duration or severity of post-surgical swelling after buccal fat removal should consult with the plastic surgeon who performed the procedure to ensure that healing is on track and nothing abnormal is happening.
I hope this helps!
Sincerely,
John Mesa, MD Buccal Fat Removal Specialist New York - New Jersey - Miami

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for your question and for sharing your concerns about the swelling following your buccal fat reduction.

Bleeding after buccal fat reduction is not very common, but like with any form of surgery, it can occur. Typically, this issue becomes noticeable after the local anaesthetic with adrenaline wears off. While it can be concerning, it’s important to know that the swelling will gradually decrease and the final result will likely be similar to the initial improvement you noticed shortly after surgery.

Here are a few suggestions to help manage the swelling:

1.	Moderate, Sustained Pressure: Applying moderate but sustained pressure over the lower part of your cheeks can help reduce swelling more quickly. You can do this by placing the heel of your hand on your lower cheeks while resting your elbows on a table or desk, allowing your head to rest on your palms. This position helps disperse the excess fluid accumulated in the tissues and decreases the thickness of the layers in the lower part of your face.
	2.	Patience and Monitoring: Swelling is a normal part of the healing process and can take some time to resolve completely. It’s important to be patient and monitor the swelling over the next few days and weeks.
	3.	Steroid Injections (if necessary): On rare occasions, if the swelling is more persistent, steroid injections can be helpful. However, it is too early to consider this option now. It’s best to allow your body some time to heal naturally first.

If you continue to have concerns or if the swelling worsens, I recommend reaching out to your surgeon for further evaluation and advice.

Guler Gamze Eren, MD · Answer

The swelling will be maximum on the 2nd-3rd day after surgery this is why your face is swollen. You need 2-3 months at least to see your result.

Getting anxious with the swelling from BFR (Photo)

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Getting anxious with the swelling from BFR (Photo)

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