Noticeable pockets of fat next to lips. Is this buccal fat? (photos)

Question

I have these noticeable bumps or pockets of fat next to my lips that sag down. I was wondering if this could be an extension of my buccal fat pads or is it something else. If you could recommend any suitable treatments such as fat dissolving injections or buccal fat removal I would greatly appreciate it!!

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are doing well. The fullness in your cheeks corresponds to the location of buccal fat. Based on the photos you provided, you appear to be a suitable candidate for buccal fat removal. I do not recommend fat dissolving injections (i.e. Kybella) into the buccal space because they cause significant inflammation and neuropraxia is more likely to occur. Moreover, the injections cause significant, prolonged edema when they are applied to the submental area (under the chin), and I would extrapolate the same would occur in the cheeks. Buccal fat extraction is a straightforward office procedure for reducing fullness in the lower cheek. Hope this helps!
Cheers,Dr. Tower

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Small pockets of fat around the lips or the corners of the mouth, usually called perioral mounds, are not secondary to enlarged buccal fat pads. They are usually secondary to enlarged modiolus (confluence of the muscles of the face on he lips). Therefore, buccal fat removal does not address this fullness.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. You would likely benefit from buccal fat removal to remove the bumps next to your mouth. This procedure reduces fullness in the lower portion of the face, including weight carried around the mouth, while also improving cheek and jawline definition to create a more sculpted appearance. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. They will be able to assess your concern and determine the best treatment option for you.

Noticeable pockets of fat next to lips. Is this buccal fat? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

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Noticeable pockets of fat next to lips. Is this buccal fat? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.