Buccal fat removal and dental work?

Question

I've been considering buccal fat removal and mini neck/face lift for a while now. I also need to get dental work done, as two of my porcelain crowns off my 1st bottom molars (#19 and 30) are now missing. I don't have any pain but the two teeth that were treated with root canals years ago are exposed. Would this be an issue if I want the buccal fat removal first? Or would getting the porcelain crowns replaced be required?

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Dear BbLove11, thank you for your question.

It's advisable to complete any necessary dental work before undergoing buccal fat removal or a facelift. Dental procedures, especially those involving root canals and crowns, can cause swelling or infection that might interfere with healing after facial surgery. Replacing your porcelain crowns first would be a safer approach, ensuring there are no complications during or after your cosmetic procedures.

John Mesa, MD · Answer

If someone needs to undergo dental work, such as the placement of porcelain crowns, and they want to have buccal fat removal first, it can potentially be done depending on the timing of the two procedures. In my experience, buccal fat removal can be performed first without causing any pain in teeth that have been treated with root canals, provided that a careful technique is used. However, the root canal procedure could affect the healing process of the buccal fat pad.

Why? To place porcelain crowns, the mouth must be open, and the inside of the mouth may need to be stretched. If someone is healing post-buccal fat removal, this dental work could disrupt the buccal fat removal incision and cause complications. In my practice, I advise patients who undergo buccal fat removal and plan to have elective dental work to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure to prevent any complications.

I hope this helps!

Sincerely,

John Mesa, MD  
Buccal Fat Removal Specialist Plastic Surgeon  
New York - New Jersey - Miami.

Berat Cigdem, MD · Answer

It’s generally advisable to complete your dental work, especially crown replacements, before undergoing buccal fat removal. Dental procedures can cause swelling or changes in your oral structure, which might affect the buccal fat removal process. Completing dental work first ensures a smoother surgical outcome. Always consult both your dentist and plastic surgeon to coordinate the timing of these procedures.

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