Do I need a compression garment after buccal fat removal?

Dear Hepburnn, thank you for your question.

While compression garments can be recommended by some surgeons after buccal fat removal, they are not universally mandatory. In my practice, I typically do not suggest their use as they can be uncomfortable and may cause swelling to shift to the front of the face.

Regardless of whether you wear a compression garment, you can expect to start seeing the results of your surgery around the three-week mark. Your recovery and outcome largely depend on your body's natural healing process, not the garment itself. Always follow your surgeon's personalized advice for the best recovery.

Some doctors might have different recommendations. When I perform buccal fat pad removal, I do not require patients to wear any type of compression. Hope this helps!

Dallas Buchanan, MD
VIVIFY plastic surgery
Tampa, FL

Recovery typically takes a few weeks, during which you will be advised to wear a compression garment for the healing process. However, it depends upon your surgeon, who will advise you on do’s and don’ts post procedure.