Lower face widens when smiling - would like more sculpted look (Photo)

Question

I’m 109 pounds and eat well and exercise daily, yet when I smile my face looks 10 pounds heavier. I would like a more sculpted look to where my cheeks go up instead of widen out to the side. What can I do?

John Mesa, MD · Answer

In young patients with normal weight, a healthy diet, and regular exercise, a chubby smile making them appear 10 pounds heavier is often due to enlarged buccal fat pads. These fat pads, located in the anterior lower cheek, give the face a chubbier look, especially when smiling. Diet and exercise typically do not reduce these fat pockets.

For patients with enlarged buccal fat pads, a plastic surgery procedure called buccal fat removal (bichectomía) can be beneficial. This procedure permanently removes excess buccal fat, helping to achieve a slimmer, more sculpted facial appearance.

I hope this helps!

Sincerely,

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

Steve Fallek, MD · Answer

Buccal fat pad removal would certainly reduce the volume and width of your lower face. On the first picture you demonstrate a fullness right where the buccal fat pad is located. It's a simple procedure with very little downtime done under local anesthesia and would be my first choice for your concerns.

Lower face widens when smiling - would like more sculpted look (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

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Lower face widens when smiling - would like more sculpted look (Photo)

Answers (2)

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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.