Are the Effects of Buccal Fat Removal Dramatic?

Great question!  The results are subtle, but can be dramatic depending on how much fatty tissue you have in the cheeks.  There will be a noticeable difference though.Best of luck and hope this information helps!- Dr. Roger Tsai   @DrRogerTsai

The results of buccal fat removal can be dramatic. However this result depends on several factors like:presence of chubby cheeksQuality of cheek bonesbody weight and BMIAgepresence of skin laxityamount of buccal fat pad removed ( partial vs total).Therefore, since these factors differ among patient, the dramatic result of the procedure tend to be different among patients. 

The results after buccal fat removal are subtle. The fat is simply removed through an incission inside the mouth. While this decreases the volume of the cheek adjacent to the corner of the mouth it doesnt actively draw the tissues inward. Most patient see and improvement over several months and are happy with the results. The procedure should be avoided however in persons with an already thin face.

Buccal Fat Removal is typically a subtle & natural enhancement of facial contours. Trying to make this dramatic risks injury to key structures like nerves, salivary ducts or giving a hollow appearance. Other adjunctive procedures can be performed to give you the final look you are after.

Removal of buccal fat pads should be undertaken if an individual has extra cheek fullness just adjacent to the corners of the mouth.  It is accomplished most commonly through an incision inside the mouth on each side.  If performed in an individual with a thin face, it can lead to unnatural hollowing in this area.

The best way to try to simulate the effects of buccal fat pad removal is to face yourself in the mirror, then while keeping your lips in contact with one another, separate your teeth.  You will see decreased fullness adjacent to the corners of the mouth.