Buccal fat removal: it's 3 weeks now still swollen, what do I do?

Question

I had my buccal fat removal 3 week ago .. my right cheek is still swollen. Swelling is going down but very slowly.. der is a lump in the cheek which gets harder when I eat something .. I have done this in India . Now I am back to Edmonton Canada .. I don't know what to do ?

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Most patients swelling resolves fairly early.  Patients can notice swelling and lumps after buccal fat removal.  Less invasive techniques to remove it can improve patients outcome and recovery.  Best Anil Shah

Clayton Crantford, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question gavz. Swelling following surgery is normal and expected. The swelling should gradually improve over the weeks following your procedure. The lump you are describing is slightly concerning and I recommend you seek a consultation from a plastic surgeon to have this evaluated. Hope this helps.

Miguel Mascaro, MD · Answer

Great question! It certainly can happen that one side swells a little more than another after surgery.  It can do with your anatomy, how difficult it was to identify the buccal fat pad, etc.  I would discuss this with your operating doc as they will have a better idea as to what could be the reason for your swelling and give you a timeline towards recovery.  You are only 3 weeks out, so there is still plenty of time to heal, don't worry! Congratulations on your procedure, by the way!

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Patients with questions and concerns about their buccal fat removal healing process should address those concerns with the surgeon that performed the operation, ideally during a follow up consultation.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

There will be some swelling present in the face after the surgery. The swelling is typically moderate and will slowly resolve over a few weeks. However, because you feel a lump, I recommend following up with your surgeon. 
I hope this helps!

Buccal fat removal: it's 3 weeks now still swollen, what do I do?

Answers (5)

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