Does buccal fat removal cause premature aging?

Question

I was thinking about performing buccal fat removal as a male and had a few questions. Often times, I hear it causes premature aging but why does this effect not seem to happen to people that naturally have hollow cheeks? Should they not age just as bad as someone who had buccal fat removal. (My bone structure is good, I just have a bit of excess fat specifically in the cheek area).

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

Buccal fat pad reduction performed in the right patient will not cause premature aging. This procedure should only be performed on patients who have fullness to their face. Most patients who undergo this procedure have excess fat in their entire face so reducing the area beneath the cheek improves contour without hollowing. On the other hand, a slender patient that lacks full facial volume should not undergo the procedure.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Buccal fat pad removal can be an excellent option for the right patient. I recommend scheduling a consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon who can assess you in person and determine the treatment plan that will meet your unique concerns and goals best.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

This is a common question. We do this in the office, under local anesthesia, and it takes about 30 minutes.  For people who need buccal fat removal, it's no problem to get done as you'll just look better and age from that better position.  I don't feel it makes people look hollow as they age when done correctly.  And, if you looked hollow in the future, fillers can be added!

Kian Karimi, MD, FACS · Answer

The concern with looking too hollow after buccal fat removal typically is a concern that becomes more apparent as we age. When we are young, a sharp contour can be attractive and aesthetically pleasing. However when we age, hollowness in the buccal fat compartment can lead to looking gaunt. In my technique I typically remove around one half to two thirds of the buccal fat so that we are providing a nice slimming of the face without having to worry about being too hollow when you get older. The procedure is fairly straight-forward and can even be done under local anesthesia in the office. Healing from the procedure is about a week long and full results can be expected at the 6 week mark when all of the swelling has gone down. Going forward, I would recommend you to complete multiple in office consultations with board certified experts to discuss your aesthetic goals. This way, they can work alongside you to determine your best treatment option.

Best of luck,
Kian Karimi

Best of luck, 
Kian Karimi

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

For round faces buccal fat removal can help to slim your cheeks and give more definition to your facial features.  However, in thinner faces removing buccal fat can be too aggressive and age your face.

Does buccal fat removal cause premature aging?

Answers (5)