Plastic surgeon says I’m a buccal fat removal candidate, would you agree? (photos)

Question

I’m 26 years old and reached out to a plastic surgeon regarding submental lipo, he advised I would be a good candidate for chin/jowl lipo plus buccal fat removal. I did some brief research into the procedure and I see a lot of mixed opinions. I’m Asian so I do have that rounded “moon” face but would you agree with this doctors assessment that I am a good candidate?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. If you are interested in reducing excess fullness in the midface and below the cheekbones, buccal fat removal may be a good option for you. In this procedure, the buccal fat pad is removed to define the cheekbones and jawline. 
Partial removal of this tissue can create a slimmer appearance in the lower half of the face, the results of which are permanent. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon who can assess your aesthetic goals and suggest the best option to help you achieve them.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

If your aesthetic goal is to taper down the lower third of your face, there are a few different options. Buccal fat removal is ideal for patients with excess buccal (cheek fat). This would provide lasting results that do not require touchups. If you are looking for a more temporary, less invasive option you may consider masseter reduction with Botox. It would benefit you to follow up with a board certified facial plastic surgeon for a full physical examination to determine which treatment option is best for you. Looking at computer-morphed images with your surgeon during consultation will give you a good idea of what is possible, and also give you a great chance to convey to your surgeon what you envision. @drdonyoo

Edwin Kwon, MD, FACS · Answer

It is difficult from your photo to determine how fully her face is because you are making an expression that is causing you to have dimples.

However, if you feel that you have a very rounded "moon" face and would like a slimmer appearing face, you  would be able to improve the fullness with buccal fat removal.

I think a lot of patients are concerned that removing the buccal fat will make them appear old.  This tends not to be the case if your face is on the fuller side.  However, if your face is already slim, removing the buccal fat can have the effect of making you appear older.

Plastic surgeon says I’m a buccal fat removal candidate, would you agree? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

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Plastic surgeon says I’m a buccal fat removal candidate, would you agree? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

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.