Can buccal fat removal from one side of my face address facial asymmetry? (photo)

Question

I have always been very self conscious about my facial asymmetry. One side of my face is significantly larger than the other. (Please see attached photo) What can I do to fix this issue? Can I get buccal fat removal from only one side of the face? Should I look into facial lipo for the larger side?

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Facial asymmetry is a common physical finding present since birth. Facial asymmetry can be caused by differences in either soft tissue ( eg. skin and fat) or bonny tissue (bones of the face) or both. When the asymmetry is more pronounced in the lower anterior cheeks, it is usually caused by asymmetry in the buccal fat pads. In this case, buccal fat removal could help to achieve more symmetry when either buccal fat pads are reduced in the larger side or both sides are taken out, but more from the larger side.When asymmetry is located in the upper lateral cheeks, this is usually caused by differences in the bonny structure of the face. In these cases buccal fat removal won't help. In these cases either cheek implants or cheek enhancement with hyaluronic acid fillers on the smaller side could help to achieve a more symmetric face.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It seems like you can benefit from Buccal fat removal, this is a good option to contour the face. Buccal fat excision can be done comfortably, awake, under local anesthesia in under an hour. The results are long lasting and the recover is quick. I recommend you to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon for proper evaluation.

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

Facial asymmetry is normal and common. While buccal fat reduction, or other plastic surgery as appropriate, might be able to improve facial asymmetry in certain patients, keep in mind that asymmetry will still exist despite any procedure.Other than surgery that some of our patients choose, nonsurgical treatments with injections (relaxers and fillers) may also improve asymmetry. If you haven't already, then speaking with a facial plastic surgeon can help determine appropriate options.Best,Dr. Chaboki

Kian Karimi, MD, FACS · Answer

Everyone naturally has some facial asymmetry, and your volume asymmetry can be addressed depending on which side of your face you prefer. If you prefer the fuller cheek, fillers or fat transfer can be implemented on the other cheek. If you prefer the hollow cheek, buccal fat removal or accutite can be implemented on the opposite cheek. I would determine which cheek you would prefer to mirror and schedule a consultation with a board certified expert for an in-person assessment.
Best of Luck, 
Kian Karimi MD, FACS

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Yes, buccal fat removal may be a part of procedures to acquire more facial symmetry and thinner face. In parson evaluation and discussion about your goals and options, with a board certified plastic surgeon with good reputation in facial rejuvenation, is recommended. Good luck.

Gerald Wittenberg, MSc, DMD (retired) · Answer

It is normal for one side of the face to be more full/stronger than the opposite side.(typically left is wider). So be cautious about trying to balance what is actually bone structure with simple soft tissue like procedures. They can create an abnormal look leaving you seeking even more change.

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