POSTED UNDER Buccal Fat Removal REVIEWS
Seeking Refinement Before 35.
ORIGINAL POST
Today, I paid my deposit for a series of facial...
SLCMamaMarch 30, 2016
WORTH IT$3,045
Today, I paid my deposit for a series of facial procedures set for April 18. I am turning 35 this summer, and if these procedures are anything like my breast augmentation, it will take at least 3 months to look and feel normal again. I hope to feel happier by the time I blow out the candles on my birthday cake. :)
I carry a disproportionate amount of weight in my face. While my breasts never truly bothered me (I could always wear a push-up bra), my cheeks have bothered me since I was 10 years-old. You can't hide your face. In college, I found out that multiple guys thought I was a "chubby chick" despite being 5'10" and only 125lbs! Unless I wear revealing clothes, which I don't, it is fair to assume that I am on the hefty side. Perhaps that shouldn't bother me, but it does.
Back in 2007, I went to a plastic surgeon requesting buccal fat removal, and she turned me away, saying that I was too young and would want the volume later in life. I prayed she was right and that I would lose that volume in my face. Almost a decade later, SHE WAS WRONG. That doctor failed to understand the effects of my ethnic heritage and/or look at the older members of my family--their cheeks don't go anywhere. My 60+ year-old parents still have their cheeks. My 85 lb. 87 year-old grandmother still has my same cheeks.
I refuse to go another decade without doing something, especially while my skin is still elastic.
As of right now, I am slated to undergo:
* Buccal Fat Pad Removal
* Submental Liposuction
* Sculptra filler for upper cheeks
* Botox for frown lines and brow lift
I am also waiting to hear back on the possibility of adding:
* Jowl Lipo
* Filler for a few marionette lines and lips
* Botox for the masseter (jaw muscle) and platysma (jowl muscle) and smile.
While I think that it would also improve my jaw contour, I am ridiculously excited about the possible botox for the jaw and jowl since I clench my teeth and get monthly migraine headaches.
This may seem like quite the list of procedures, but I was originally considering much, much more. Since I had such an easy recovery after my BA, I was tempted to go crazy with a full overhaul--face and body. I am glad that I waited because it gave me time to reflect. It would be tempting to use surgery as a route to appease my perfectionist tendencies. Are my nose and chin perfect? No. But will surgery make them perfect? No. :) Because there is no such thing! So, despite the appeal, I will be sticking to things that will simply make me happier regardless of how dramatic the results may be. "Perfect" can go take a hike. ;)
That all said, I know myself and I will still obsess like we all do on RealSelf. ;) It's my hope that by scheduling these procedures during a busy time at my work (I work from home), I'll be sufficiently distracted with my deadlines to keep from over analyzing every last lump and irregularity while I heal.
Obviously, fat transfer would be the more economic option in the long haul compared to fillers, but I am intimidated by the stories everywhere of fat transfer gone wrong. I am going to try fillers first to see if I like the results, and then, if satisfied, resort to fat transfer at a later date.
My pre-op appointment is set for April 6th. Please wish me luck! :)
I carry a disproportionate amount of weight in my face. While my breasts never truly bothered me (I could always wear a push-up bra), my cheeks have bothered me since I was 10 years-old. You can't hide your face. In college, I found out that multiple guys thought I was a "chubby chick" despite being 5'10" and only 125lbs! Unless I wear revealing clothes, which I don't, it is fair to assume that I am on the hefty side. Perhaps that shouldn't bother me, but it does.
Back in 2007, I went to a plastic surgeon requesting buccal fat removal, and she turned me away, saying that I was too young and would want the volume later in life. I prayed she was right and that I would lose that volume in my face. Almost a decade later, SHE WAS WRONG. That doctor failed to understand the effects of my ethnic heritage and/or look at the older members of my family--their cheeks don't go anywhere. My 60+ year-old parents still have their cheeks. My 85 lb. 87 year-old grandmother still has my same cheeks.
I refuse to go another decade without doing something, especially while my skin is still elastic.
As of right now, I am slated to undergo:
* Buccal Fat Pad Removal
* Submental Liposuction
* Sculptra filler for upper cheeks
* Botox for frown lines and brow lift
I am also waiting to hear back on the possibility of adding:
* Jowl Lipo
* Filler for a few marionette lines and lips
* Botox for the masseter (jaw muscle) and platysma (jowl muscle) and smile.
While I think that it would also improve my jaw contour, I am ridiculously excited about the possible botox for the jaw and jowl since I clench my teeth and get monthly migraine headaches.
This may seem like quite the list of procedures, but I was originally considering much, much more. Since I had such an easy recovery after my BA, I was tempted to go crazy with a full overhaul--face and body. I am glad that I waited because it gave me time to reflect. It would be tempting to use surgery as a route to appease my perfectionist tendencies. Are my nose and chin perfect? No. But will surgery make them perfect? No. :) Because there is no such thing! So, despite the appeal, I will be sticking to things that will simply make me happier regardless of how dramatic the results may be. "Perfect" can go take a hike. ;)
That all said, I know myself and I will still obsess like we all do on RealSelf. ;) It's my hope that by scheduling these procedures during a busy time at my work (I work from home), I'll be sufficiently distracted with my deadlines to keep from over analyzing every last lump and irregularity while I heal.
Obviously, fat transfer would be the more economic option in the long haul compared to fillers, but I am intimidated by the stories everywhere of fat transfer gone wrong. I am going to try fillers first to see if I like the results, and then, if satisfied, resort to fat transfer at a later date.
My pre-op appointment is set for April 6th. Please wish me luck! :)
SLCMama's provider
Replies (30)
April 11, 2016
Hi, I completely understand you, I'm getting buccal fat, cheek filler and submental lipo as well.... I wish you the best and hope your results are AMAZING!! :)
April 11, 2016
Thank you! That means a lot. :) When are you getting your procedures done? I wish you lots of luck and also hope your results are amazing! :)
April 13, 2016
My fingers and toes are crossed for you! If you post a review, please let me know! :) Good luck!
April 27, 2016
I had buccal fat removal when I was 19 and boy do I regret it. I spent $7,000 to put the fat back in with grafting. I looked at your pictures and I think you would be happy with very careful fat grafting to define and fill your cheekbones and under your eyes. Be careful to get grafting and not injections. Go to a qualified, highly rated surgeon and not a dermatologist or anyone else. The fat grafting will lift your entire face up. You might want to also want to ask about cheekbone implants, though they're not done much anymore. I'm just thinking that with implants, you can remove them, and with fat grafting, you're stuck with it and it's not always even. Check out Dr. Brent Moellneken's LiveFill method. If you can go to LA, he is the best of the best of the best.
UPDATED FROM SLCMama
16 days pre
Costs & Before Photos
SLCMamaApril 2, 2016
$3,045.00 - Buccal fat pad removal
$525.00 - Submental (chin & jowl) liposuction
$840.00 - Sculptra filler for upper cheeks
$330.75 - Botox for frown lines and brow lift
$600.00 - Botox for the masseter (jaw muscle)
$60.00 - Botox for the platysma (jowl muscle)
$600.00 - Radiesse for marionette lines and lips
$150.00 - Sedation
$5905.75 - TOTAL
My out-of-pocket will be in the neighborhood of $5400 because there is a slight practice discount as well as a discount for paying cash.
Suddenly, looking at this list makes me feel like I am a bit crazy.
Do I really need almost $3k in injectables on top of my buccal fat pad extraction? Probably not. But do I think they will make me look and feel better? Yes.
And, if I am ever going to do them, it would be ideal to be under sedation. So, why not?
Happy early birthday to me. :)
$525.00 - Submental (chin & jowl) liposuction
$840.00 - Sculptra filler for upper cheeks
$330.75 - Botox for frown lines and brow lift
$600.00 - Botox for the masseter (jaw muscle)
$60.00 - Botox for the platysma (jowl muscle)
$600.00 - Radiesse for marionette lines and lips
$150.00 - Sedation
$5905.75 - TOTAL
My out-of-pocket will be in the neighborhood of $5400 because there is a slight practice discount as well as a discount for paying cash.
Suddenly, looking at this list makes me feel like I am a bit crazy.
Do I really need almost $3k in injectables on top of my buccal fat pad extraction? Probably not. But do I think they will make me look and feel better? Yes.
And, if I am ever going to do them, it would be ideal to be under sedation. So, why not?
Happy early birthday to me. :)
Replies (18)
April 2, 2016
Wishing you a successful and speedy recovery! Be sure to post pics when you're ready - it's going to be great to see those results!
How long do you expect the procedure will take?
April 2, 2016
Thanks, Chris! The procedures should take in total about an hour and a half. I am looking forward to the results myself. :) Fingers crossed!
April 3, 2016
Why do u want to do buccal fat removal if u are doing chin and jowl lipo? Aren't u scared might be too much?
Good luck anyway and keep us updated
Good luck anyway and keep us updated
April 3, 2016
Well, now I am! ;) Heheh
You've convinced me to post a question to the doctors on RealSelf to get their opinions on what I should get done.
Many sincere thanks!
You've convinced me to post a question to the doctors on RealSelf to get their opinions on what I should get done.
Many sincere thanks!
April 3, 2016
It looks to me like your face is going to be saggy if your cheek fat pads are removed. Did your PS ever mention the possibility of a midface lift instead?
April 3, 2016
Hi golfloosh! Great minds think alike! ;) I asked about a mid face lift, but was told I was too young. Regardless of what surgery I get this year, I've accepted the fact that I'll be getting my first facelift in the next decade--mid 40s. I like and trust my doctor, but perhaps I will post a question to the doctors on RealSelf to get their opinions too. :) Thank you!
April 3, 2016
my buccal fat pads were melted by IPL (not intentionally). I always had a full face depending on my weight. The lower half of my face is a bit saggy now and I have marionette lines now too. I just turned 36 and this was done last year. I was not going to comment but I feel if I can help others I should. I don't like being a negative Nancy! I wish someone had warned me before hand :) Good luck with your journey :)
April 3, 2016
Whoa! I am so sorry for what happened to you with IPL! That is horrible! I will certainly keep your words in mind. I will be asking the RealSelf doctors their opinion on what I should have done to effect the changes that I want. Thank you for speaking out and bravely sharing your experience. I will be keeping you and your recovery in my thoughts and sending best wishes your way. *hugs*
April 3, 2016
Thank you:) I really hope you achieve the best outcome. Ask for before and after photos and maybe if you can speak to others that have had the procedure. This should help you be confident in your decision.
UPDATED FROM SLCMama
11 days pre
Pre-Operative Appointment
SLCMamaApril 7, 2016
My husband was able to attend the pre-op appointment with me today, and Dr. Bitner ran through and explained all the procedures again. This put me much more at ease. I know that buccal fat pad removal isn't for everyone, but there is every indication that it is the right surgery for me.
Then Dr. B's nurse, Jaime walked me through all the pre and post surgical instructions. After I paid the balance for the surgery, I received 2 goodie bags. One bag contained all the post -lipo recovery items (hydrogen peroxide, polysporin, Q-tips and ace bandages) and another bag contained a "Bitner Facial Plastic Surgery" branded blanket. (The blanket was promptly appropriated by my 4 year-old.)
I am somewhat worried about the scars from the lipo since I scar poorly. At least the scars should be small and discrete at the base of my chin and on both sides of my jaw. I don't wear make-up, so I probably need to start looking into scar steroid injections soon.
The following is a list of the final, agreed-upon procedures:
$3,045.00 - Buccal fat pad removal
$525.00 - Submental liposuction
$840.00 - Sculptra for upper cheeks
$330.75 - Botox for glabella and eyebrow lift
$600.00 - Restylane for marionette lines and lip border
$150.00 - Sedation
($80.00) - Allergan Coupon
($245.00) - Practice Loyalty Discount
($225.75) - Cash Discount
$4940.00 - TOTAL
I am hopeful and excited. :) Only 12 days away!
Then Dr. B's nurse, Jaime walked me through all the pre and post surgical instructions. After I paid the balance for the surgery, I received 2 goodie bags. One bag contained all the post -lipo recovery items (hydrogen peroxide, polysporin, Q-tips and ace bandages) and another bag contained a "Bitner Facial Plastic Surgery" branded blanket. (The blanket was promptly appropriated by my 4 year-old.)
I am somewhat worried about the scars from the lipo since I scar poorly. At least the scars should be small and discrete at the base of my chin and on both sides of my jaw. I don't wear make-up, so I probably need to start looking into scar steroid injections soon.
The following is a list of the final, agreed-upon procedures:
$3,045.00 - Buccal fat pad removal
$525.00 - Submental liposuction
$840.00 - Sculptra for upper cheeks
$330.75 - Botox for glabella and eyebrow lift
$600.00 - Restylane for marionette lines and lip border
$150.00 - Sedation
($80.00) - Allergan Coupon
($245.00) - Practice Loyalty Discount
($225.75) - Cash Discount
$4940.00 - TOTAL
I am hopeful and excited. :) Only 12 days away!
Replies (11)
April 11, 2016
Hi there! I was just reading your story, and wanted to add some information about my buccal fat removal. I had my buccal fat pads removed 20 years ago at age 27 because I felt I had puffy cheeks. The results were beautiful....until I hit my 40's. My face is now looking slighty "gaunt". I have been researching fillers for my cheeks now, in hopes that it will help. Just to be clear, I don't necessarily regret getting the buccal fat removal, but if I knew that my face would "deflate" so much as I age, I might have reconsidered it.
I wish you the very best in your journey and please keep us posted:)
I wish you the very best in your journey and please keep us posted:)
April 11, 2016
Thank you, a.macd! I am sincerely grateful to you for sharing your experience! In the question I asked the doctors of RealSelf (not a single one answered), I included a photo of both my parents in their 60s. While both of them are in the normal BMI range, their cheeks are both quite large and now look like jowls despite their thinness. While I can't see the future, I believe I would prefer to look gaunt to looking fat (despite being skinny) with jowls.
April 14, 2016
Woohoo! So excited for you! I can't wait to see your post-pics and read your updates!
April 14, 2016
Aww! Thank you so much! You're a doll! I know my results (if any) will be very subtle, but I hope they will take a couple pounds and years off my face. I think I am too busy and stressed about other things (taxes, business, entertaining, out-of-town guests, work deadlines...) to be stressed about the surgery. I tentatively plan on stressing Sunday night. ;) You continue to look more and more fabulous in each new post! Thanks for continuing to share you gorgeous journey! xo
April 16, 2016
I hear you, hopefully all the distractions will take your mind off it! Any tweak no matter how big or small is nerve wracking so don't feel silly for stressing, especially when it involves your face- that's kinda a big deal :) I can't wait to see the outcome in a few short days! Eeeeeekkk! I'm almost as excited as if I was doing it. Ha! :) sending you all the AWESOME outcome vibes I have!!!
April 17, 2016
That's exactly how I am waiting for YOUR updates!! :-D I'm getting more excited the closer I get to Monday. Funny enough, my mom is in town for the surgery (leaving that morning) but I am not telling her about it. When I told her about my BA (which I am not ashamed of) she then went and called all of her family to explicitly tell them I got a BA! WTF?! Just because I am not ashamed I got the surgery and will cop to it, doesn't mean I want it gossiped about! I am still very annoyed about all the judgy phone calls I got from all of my Aunts. They were under the impression that any boob job would leave me looking like Pamela Anderson. Do these people even know me?!? Since when have I ever been flashy?! Anyway, let's just hope I am not in jail for murdering my mother by Monday so I can go get the next round done and NEVER tell her. Haha! I have learned my lesson! This is between me and RealSelf from now on. ;)
April 17, 2016
You seriously made me bust out laughing because I totally get it! My mum and family are the same way and are very much 'love yourself the way you are' type of people and thinks that any cosmetic surgery is completely ridiculous as are those who go down that path. If it does go south for you, send out an SOS and I will post your bail so you can have the best booking photo EVER ;)
April 17, 2016
Darn it my phone messed up thst was supposed to say best looking jail ID photo ever :) anyway, how are you feeling now? Nervous/calm?
April 18, 2016
LOL! Thank you! I will keep that in mind in case I can't stay out of jail for the next 12 hours. ;) What I think is so crazy about my mom and her family is that they aren't really 'love yourself the way you are' type of people. They complain about EVERYTHING, and never do anything about it, but prefer to sit on a high horse to criticize others for actually taking action. Some people. Ugh.
I am actually feeling alright. This is totally different from my BA experience! I'm just eager to finish meeting minutes, laundry and a few other items before tomorrow. Haha! I'm so weird.
Thanks again! xoxo
I am actually feeling alright. This is totally different from my BA experience! I'm just eager to finish meeting minutes, laundry and a few other items before tomorrow. Haha! I'm so weird.
Thanks again! xoxo
So I decided NOT to go for this.To be completely honest with you(as our faces are similar too and I find you beautiful), I do not think you need it.All you need(as I did) is filler on cheek bones,upper lip and nasolabial lines.That'all.And,remember,skincare and a little bit of professionnal make up(watch Youtube videos) work miracles!I am really afraid of buccal fat removal...Many people have sagging issues afterwards...