How does buccal fat removal change the cheeks? Which facial types are suitable, and the risk of hollowing in the future

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the fat pad located deep in the cheek (buccal fat) to reduce cheek fullness and create a more defined lower face[1][2]. While there are reports of high satisfaction, research confirming its effects is limited and of modest quality[1]. Suitability varies clearly depending on cheekbone shape and age.

How much do the cheeks change with buccal fat removal?

Although the amount of fat removed is small, many people were satisfied with the change in facial contour[1]. According to a research summary, the average amount of fat removed was 2.74 mL, roughly half a teaspoon[1].

In the same summary, 84.6% of people answered that their facial contour became much better, and the remaining 15.4% said it improved[1]. However, only 4 studies were included in the summary[1]. It is safest to treat these figures as reference only.

Which facial types are suitable?

It tends to work well for people with round, heavy-looking cheeks with fullness in the front of the cheek[2]. People with well-defined cheekbones but whose cheeks appear round due to cheek fullness are considered ideal[1].

Conversely, it is not recommended for people with small cheekbones, as this can result in an over-extracted appearance[1]. Additionally, buccal fat quantity and position often differ between left and right sides[2].

Will the cheeks hollow as you age?

That concern is valid. Since buccal fat naturally decreases with age, removing it may make Facelift sagging more noticeable[1].

As cheek fat shrinks with age, other facial fat also tends to descend, according to reports[3]. Over-extraction can result in a hollow, gaunt appearance[4].

. For this reason, even younger patients are advised to remove a conservative amount[2]. How much to remove should be decided not just based on your current face, but considering what it will look like 10 or 20 years from now.

What changes if you have had fat-dissolving injections?

Results become harder to achieve and complications tend to increase. In people who have previously had fat-dissolving injections in the cheeks, the success rate of buccal fat removal decreases and complications increase, according to reports[5]. Always disclose past treatments during your consultation.

What are the risks and how should surgery be approached?

Complications are not common, but they do occur. According to a research summary, 7 complications were reported in 134 surgeries[1]. The surgery can sometimes create small depressions[6].

. Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, but local anesthesia may be used if conditions permit[2]. Confirm the anesthesia method and expected downtime beforehand.

What should be examined during consultation to determine if the procedure is right for you?

What you want to confirm is cheekbone shape, buccal fat quantity and asymmetry, and age[1][2]. Before surgery, it is important to estimate how much should be removed and assess any asymmetry[2].

The amount to remove and how your cheeks will appear in the future cannot be decided based on an article alone. Have your face examined during consultation and confirm the approach to determining removal volume and how hollowing would be addressed.