Cheek reduction surgery, also known as buccal fat removal, is one of the most popular facial aesthetics in recent years, helping to create a sharper expression on the face by emphasizing the prominence of the cheekbones. This surgical procedure, also known as cheek aesthetics or Hollywood aesthetics, is entirely for aesthetic purposes. We have compiled all the details you may wonder about cheek reduction surgery for you…
What is Cheek Reduction Surgery?
Cheeks are among the main elements that affect the appearance of the face. The buccal fat pads, called buccal fat, located between the cheekbones and the jawbones, determine the shape of the cheeks. As the buccal fat tissue increases, the cheeks become fuller and the face becomes rounder. This condition can lead to sagging cheeks and a chubby appearance of the face. In some individuals, the buccal fat tissue may be higher than acceptable levels. Even though the person is at an ideal weight, they may appear overweight and older. Cheek reduction surgery, also known as buccal fat removal, aims to thin the cheeks by surgically removing excess fat in the cheek area and giving the face a sharp triangular shape. With cheek reduction surgery, prominent cheekbones and hollow areas between the cheekbones and the jawline can be accentuated.
How is Cheek Reduction Surgery Performed?
Cheek reduction surgery is a simple and short procedure. Patients are usually discharged on the same day. Local anesthesia is applied to the cheek area for the procedure. If other facial aesthetics are to be performed alongside buccal fat removal, the surgeon may decide on general anesthesia. Small incisions are made on both sides of the face from inside the mouth to remove excess buccal fat tissue. Gentle pressure is applied to the cheeks to expose the buccal fat tissue, and the excess fat tissue is cut and removed. Then, the incisions are closed with stitches by the surgeon. Self-absorbable surgical threads are generally used for the procedure. Therefore, there is no need to remove the stitches after the procedure. Cheek reduction surgery takes approximately 15-30 minutes.
Who Can Get Cheek Reduction Surgery?
Cheek fat does not pose any health risks. Therefore, cheek reduction surgery is not a necessary procedure for health reasons. Cheek reduction is performed solely to change a person’s appearance. Some individuals may feel uncomfortable with having an oval or round face and may desire a longer and triangular face appearance. An expert plastic surgeon can decide whether cheek reduction surgery is suitable for you, and in some cases, may not recommend cheek reduction. As age increases, fat tissue in the cheek area naturally decreases, and cheek reduction surgery may accelerate the signs of aging. Also, if you already have a narrow face, the surgeon may not find cheek reduction surgery suitable for you.
What to Consider After Cheek Reduction Surgery?
Since cheek reduction surgery is performed inside the mouth, it is crucial to pay attention to oral hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. Mouthwash solutions that help maintain oral hygiene may be provided after the procedure. For the first few days after the procedure, you should consume only soft foods and liquids. You should take the medications prescribed by your doctor as recommended. Smoking and alcohol consumption can negatively affect the recovery process after cheek reduction surgery. To prevent swelling and bruising in the first three days following the operation, you can apply a cold compress for 15 minutes every 4-5 hours. Avoid physically demanding activities such as heavy lifting, running, aerobics, and swimming for the first 5-7 days after the operation. You can return to your normal life approximately three weeks after the surgery, and your facial shape may fully settle after a few months.