If you’ve ever been described as “baby-faced,” you likely have more buccal fat than those with highly contoured features. While some prefer this rounder look, others feel the excess fat in their lower face makes their cheeks look chubby or poorly defined. That’s where buccal fat removal comes in.
Though this facial cosmetic surgery has recently become popular on social media, with celebrities like Chrissy Teigen getting in on the trend, buccal fat removal has been around for decades. At her practice in Westport, Connecticut, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ellen Mahony uses this technique to give her patients the sculpted look they’re after.
How Does Buccal Fat Removal Work?
Buccal fat removal reduces the size of the fat pad that sits between your facial muscles, just below your cheekbones. While weight changes and aging can affect the size of your lower cheeks, some people naturally carry more fat in this area.
During the procedure, Dr. Mahony will use an anesthetic and oral sedation as needed to ensure you’re calm and comfortable. She’ll then make a small incision inside the cheeks to access the buccal fat pads and remove an appropriate amount of excess tissue. Because the incisions are inside your mouth, you won’t need to worry about visible surgical scars.
The result is a slimmer face with more defined cheekbones and a contoured jawline. Depending on your facial anatomy, you may also benefit from fat grafting or dermal fillers to add volume to your upper cheeks.
Who Can Benefit From Buccal Fat Removal?
The best candidates for buccal fat removal are those with cherubic cheeks who want a sculpted lower face and enhanced cheekbones. Before the procedure, you should be at or near your ideal weight, since extreme weight gain or loss can change the shape of your face.
During your consultation, Dr. Mahony will determine if your lower facial bulk is caused by excess buccal fat or overdeveloped jaw muscles. If the latter contributes to your facial roundness, masseter BOTOX® can temporarily relax these muscles and help slim the jawline over time.
Many patients with excess buccal fat notice the tissue causes a jowl-like appearance (even in their 20s or 30s). This is because cheek fat can push the skin down over the jawline. For these patients, buccal fat removal often has a lifting effect.
If you already have a slim face that dips inward between your cheekbones and jawline, buccal fat removal probably isn’t the right procedure for you. Those with slim faces who still want more cheekbone definition could benefit from facial augmentation.
How Long Is Buccal Fat Removal Recovery?
Most patients need about a week to feel comfortable after buccal fat removal, which may require a day or two off work. The process is often compared to recovery after wisdom tooth removal. You should expect swelling for the first few weeks, which can initially make your face look rounder.
Sticking to soft foods, wearing a chin strap at night, regularly icing your cheeks, and sleeping on your back with your head elevated can reduce inflammation and speed up your recovery. You should be able to see your initial results after about three weeks, though your face may continue to settle for three to six months.
Why Choose Dr. Ellen Mahony for Facial Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Ellen Mahony is a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized for her exceptional education, technical precision, and patient-first approach. She brings decades of expertise in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Her background includes a degree in physical therapy from the University of Connecticut, a Master’s in International Health Care from Yale University, and advanced surgical training at the University of Pennsylvania, where she completed residencies in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as a fellowship in Hand and Microsurgery.
Dr. Mahony is among the few female plastic surgeons in Connecticut certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American College of Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society. She is well-known for her meticulous attention to detail and genuine care for her patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buccal fat removal specifically reduces fat pads in the lower cheeks, while procedures like jawline contouring or chin liposuction target different areas. Some patients may combine these treatments for a more defined facial profile.
Once removed, buccal fat pads do not grow back. However, future weight changes can still affect facial fullness.
Yes. The fat pads removed during the procedure are gone permanently, though aging and lifestyle changes may alter facial contours over time.
No. Incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars on the face once healing is complete.
Achieve More Sculpted Facial Contours With Buccal Fat Removal in Westport, CT
A buccal fat removal surgeon should have extensive experience, an eye for aesthetics, and a patient-focused approach to care. Dr. Mahony fits the bill as a deeply caring, board-certified plastic surgeon with a track record of gorgeous results.
Do you want a contoured look that highlights your cheekbones and jawline? Schedule your buccal fat removal consultation in Westport, Connecticut, at203-221-0102.
