If you’re looking to slim your face and enhance your cheekbones, you’ve probably come across both cheek liposuction and buccal fat removal as potential options. While both procedures can sculpt the lower face, they are quite different in how they achieve their results.
Understanding these differences is key to making the right choice for your facial contouring goals. Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know to help you decide which procedure might be best for you.
What Makes Buccal Fat Removal and Cheek Liposuction Any Different?
Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that removes the fat pad located beneath your cheekbone, creating a more contoured look. On the other hand, cheek liposuction involves using a thin tube and a suction device to remove excess fat from the cheeks. While both procedures slim the face, they work in distinct ways and are suited for different aesthetic goals.
Buccal Fat Removal vs Cheek Liposuction
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure that targets the fat pads located beneath the cheekbones to create a slimmer, more sculpted face. During the procedure, a small incision is made inside the mouth, allowing the surgeon to remove the fat pads with minimal external scarring. This approach is ideal for individuals with fuller cheeks who want a more defined facial structure. Unlike cheek liposuction, buccal fat removal is best suited for those with naturally rounder faces.
What is Cheek Liposuction?
Cheek liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove excess fat from the cheeks using a small suction device called a cannula. The surgeon makes tiny incisions near the targeted areas and carefully removes unwanted fat to contour the face. Unlike buccal fat removal, which eliminates a specific fat pad, cheek liposuction allows for more customized fat reduction in various areas of the lower face, making it ideal for individuals with localized fat deposits rather than overall fullness.
Who is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is ideal for individuals with naturally fuller cheeks who want a more contoured, sculpted facial appearance. This procedure works best for those who are at a stable weight and have good skin elasticity, ensuring smooth results post-surgery. It is particularly beneficial for people who feel that their face appears too round or “baby-faced” and want a more defined look. However, those with already low facial fat or older individuals with less skin elasticity may not be ideal candidates, as it can make the face appear overly hollow over time.
Who is a Good Candidate for Cheek Liposuction?
Cheek liposuction is suited for individuals who have excess fat deposits in the lower cheek area that do not improve with diet and exercise. It is an excellent option for those who want subtle fat reduction without removing a specific fat pad, making it a more customizable approach. Candidates should have good skin elasticity to ensure a smooth, natural contour after the fat removal. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have noticeable fullness in the lower face rather than overall roundness, and it can be a great complement to other facial contouring treatments.
Start Your Journey to Success, Don’t Wait More!
Join our satisfied clients who’ve experienced safe, effective treatments.
How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?
The cost of buccal fat removal varies depending on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, clinic location, and additional fees like anesthesia and facility charges. On average, the procedure costs around $4,500, with prices ranging from $1,800 to $9,400, according to RealSelf. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, insurance does not cover the cost, making it an out-of-pocket expense. Similar to cheek liposuction, the final price will depend on your provider and geographic location.
How Much Does Cheek Liposuction Cost?
Cheek liposuction is typically more expensive than buccal fat removal, largely due to the technique and tools involved. While general liposuction can range from $3,500 to $20,000, facial liposuction tends to cost around $5,000, though this varies by location and surgeon expertise. Like buccal fat removal, cheek liposuction is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. Additional factors like anesthesia fees, clinic costs, and follow-up care may also influence the overall price.
The Buccal Fat Removal Recovery
Buccal fat removal recovery is relatively straightforward, with most patients experiencing swelling and mild discomfort for the first week. Stitches placed inside the mouth dissolve on their own within 7-10 days, and patients can usually return to normal activities within a week. Full results become visible as swelling subsides over the next 3-4 weeks. Compared to cheek liposuction, buccal fat removal has a quicker healing process since there are no external incisions, reducing the risk of noticeable scarring.
The Cheek Liposuction Recovery
Cheek liposuction recovery takes slightly longer due to the nature of the procedure. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and tenderness for up to two weeks, with most returning to daily activities within 10-14 days. Compression garments may be required to help control swelling and promote proper healing. Unlike buccal fat removal, which removes a defined fat pad, cheek liposuction involves contouring multiple areas, which can lead to a more gradual reduction in swelling. Full results are typically visible within 3-6 months as the skin adjusts to its new contour.
Patient Results
* All patients are unique and individual results may vary.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal offers several benefits for individuals looking for a more defined facial contour. It provides permanent fat reduction in a specific area, making it an excellent choice for those with naturally fuller cheeks. Compared to cheek liposuction, it involves minimal external incisions and a quicker healing process.
- Less risk of uneven fat removal – Since it removes a specific fat pad, the results tend to be uniform and predictable.
- No external incisions – Since the procedure is performed through the inside of the mouth, there are no visible scars.
- Faster recovery – Most patients recover within a week, experiencing minimal post-surgical discomfort.
- Ideal for rounder faces – It is a great option for individuals with naturally full cheeks who want a more sculpted look.
- Generally lower cost – On average, buccal fat removal is less expensive than cheek liposuction, making it a more cost-effective option for those seeking facial contouring.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing Cheek Liposuction?
Cheek liposuction is a highly customizable procedure that allows for precise contouring of the lower face. It is ideal for individuals looking to remove targeted fat pockets without altering their overall facial structure. Compared to buccal fat removal, it provides more flexibility in shaping the face.
- Good for individuals with less facial fat – Since it removes fat in a controlled manner, it’s a great option for those who need minor contouring rather than a dramatic reduction.
- More customizable fat removal – The surgeon can sculpt different areas of the lower face, rather than just targeting a single fat pad.
- Better for localized fat deposits – Ideal for those who have excess fat in specific areas rather than overall facial fullness.
- Can be combined with other procedures – Works well alongside neck liposuction or chin augmentation for enhanced facial balance.
How To Choose Between Cheek Liposuction and Buccal Fat Removal?
Choosing between cheek liposuction and buccal fat removal can be challenging, but consulting with an experienced facial plastic surgeon can make all the difference. A skilled specialist will assess your facial structure, aesthetic goals, and skin elasticity to recommend the best procedure for your unique needs.
Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein, a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializes in facial contouring procedures, including cheek liposuction and buccal fat removal. With over two decades of experience, he provides personalized recommendations to help you achieve balanced, natural-looking results. Call us today at (845) 863-1772 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your ideal facial contour.
