What is the surgery that takes fat out of your cheeks?

Author: Prof. Stewart Cremin V  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Buccal fat removal is an elective plastic surgery procedure to remove fat in the lower cheek, which gives the bottom part of the face a narrower shape and emphasizes the cheekbones and jawline. Buccal fat is a pad of adipose tissue (fat) in the cheek below each cheekbone.

How much does it cost to remove fat from cheeks?

The average cost can range between $2,000 and $5,000, and in some cases can be as much as $20,000. Some people don't enjoy having a “baby face" or full cheeks in adulthood and opt for a more streamlined or mature look through a procedure known as buccal fat removal.

Is there a surgery to get rid of chubby cheeks?

Buccal fat removal surgery is a cosmetic procedure during which a surgeon removes a portion of the fat pads in the lower cheeks. The surgery is typically done under local anesthesia, although intravenous or general anesthesia can also be used.

How do I remove fat from my cheeks?

Ways to reduce facial fat include exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet rich in whole fruits and vegetables, limiting processed and sugary foods, and staying hydrated. Other certain lifestyle and diet changes can further help a person lose weight and achieve a slimmer-looking face.

How long does fat transfer to cheeks last?

Do fat transfers last? Results from fat transfer are permanent. However, not all fat cells survive the procedure, so you may not achieve the volume you want. It takes about six months for the injected fat cells to develop a new blood supply and to see final results.

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What are the disadvantages of fat transfer to the face?

You may experience these side effects from liposuction or an under-eye fat transfer:
  • Bleeding.
  • Bruising.
  • Infection.
  • Lumps or cysts.
  • Skin damage or scarring.
  • Swelling (edema).

Is cheek fat removal permanent?

The buccal fat pads are removed permanently; they do not grow back. Your new face shape should last, unless you experience substantial weight gain or loss. Aging after buccal fat reduction can intensify the slimming effects. As people age, they lose fat and muscle volume in the face naturally.

Do people regret buccal fat removal?

Many individuals who have undergone an aggressive buccal fat removal find themselves dissatisfied with their results, especially as they age. Some have expressed regret online, sharing that they feel their faces now look older and less youthful than they would have liked.

Can you get rid of chubby cheeks without surgery?

Non-Surgical Face Slimming

These methods typically involve cosmetic injectables and laser and radiofrequency therapy. For example, Dysport®, a face-slimming solution, is a way to reshape the masseter muscles (the muscles in the lower jawline and cheeks) without needing surgery.

What causes fat cheeks?

Poor Diet: High-calorie and processed foods can lead to overall and facial weight gain. Many of these foods are deceptively high in calories and it can be easy to exceed daily recommended consumption levels. Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to weight gain, affecting the face.

Does insurance cover buccal fat removal?

Most insurance providers do not cover the cost of cheek-thinning surgery, since this is considered a nonessential cosmetic procedure. However, some surgeons and medical practices may offer payment plans. It may take several months to see results. Barring excessive weight gain, the outcome is usually permanent.

What to eat to lose face fat?

Cut out sugary drinks, processed foods, and refined carbs. Instead, focus on eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. These healthy food choices will help to boost your metabolism and promote weight loss. Incorporate some cardio into your routine.

Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?

Who is a Good Candidate? Buccal fat removal surgery is a procedure that is ideal for individuals who have concerns with chubby cheeks that appear too round or full. Ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal are physically healthy, maintain a stable weight, have realistic expectations, and are non-smoking.

Why is buccal fat removal so expensive?

Buccal fat removal costs may include:

Hospital or surgical facility costs. Anesthesia fees. Prescriptions for medication. Medical tests and x-rays.

Can CoolSculpting remove cheek fat?

CoolSculpting is currently not FDA cleared for on the face. It's FDA cleared for jawline, and under the chin. Many clients think they're pursuing cool sculpting face treatments, but really they're looking for CoolSculpting chin teratments.

What celebrities have had buccal fat removal?

Kendall Jenner: The supermodel and reality TV star's sharp cheekbones have led to speculation that she may have had the procedure to accentuate her facial structure. Chrissy Teigen: The model and cookbook author is open about her experiences with cosmetic procedures, and she has confirmed buccal fat pad removal.

Can chewing gum reduce face fat?

The answer to 'does chewing gum reduce face fat' would be no. Chewing gum does not reduce face fat. It is a popularised myth that chewing gum reduces face fat. The simple fact is that you cannot reduce fat from one spot.

What is the difference between buccal fat removal and cheek liposuction?

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.

What is the towel method for face fat?

The towel method is an exercise social media fitness influencers claim reduces fat around your chin and makes your jaw look sharper and slimmer. It involves chewing on a folded towel for 2 sets of 40 reps each. It can strengthen your jaw muscles but also damage your teeth and cause painful jaw disorders.

What are the downsides of buccal fat removal?

The possible risks of buccal fat removal surgery include, but are not limited to:
  • Anesthesia risks.
  • Asymmetry.
  • Bleeding.
  • Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications.
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma)
  • Hematoma.
  • Infection.
  • Injury to a salivary duct.

Does buccal fat removal look bad as you age?

Does buccal fat removal look bad as you age? Not if performed on an ideal candidate. Patients who are not good candidates for the procedure may see their results not age well. This is why it is important to go to an experienced surgeon who can gauge whether buccal fat removal is ideal for you in the long term.

How painful is buccal fat removal?

You'll receive a local anesthetic to numb the skin on your face so you won't feel any pain. You'll remain awake during the procedure.

Does cheek fat go with age?

As you get older the skin on your face can start to sag and you lose volume around the temples, eyes, cheeks, mouth, jawline and chin. Many individuals attribute facial aging to gravity and the laxity of skin tissues, however, facial fat volume depletion has a strong impact on the appearance of your face.

Why are my cheeks so chubby?

Chubby cheeks can be caused either by genetics, weight gain, or your underlying facial anatomy, with fat gain being the primary cause, followed by genetics and facial anatomy. However, you could be affected by a combination of the factors too. Fat cheeks can be the result of genetics.

How long does cheek surgery last?

Cheek implants are designed to last a lifetime if suitably placed. There are other options available to patients who wish to enhance their cheeks without undergoing surgery, such as dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are less invasive than cheek surgery and can provide stunning results.

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