Buccal Fat Pad Excision
The buccal fat pad (fat pad of Bichat) is a deep pocket of fat below the malar eminence (cheek) and behind the buccinator muscle which can produce a more rounded and full face. Buccal fat pad excision can be performed to improve the definition of the face and narrow an excessively round face.
While the procedure is subtle in its overall result, when performed correctly it can produce a more prominent depression below the cheek region. Caution must be exercised in removing too much of the fat pad as it can leave for a skeletonized appearance to the face, especially later in life.
The Procedure
Through an incision in the mouth extending approximately 2-3cm, the buccinator muscle is separated with a clamp to gain access to the buccal fat pad. Fat is then gently extracted and removed to provide a “hollowing” effect of the cheek region.
Is Financing Available?
Yes! Medical Financing is available on approved credit. We accept financing from CareCredit.com. For more information about our Financing options
Anesthesia
Typically we recommend performing the procedure under some form of light sedation or anesthesia to allow for easier manipulation of the jaw and intra-oral structures.
Things to Look for In your Surgeon:
- Experience: With 2 generations of doctors, over 30,000 procedures and a lifetimes worth of combined experience, Dr. Nikolas V. Chugay and Dr. Paul N. Chugay have not only the required experience in various surgical and non surgical procedures but Nikolas has helped revolutionize the industry, and Paul is following very closely in his father’s footsteps, drawing on over 40 years of experience.
- Compatibility & Respect: Book a consultation with the doctor. Get a feel for how they treat you; whether they listen to you and what you want. It’s important to thoroughly discuss what you’re trying to achieve with your doctor so they have a clear, concise idea of what your goal is but it’s equally important that you respect your doctor’s experience and education enough to listen to their recommendations. You don’t want a doctor that doesn’t care about YOU.
- Specialization: Ask your doctor about other times they’ve performed the procedure you want.
After your Surgery
It is very common for patients to have an exaggerated appearance after the procedure and have the appearance of a chipmunk due to significant swelling. To minimize post operative swelling and the risk of seroma/hematoma formation (fluid accumulation), we recommend icing of the cheeks in the 48 hours after surgery. We also provide patients a prescription for antibiotics along with an oral rinse to minimize the risk of infection.
