Buccal fat is the pad of fat in your cheeks. For some people, this fat pad is thicker and causes the cheeks to look chubby. Some people refer to this as a “baby face” or “chipmunk cheeks.” A bigger buccal fat pad can cause your face to look overly round or less mature.

So what is the #1 reason to get buccal fat reduction/removal? For most people, the reason is to reduce this childlike appearance of chubby cheeks. Removing part of the buccal fat pad results in a more sculpted facial shape, and a more defined jawline.

Buccal fat removal surgery is a facial rejuvenation procedure that enhances facial appearance for men and women, including a more youthful appearance around the corners of the mouth. Buccal fat removal increases confidence, and can contribute to a better quality of life.

When is buccal fat removal needed?

Sometimes excess buccal fat is caused by being overweight. In this case, diet and exercise can reduce the buccal fat pads.

For most people, buccal fat tends to naturally reduce with age, leaving the face more defined and adult-looking. However, people who have larger fat pads can have persistent buccal fat well into their adult life. For many people, persistent buccal fat is genetic. This means that diet and exercise won’t be enough to reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks.

Buccal fat pad removal surgery will remove a portion of the fat to achieve a more sculpted, mature and defined appearance. This procedure is quick, takes less than an hour, has a short recovery period, and provides permanent facial thinning.

What are some of the benefits of buccal fat reduction?

  • No visible scars (incisions are made from the inside of the cheek)
  • Permanent results
  • Short procedure time, done with local anesthesia
  • Minimal downtime and recovery period

Is buccal fat removal for me?

Buccal fat removal is best for people who have persistent buccal fat, and who want to reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks. There are several factors that determine whether you are a good candidate for buccal fat removal:

  • You do not smoke
  • You are generally in good health
  • Your face is not too thin or narrow
  • You’re at a stable weight, within 20 pounds of your goal weight
  • You have realistic expectations about what this procedure can do for you

Buccal fat removal with Dr. Ridgway

Dr. Ridgway is a fellow and member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American College of Surgeons, American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery. His practice encompasses the entire spectrum of facial plastics including buccal fat removal. He is an expert at performing reconstructive surgeries, laser resurfacing, trauma and cancer reconstruction, as well as minimally invasive procedures.

 


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If you are ready to refresh and rejuvenate your look today, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the best plastic surgeons Seattle has to offer: Dr. James M. Ridgway. During your private consultation Dr. Ridgway will carefully evaluate your face and the subtle imperfections that concern you most before providing you with a personalized blend of Bellevue cosmetic surgery procedures that will help you achieve your ideal facial appearance.

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