Categorized as cosmetic surgery, the procedure is not very invasive and typically takes less than 30 minutes to perform under local anesthesia. Dr. Smith adds that removing the fat pads "is considered a minimally invasive surgical procedure because they only require a relatively tiny incision inside each cheek and has a full recovery time of only about one week to 10 days."
During the procedure, a "2cm incision is made inside the cheek by going through the mouth," Dr. Douglas says. "There are no incisions on the outside of the face, so there are no visible scars."
How Much Does Buccal Fat Pad Surgery Cost?
While the exact number depends on your geographic location and which doctor you decide to see, you can expect the cost for a buccal fat pad excision to start at around $5K. That price is usually not covered by insurance since it is an elective procedure.
Is Buccal Fat Removal Permanent?
Yes. If you're getting this procedure done, make sure it's something you really want because the results are permanent. As Dr. Smith says, "Once the fat is removed, it does not grow back."
How Old Do You Have to Be For a Buccal Fat Removal Procedure?
"This procedure can be performed at any age after facial maturity is achieved," Dr. Smith says. Though, typically the earliest he sees patients for it is in their mid-to-late 20s.
If you would like to err on the side of caution, Dr. Douglas recommends waiting until your mid-to-late-30s because facial fat may reduce on its own. "Our buccal fat pads settle and 'mature' when we are about 21," he says. "Most patients will see a slow, progressive, and ongoing reduction in the buccal fat starting at 30 or so. Those decreases continue through the decade and continue into our 40s and 50s, creating hollows, which contribute to laxity and aging."
What to Expect Pre- and Post-Operation
