What Is Buccal Fat Removal & What Are Its Risks?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgery procedure that has recently gained visibility and popularity amongst those seeking to enhance their facial appearance. While the surgery has been around for some time, its recent rise in popularity can be attributed to a surge in videos about it circulating on the social media platform TikTok. As with all viral cosmetic procedures, it is essential to understand what the surgery entails and its risks before deciding to pursue it.

What happens during Buccal Fat Removal? 

The procedure involves removing buccal fat pads located in the cheeks, which are responsible for the roundness and fullness of the face. Many people choose to undergo the procedure to achieve a more youthful and sculpted appearance. This procedure aims to create a more defined “V-shaped” cheekbone structure and reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks. Some patients also opt for buccal fat removal as a part of a more extensive facial rejuvenation procedure, such as a facelift.

What are the Risks of Buccal Fat Removal?

Despite its new popularity, buccal fat removal carries some risks and is not suitable for everyone.

The most significant risk associated with this procedure is the potential for premature ageing. As we age, our faces naturally lose volume and fat. While removing buccal fat pads may create a more defined look in the short term, it can lead to a hollowed-out appearance over time. This can make patients appear gaunt or older than they are, which is often the opposite of what they are hoping to achieve through cosmetic surgery. Individuals with slim or sharp faces are thus not advised to undergo buccal fat removal in case of premature ageing.

The permanence of buccal fat removal is another potential risk to consider. Unlike other cosmetic treatments such as thread lifts or fillers (which can be adjusted or removed), you cannot grow back buccal fat once the surgery is completed. Individuals hesitant about pursuing such permanent changes can look into alternative cosmetic treatments instead.

What are the Alternatives to Buccal Fat Removal?

If you wish to achieve similar face-slimming results as buccal fat surgery, there are still other treatment options you can consider.

Thread lifts, for example, are a minimally invasive treatment that can help to lift and tighten the skin on the face. This treatment involves inserting tiny threads under the skin, which are then lifted to create a more youthful appearance. Thermage FLX treatment can also help to target fine lines and loose skin in order to create a lifted appearance. It works by delivering heat into your skin’s layers through Mono-polar Capacitive Radiofrequency (RF) technology, which stimulates collagen production. This encourages skin renewal to achieve a skin tightening effect.

Another alternative to buccal fat removal is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment. HIFU treatment uses ultrasound waves to stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin. This results in tighter and firmer skin with fewer wrinkles, and helps create a more lifted and youthful appearance without surgery.

In conclusion, while buccal fat removal might be experiencing a surge of visibility right now, it’s important to consider its potential risks before deciding to undergo the surgery. It is best to discuss all options with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for you.

Discover Aesthetic Treatments at Shiro Aesthetic Clinic

Here at Shiro Aesthetic Clinic, we offer non-surgical face and thread lifts, HIFU toning treatment, Thermage FLX and other cosmetic services to our clients in Singapore.

Our treatments aim to help you improve your skin texture and appearance in order to restore your confidence. Before any treatment, our cosmetic doctor will conduct a thorough consult with you so that you are aware of any risks and advise you on the right treatments that will help you meet your cosmetic goals.

Book a consultation with us today to find out about our services, or learn more about cosmetic procedures on our blog.