Buccal Fat

Helps reduce fullness in the cheeks so the face shape looks more defined.

What is buccal fat reduction

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure to remove some of the fat inside the cheeks. It can make the cheeks look slimmer.

The amount of fat removed needs to suit the face shape. If too much is removed, the cheeks can look too hollow, especially as the face changes with age.

What concerns can it address

• The middle to lower cheeks look full.
• The cheeks still look full even at an ideal weight or when not overweight.
• You want a more defined face shape.

Full-looking cheeks are not always caused by fat inside the cheek. The doctor will examine you before the procedure.

How is it done

• The doctor examines the face, cheeks, and skin to assess whether the cheeks could look too hollow after some of the fat is removed.
• The doctor makes a small incision on the inside of the cheek, so there is no incision scar on the outer skin of the face.
• The doctor removes some of the fat based on the examination and the treatment plan.
• The incision is closed, and the doctor gives instructions for caring for the treated area during recovery.

Who may be suitable for this procedure

• Cheeks that look full.
• Feeling less confident because of full-looking cheeks.
• Cheek fat that does not go down even after other treatments.
• Expectations that match their facial condition.

How long is the procedure and recovery

Stage	Estimate	Notes
Procedure time	About 30-60 minutes	Time can differ depending on the technique and the patient’s condition.
Early recovery	Days 1-4	Swelling, discomfort, and difficulty opening the mouth can occur.
Symptoms ease	Days 7-14	Swelling usually starts to go down and activity feels more comfortable.
Results start to show	About 1 month	The cheek shape becomes clearer once the swelling has gone down.
Contour becomes more stable	Months 3-6	The face contour looks more natural as recovery continues.
Assessing the final result	Months 6-12	The final result can be assessed once healing is more complete.

Are other treatments needed

Treatment	Supporting benefit	When to consider
Face Contour with HA	Helps correct hollow areas or define certain parts of the face.	6 months after surgery or once recovery is complete
Botox Masseter	Makes the jawline look slimmer	After early recovery and once the doctor confirms it is safe.
GLOSKIN Laser / Skin Quality	Helps even out skin tone and smooth the skin.	Done after the wound has healed and the doctor confirms it is safe.
Tightening treatment	Considered if the skin looks quite loose.	Not always needed. The timing and type of treatment are decided based on the doctor’s examination.

What is discussed in a consultation at GLOSKIN

• What makes the cheeks look full.
• Whether cheek fat reduction suits the face shape and the patient’s goals.
• How much fat can be removed without making the cheeks look too hollow.
• How the face shape may change with age.
• The treatment plan, recovery period, wound care, and which foods to choose for a while.
• The risks that may occur, including infection, changes in sensation in the cheek area, differences between the two sides of the face, and injury to the facial nerves or salivary ducts.
• Realistic results and whether other treatments should be considered.

Every procedure starts with a consultation and examination by the doctor. Results, risks, and recovery time can differ for each patient.