Give The Spiegel Center a phone call at 617-566-3223
Book Now

Are You Bothered By Full Cheeks?

One common request the team at The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts, receives from Asian patients is to reduce the size of full cheeks. Many would like their face to appear less round and more angular. Our doctors are specialists in facial plastic surgery and have performed countless buccal fat removals that have given patients the sculpted, toned, or chiseled face of their dreams.

Intro media

What Is Buccal Fat?

Thick or chubby cheeks are a hallmark of childhood, but some people never lose the chipmunk-cheek look. Typically childhood fat diminishes in the face with age, but for some, the fat in their cheeks remains well into adulthood; this is largely genetic. Buccal fat is the padding of fat between the cheekbone and the jawline. 

Background media

Why Remove It?

A large quantity of this fatty tissue causes protruding cheeks. It is not uncommon for those of Asian descent to have an abundance of buccal fat. The fat itself is contained in its own little pocket, which makes removing all or some of it a simple procedure.

Background media

Won't I Need Buccal Fat As I Get Older?

Many patients worry that removing buccal fat will make their faces look old in their advanced years and give them a gaunt appearance. However, everyone experiences volume loss as they age, which is easily corrected with dermal fillers. At some point, dermal fillers become necessary to maintain a youthful look for most people, which means you can rest assured knowing that you can look good at any stage of life.

Background media

What To Expect During The Procedure

Buccal fat removal is a straightforward procedure that typically lasts under an hour and can be done under local anesthesia. Patients are comfortable the entire time, however sedation is available upon request. A small incision is made inside the mouth and the pad of buccal fat is gently teased out.

Finally, the incision is closed with dissolvable sutures. Though the procedure has relatively few steps, a delicate and meticulous touch is still required. Only an experienced plastic surgeon understands how much buccal fat to remove and how to contour the fat that remains for a sculpted, natural result. 

Banner media

Buccal Fat ReductionBefore & After

Buccal Fat Removal Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal Fat Removal Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal Fat Removal Buccal Fat Removal
View More Buccal Fat Reduction Results
asian woman with long straight hair

Is Buccal Fat Removal Right For Me?

Do you feel self-conscious of your cheeks, and think they are too big? Do you think you look immature or childlike? The removal of your buccal fat could be a solution. Buccal fat is not affected by diet or exercise, which means that surgical removal is the most effective option. Those that pursue buccal fat removal:

  • Want a more contoured lower face
  • Have convex mid-faces or “chipmunk cheeks”
  • Dislike the size and shape of their faces
  • Are in good overall health
  • Have realistic expectations

An Easy, Quick Recovery

Patients do not need to plan for extensive downtime after buccal fat removal. In fact, many resume light desk work and socializing the very next day. As with any surgical procedure, there will be swelling. Our doctors suggest the use of ice packs for relief. 

You can eat whatever you like immediately afterwards, though acidic and spicy foods may sting somewhat in the beginning. In about 5-7 days, the sutures will dissolve on their own. Patients will typically come in for a follow-up visit to confirm everything is healing properly.

A Noticeably Slimmer Face

As soon as the swelling subsides in a few days, your face will be narrower and more contoured. Final results settle in around 3-6 months. Buccal fat removal is very popular among Asian patients because the results are stellar, and the procedure is quick with minimal recovery time. 

It is worth noting that while buccal fat will not regenerate, significant weight gain can expand any fat cells that remain. Maintaining a steady weight is strongly recommended for long-lasting results. 

Background media

Trust Two Decades Of Expertise 

The expert team at The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts, are world-renowned for their skill with cosmetic surgeries; they receive patients from all over the country and the globe who are attracted by their consistently excellent results and sterling reputation. 

Our doctors are double board-certified, and have been practicing cosmetic surgery for years. To schedule your consultation for buccal fat removal, call The Spiegel Center today!

crystals

Buccal Fat Removal FAQ

Is buccal fat removal safe for all ethnicities and face shapes?

Yes. The Spiegel Center has extensive experience performing buccal fat removal for patients of all backgrounds. Every treatment is tailored to your unique anatomy and cosmetic goals to ensure a result that aligns beautifully with your natural features.

How long is the recovery after buccal fat removal?

Recovery is typically mild and quick. Most patients experience minimal swelling and resume normal activities within a few days. Because the procedure is performed inside the mouth, there are no visible scars, and results become more noticeable as swelling resolves over the following weeks.

Is buccal fat removal permanent?

Yes, buccal fat removal is a permanent procedure. Once the fat pads are removed, they do not return. However, significant weight changes can still affect facial fullness, so maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your results long term.

Can buccal fat removal be combined with other procedures?

Absolutely. Buccal fat removal is often paired with treatments like chin augmentation, cheek fillers, or a facelift to enhance overall facial balance. The Spiegel Center offers comprehensive evaluations to design a personalized plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals and delivers natural, refined results.

How soon will I see results after buccal fat removal?

You may notice subtle improvements within the first few weeks, but final results typically become visible after about 3 months, once all swelling has resolved. The outcome is a naturally contoured, more sculpted facial shape that continues to refine over time.

Related Reviews

Procedure: Buccal Fat Removal

Source: Eleanor P., Google Review, 5/18/22
I had an excellent experience in The Spiegel Center. although everyone is very professional and friendly, my experience with Eleanor and April was excellent. I am very happy with my results, this is now my place to go for fillers or anything aesthetics that i need. Dr. Onir and Dr. Spiegel provide you with a welcome and friendly environment. Thank you all!

Read More Reviews
Related reviews

Related Procedures

Related Videos

Video 1
Video 2
Video 3
All Procedure Videos

Related Blog Posts

Do you want to Get Cheeky or Stop Being Cheeky?

“Cheeky” is a British adjective for being impudent, audacious, impertinent, or irreverent, though perhaps in a fun way. ...

Read More

How to identify the best plastic surgeon

Selecting a surgeon to help you look and feel your best is among the most important decisions you will make, but how sho...

Read More

Schedule a Consultation

Schedule a Consultation
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 617-566-3223.
Contact Us