Let’s face it—when it comes to achieving that coveted, chiseled jawline or those high cheekbones, sometimes even the most rigorous skincare routine and perfect contouring techniques fall short. Enter buccal fat reduction, the buzz-worthy procedure that’s extremely popular among those looking to slim down their cheeks and bring out the natural contours of their face. But before you jump on the bandwagon, let’s explore what buccal fat reduction is all about and whether it’s right for you.

What’s the Deal with Buccal Fat Reduction?

You know that adorable, round-cheeked look we all had as kids? Well, for some of us, that fullness sticks around a little longer than we’d like. Buccal fat reduction is a procedure designed to address this by removing the buccal fat pads—those little pockets of fat nestled in your lower cheeks. The result? A more sculpted, defined face that can make your cheekbones and jawline pop like never before.

This isn’t about drastically changing your appearance but rather fine-tuning it. Think of it as the ultimate touch-up, one that helps you achieve a more mature, contoured look without any tell-tale signs of surgery. And the best part? The incisions are made inside your mouth, so there’s no visible scarring. Just a sleek, streamlined profile that’s all you.

Who’s It For?

Buccal fat reduction isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’ve got a naturally round or fuller face and are longing for a bit more definition, this could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for. However, if your face is already on the angular side, you might want to think twice—removing too much fat can lead to a hollowed-out appearance as you age.

And while we’re on the topic of age, buccal fat reduction is best suited for those who are already at a stable weight and have good skin elasticity. This ensures the results are both natural-looking and long-lasting.

If you’re someone who’s ever felt self-conscious about having a “baby face” or if you’ve noticed that no matter how much weight you lose, your face always seems to stay round, buccal fat reduction might be the answer. This procedure is all about balance and enhancing what you already have, so it’s essential to have realistic expectations and understand that this is a subtle tweak, not a drastic change.

The Perks

The main draw? A more sculpted face that accentuates your best features. By reducing the volume in your lower cheeks, buccal fat reduction can make your cheekbones and jawline more prominent, giving you that effortlessly chic look you’ve been after.

But it’s not just about aesthetics—buccal fat reduction can also boost your confidence. When you look in the mirror and see a face that better reflects how you feel inside, it’s hard not to smile (and take a few more selfies). Imagine being able to skip the contouring step in your makeup routine because your natural bone structure is doing all the work. That’s the kind of low-maintenance, high-impact result that many people find appealing. Additionally, buccal fat reduction can complement other facial procedures. If you’re

considering chin augmentation, rhinoplasty, or even a facelift, buccal fat reduction can help create a more harmonious and balanced facial profile. It’s about creating symmetry and highlighting the areas that make you feel most confident.

What to Expect

If you’re imagining a long, painful recovery, think again. The procedure itself is quick, usually taking about an hour, and while you might experience some swelling and bruising afterward, these usually fade within a week or two. Most people are back to their regular routines within days, though it’s smart to take it easy on the workouts for a bit longer.

In the first few days post-procedure, it’s normal to feel some discomfort, but this is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. The swelling might cause your face to look a little puffier than usual, but don’t worry—that’s just temporary. As the swelling goes down, you’ll start to see your new, more defined face emerge. In fact, many people find that the gradual unveiling of their results is one of the most exciting parts of the process.

The best part? The results just keep getting better with time. As the weeks go by, your face will settle into its new shape, and you’ll notice a subtle but significant difference in your overall appearance. The final results are typically seen around three to six months after the procedure, once all the swelling has completely subsided.

Is It Right for You?

Deciding to go for buccal fat reduction is a personal choice, and it’s important to consult with a skilled facial plastic surgeon to make sure it’s the right move for you. At The Spiegel Center, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeons are pros at creating natural, balanced results that enhance, rather than alter, your unique beauty. We take the time to understand your goals, assess

Ready to Transform Your Look?

If you’re curious about buccal fat reduction and want to explore whether it’s the right choice for you, we’re here to help. At The Spiegel Center, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and offering personalized, expert care every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting to consider this procedure or are ready to take the next step, our team is here to support you on your journey to a more sculpted, confident you.

Take the first step toward your transformation by scheduling a consultation with us today. Let’s discover how buccal fat reduction can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.


Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel


Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

With special expertise in all aspects of facial plastic surgery, and a particular skill for revision surgery, it’s clear why Dr. Spiegel is one of the most celebrated facial plastic surgeons in the world. If you are seeking the best possible results, or have a uniquely challenging problem, you’ve found the right doctor.

Learn More About Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

Dr. Onir L. Spiegel


Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Onir (pronounced “oh-near”) has years of experience in facial aesthetics and treats some of the most recognizable and famous faces. Dr. Onir started her career in oral health, earning doctorate degrees from both New York University and Boston University. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her cutting-edge medical research as well as her technical skills in dentistry.

Learn More About Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Jacob Tower


Dr. Jacob Tower

A board-certified specialist in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jacob Tower brings a thoughtful approach and an artistic eye to New England’s premier plastic surgery practice, The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts. In addition to being an in-demand surgeon, Dr. Tower is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Medicine, a sought-after lecturer, and an expert in facial plastic surgery.

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