When patients tell us they feel their face looks “too round” or “too full,” they are often pointing to the area in the lower cheek. Even at a healthy weight, some people naturally carry more fullness there. It can hide the natural angles of the face and make you look heavier or younger than you are. That is where buccal fat removal, sometimes called cheek liposuction, can be a very effective option.
Buccal fat is a pocket of fat that sits deep in the lower cheek, between the corner of the mouth and the jaw. Some people have very little. Others have a larger pad that gives the face a baby faced or chipmunk cheek look. No amount of dieting or gym time will remove it, because it is not the same as general body fat. It is a specific anatomic structure.
During buccal fat removal, Dr. Randy Sanovich will make a small incision inside the mouth, high in the cheek. There are no visible external scars and the goal is to gently slim the area to highlight the cheekbones and jawline.
Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the recovery is. You may have some swelling, mild soreness, and a feeling of fullness in the cheeks for a week or two. Since the incision is inside the mouth, I usually recommend a soft diet for a few days and careful oral hygiene. Bruising on the outside is typically minimal. Many people are comfortable going back to work within a few days.
So why do patients love this procedure? Because the change is subtle yet powerful. The face looks more sculpted and contoured. Makeup applies more smoothly. The midface and jawline look better defined, even when you are not posing for a photo. It often pairs nicely with other contouring procedures, such as chin liposuction, chin implants, or jawline fillers, for a balanced, refined look.
It is important to note that buccal fat removal is not right for everyone. In patients with very thin faces or advanced aging, taking too much fat can lead to a gaunt look over time. Consult with our office to learn more about buccal fat removal and if it's right for you!