A well-contoured face with defined cheekbones and a sculpted jawline is often considered the hallmark of facial balance and beauty. For individuals with naturally round or full cheeks, buccal fat removal can create a slimmer, more refined facial appearance. At Gaines Plastic Surgery in Gainesville, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Greg Gaines offers this specialized procedure to help patients achieve subtle, natural-looking facial definition.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat is a naturally occurring fat pad located deep within the lower cheeks, between the facial muscles. While buccal fat contributes to facial fullness, some individuals have more prominent fat pads, which can make the lower face appear rounder than desired.
Buccal fat removal, or buccal lipectomy, is a minor surgical procedure designed to carefully remove part or all of these fat pads to create a slimmer, more contoured look. The goal is not to dramatically alter facial features, but to enhance cheekbone definition and reduce lower facial fullness for a more sculpted appearance.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
- Slimmer, more refined facial contours
- Enhanced cheekbone and jawline definition
- Improved balance and proportion of facial features
- Permanent reduction of lower cheek fullness
The results are subtle and natural, helping you look refreshed and contoured without an “overdone” appearance.
Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal
This procedure is best suited for individuals who:
- Feel their face looks round or chubby despite being at a healthy weight
- Desire more angular or sculpted facial features
- Are in good overall health with stable weight
- Understand that results should complement natural facial structure
During your consultation, Dr. Gaines will evaluate your anatomy and determine whether buccal fat removal — or another facial contouring option — is best for achieving your goals.
How the Procedure Works
Buccal fat removal is typically performed using local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia for comfort. Dr. Gaines makes a small incision inside the mouth, carefully accesses the buccal fat pad, and removes the precise amount needed for balance and symmetry. Because the incision is internal, there are no visible scars. The procedure usually takes under an hour, and you can typically return home the same day.
Buccal Fat Removal Recovery and Results
Recovery is generally straightforward. Some mild swelling and tenderness are expected for the first few days, but these effects diminish quickly. You can usually return to normal activities within a week. As swelling subsides, the new facial contours gradually become more defined. Final results typically appear within two to three months and are permanent.
Why Choose Dr. Greg Gaines
Dr. Gaines is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over three decades of surgical experience. Known for his meticulous approach and natural-looking results, he combines advanced surgical skill with an artistic eye for facial balance. Patients throughout Gainesville and North Central Florida trust him for precision, safety, and individualized care.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re ready to explore how buccal fat removal can enhance your natural contours, contact Gaines Plastic Surgery at (352) 333-9600 to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Greg Gaines. Discover a slimmer, more sculpted version of you — performed safely by a trusted, board-certified expert in facial aesthetics.
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