There is no denying that buccal fat removal has grown in popularity, seen on social media and flaunted by celebrities.
Around the globe, approximately 4,543 patients underwent this procedure in 2022. In the same year, a London-based plastic surgery clinic reported performing 99 buccal fat reduction procedures between 2020 and 2022.
Clearly, it is a lot more than a fad but a growing desire among many and has become a hot trend in the plastic surgery world. If you are in the market for a more sculpted and contoured face, then welcome. This article is most definitely for you!
Join us as we learn everything (or at least almost everything) there is to know about this facial slimming procedure.
What Buccal Fat Removal Surgery Entails
Basically, buccal fat removal (also known as cheek contouring surgery or cheek reduction surgery) is a surgical procedure that involves removing the fat pads from the lower part of your cheeks. This creates a more sculpted and defined look.
These fat pads are naturally present in your cheeks, helping with facial symmetry and shape. However, for some, they can make the face look fuller or rounder (and not everybody loves the sound of that). Therefore, it goes without saying, that by removing or reducing these fat pads, your cheeks become slimmer, and your face takes on a more angular, contoured appearance (think Bella Hadid).
How Did This Face Fat Removal Surgery Come About?
We love the way you think. Until recently, I was not even aware we had fat bad in our cheeks that could be removed! The more you know, right? So, the concept of buccal fat removal is not entirely a brand-new idea. In fact, the procedure dates back to the early 19th century when surgeons first explored it as a way to correct facial deformities. However, it was only in the 1970s that it started to catch people’s attention for its visually appealing benefits.
Insert French surgeon Dr Paul Tessier. He popularised the fat removal technique in the 70s. He did this by using buccal fat removal in reconstructive surgeries for patients with congenital facial deformities and found that it helped reshape the lower face, giving it a more defined look.
It goes without saying that over the years the procedure evolved. In the 1980s and 1990s, it started gaining popularity as a go-to method for creating a slimmer, more sculpted appearance. By the 2000s, it moved beyond reconstructive surgery and into the mainstream, with more people seeking it to contour their faces.
With the rise of social media in the 2010s (Instagram, we are looking at you), its popularity sky-rocketed even more. A survey by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) found that 42% of members reported patients requesting procedures after seeing them on social media. Celebrities and influencers began sharing their facial contouring results, inspiring even more people to try buccal fat removal to achieve the same look.
Today, it is a common procedure around the world available to not only Chrissy Teigen and Khloé Kardashian but to you and me as well.
The Ideal Cheek Fat Removal Candidate
If you want a more chiselled look or have a fuller face due to extra fat in your cheeks, buccal fat pad removal may just be for you. It is also commonly sought by those in their late 20s to early 40s, as younger individuals often see better results since their skin tends to be more elastic. Older adults with looser skin may not achieve the same level of contouring.
Of course, ideal candidates include those who are in overall good health. Those with medical conditions like severe obesity or heart issues may face challenges with the procedure.
That is why it is so important to consult with a highly qualified and recommended plastic surgeon beforehand. They will review your medical history, your physical status, and advise whether or not buccal removal is for you. After all, as much as you would like to shape your face, doing it safely and successfully is the priority of the day.
Let’s Look At Some Numbers
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), facial contouring procedures have increased by 15% over the past five years, with buccal fat removal seeing a significant rise. While it is hard to pinpoint exact numbers, it is estimated that around 2,000 to 3,000 cheek slimming surgeries are performed each year in the United States. The procedure is also gaining popularity in other countries, including the UK, where demand has increased by 25% in the past two years.
So, What Have We Learned About Buccal Fat Removal?
We have learned that it is a high-in-demand cosmetic surgery with a 95% satisfaction rate that sculpts your cheeks for a more contoured look. Loved by celebs, influencers, and normal citizens alike, this surgery is forever on the rise and not going anywhere soon.
If you want to know more about this procedure, book a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon that is worth their salt. Whether in London or Liverpool. Remember, in order to get the best plastic surgery, you need to invest in the best plastic surgeon.
And most importantly, enjoy the journey and the new you to be!
