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What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Overly rounded cheeks are a common aesthetic concern for many people who would prefer a more streamlined facial contour. To improve the appearance of extra fullness in the face, Dr. Parakh performs buccal fat removal at her practice in Englewood, NJ. This procedure achieves improved definition in the cheekbones and a more refined facial look overall.

What Are Buccal Fat Pads?

Buccal fat pads are located under the cheekbones on both sides of the mouth. While we all have buccal fat pads, they are larger in some individuals than others — and because of genetics, it can be extremely difficult to reduce their size non-surgically. This is why so many people turn to the buccal fat removal procedure. Dr. Parakh is pleased to offer this procedure to her patients in New Jersey and beyond to help them achieve their aesthetic facial goals.

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Buccal Fat Removal Procedure Details

Dr. Parakh performs buccal fat removal under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The procedure typically takes about one hour to complete.

Once your mouth is numb, Dr. Parakh will create incisions inside the mouth in the cheek area. She will separate the buccal fat pad from the connecting muscle, and from there, she will either reduce the fat pad or remove it completely. 

Once this part is complete, she will close the incision and then complete the same process on the other side of the mouth. 

What to Expect After Buccal Fat Removal

Following buccal fat removal in New Jersey, the majority of buccal fat removal patients require approximately one week of recovery time. During recuperation, you will need to follow a liquid diet for the first 24 hours, progressing to a soft diet after that.

You will need to stay away from crunchy or sharp food (like chips) for a week. Chewing may be uncomfortable for 1-2 weeks.

Dr. Parakh will either prescribe or recommend an antibacterial mouthwash to decrease the risk of infection. Be sure to use it as often as she instructs. 

You can expect tenderness and swelling for up to two weeks. Sleeping with your head elevated will help diminish swelling. Be sure to carefully follow all Dr. Parakh’s home care guidelines.

Results

There will be some initial swelling after buccal fat removal, which may result in the cheeks appearing bigger. Rest assured that the swelling will subside, and the final result will be elegant, balanced, and natural-looking.

Early results can be seen at 1-2 weeks, with final results at three to six months.

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Who Makes the Best Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal? 

If you’re considering undergoing the buccal fat removal procedure, you may be a great candidate, depending on several factors Those who make the best patients for this procedure…

  • Are unhappy with the fullness of their cheeks and desire improved definition
  • Are at the appropriate age for the procedure
  • Are at a stable, healthy weight
  • Are non-smokers in overall good health
  • Do not have progressive hemifacial atrophy (Parry-Romberg syndrome)
A photo of pink & white flowers in Dr. Parakh's office.
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Why Choose Dr. Parakh?

Dr. Shwetambara Parakh provides an intimate boutique environment where patients receive personalized attention and exquisite care. Individualized treatment plans are at the core of her practice. Dr. Parakh is double board-certified in plastic and general surgery and has been awarded a five-star distinction by RealSelf. She spends more time with her patients than many other surgeons, providing empathetic and compassionate listening. She takes the extra time to thoroughly educate you, knowing the more empowered you are, the more secure you will feel about your procedure decisions. Dr. Parakh underwent her general surgical training at New York Presbyterian Queens Hospital before being accepted at the highly competitive plastic surgery training program at Cornell and Columbia Universities at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

She underwent additional elite training at the prestigious Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Hospital for Special Surgery. This extensive educational background has allowed Dr. Parakh to consistently exceed patient expectations for safety and excellence.

If you’re in Englewood, NJ, or anywhere in the greater New York metro area and you’re ready to trust your appearance to a team that truly cares, contact us today to set up your consultation and discover how buccal fat removal can help achieve your aesthetic vision.

Buccal Fat Removal FAQs:

What are the risks?

Does buccal fat removal make you age faster?

What are the risks?

Risks may include infection, asymmetry, bleeding, seroma, hematoma, injury to the salivary duct or facial nerves, temporary numbness, prolonged swelling, and others. Dr. Parakh takes care to minimize these risks by using a conservative and precision-oriented approach.

Does buccal fat removal make you age faster?

Some patients are concerned that removing facial fat may make them look older. In reality, buccal fat is superficial and its removal does not affect facial aging in any way. Thanks to Dr. Parakh’s innovative approach, patients will enjoy a youthful appearance that is long-lasting and sustainable.

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