Buccal Fat Removal

Many people choose to remove excess facial fat to create a slimmer, more defined look. Buccal fat removal helps contour the face by enhancing the cheekbones and jawline, resulting in a more sculpted and refined appearance.

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What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat is the natural pad of fat located between the cheekbones and jawline. The amount varies from person to person due to individual anatomy.

Buccal fat removal is a procedure that reduces this fat in those who feel they have excess fullness in the lower cheeks and would prefer a slimmer facial profile.

Who May Not Be Suitable for Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal may not be recommended for individuals who already have a naturally slim or narrow facial structure, as maintaining some facial fat is important for overall balance and volume.

It is also not typically advised as a standalone treatment for older patients, although it may be performed alongside other procedures, such as a facelift, where appropriate.

What are the Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a popular facial contouring procedure designed to create a slimmer, more sculpted appearance. By reducing excess fullness in the lower cheeks, this treatment can enhance natural facial definition and improve overall balance.

Enhanced Facial Contouring: Removes excess cheek fullness to create a more defined and sculpted facial shape.

More Defined Cheekbones: Accentuates the natural structure of the cheekbones for a sharper, more refined look.

Improved Jawline Definition: Helps highlight the jawline by reducing lower cheek volume, contributing to a slimmer profile.

Long-Lasting Results: Once removed, buccal fat does not grow back, providing permanent facial contouring results.

Increased Confidence: Many patients feel more confident with a slimmer, more balanced facial appearance that aligns with their aesthetic goals.

Surgical Time: 30 Minutes
Time off Work: 1 week
Daycase Procedure
Local Anaesthesia
Pain: 3-7 Days
Results: 12 Weeks
Aftercare: 2 Months
Exercise: 2-4 Weeks

How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost?

Buccal fat removal starts from £3,323. This all-inclusive price covers your initial consultation, the procedure itself, and all post-operative care and follow-up appointments. Final costs may vary depending on your individual anatomy and treatment plan, with full details and options discussed during your consultation.

Buccal Fat Removal: From £3,323
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Why Consider Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is an effective facial contouring procedure designed to create a slimmer, more sculpted appearance. It is particularly popular among individuals who feel they have excess fullness in the lower cheeks and would like greater definition between the cheekbones and jawline. By carefully reducing this fat, the face can appear more refined and balanced.

Key Benefits:

Enhanced Facial Definition: Creates clearer separation between the cheeks and jawline.

Slimmer Lower Face: Reduces fullness for a more contoured appearance.

Improved Facial Balance: Helps achieve better overall proportion and symmetry.

Permanent Results: Once removed, buccal fat does not return, provided there is no significant weight gain.

A consultation can help determine whether this treatment aligns with your facial structure and aesthetic goals.

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Buccal Fat Removal Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery following buccal fat removal is typically straightforward, as it is a minimally invasive facial procedure performed from inside the mouth. Most patients can return home the same day with guidance on how to care for the treatment area and support healing.

Immediately After Your Procedure

You will be discharged with appropriate pain relief and aftercare instructions. As the incisions are made inside the cheeks, it’s important to keep the mouth clean using an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce the risk of infection. Swelling and mild discomfort are common during the first few days and will gradually settle.

Dressings and Sutures

There are no external dressings required. Internal stitches used during buccal fat removal are typically dissolvable and do not need to be removed unless otherwise advised.

Activities

  • First 3–5 days: Rest is recommended, with minimal talking or chewing where possible. A soft or liquid diet is usually advised during this time.
  • 1–2 weeks: Most patients can resume normal daily activities, including work and light exercise.
  • 3–4 weeks onwards: More strenuous activities and exercise can usually be reintroduced as swelling continues to improve.

Oral Care and Healing

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during recovery. You may be advised to avoid smoking, alcohol, and very hot or spicy foods while the internal incisions heal.

Scar Care

As all incisions are made inside the mouth, there is no visible external scarring following buccal fat removal. Follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor healing and ensure you are recovering as expected. Full results become more noticeable as swelling subsides over the following weeks.

Your Buccal Fat Removal Surgeons

Leading Consultant Plastic Surgeons

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Mr Andrej Salibi
MD MRCS MSc (AesthPlastSurg) FRCS (Plast)

Mr Andrej Salibi is a fully qualified and accredited Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon.

He has previously worked in the National Health Service (NHS) as a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

He provides all aspects of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery from his practices in London and Birmingham.

Miss Maria Chasapi
MD MRCS FRCS (Plast)

Miss Maria Chasapi is a fully accredited UK trained Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon.

Following the completion of her training within the North West Deanery she was awarded the FRCS(Plast) and entered the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery.

She provides the whole spectrum of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery in London, Birmingham and Manchester.

Buccal Fat Removal Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Buccal Fat Removal

What is buccal fat removal?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reduces the naturally occurring fat pads located in the lower cheeks. These fat pads sit between the cheekbones and jawline and can create a fuller or “round” facial appearance. Removing this fat helps to contour the mid-face and enhance jawline definition for a slimmer, more sculpted look.

Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?

Buccal fat removal is typically suitable for individuals who feel their face appears overly full or “chubby” despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. It is most effective for patients seeking improved cheekbone definition or a more contoured facial profile without undergoing more invasive facial surgery.

Is buccal fat removal permanent?

Yes, the results of buccal fat removal are considered permanent because the fat pads that are removed do not grow back. However, significant weight gain in the future may still affect the overall appearance of the face, so maintaining a stable weight is recommended for long-lasting results.

How long does it take to recover from buccal fat removal?

Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days after surgery. Swelling usually subsides within 2–3 weeks, although final results may take several months to become fully visible as the facial tissues settle into their new contours.

Will buccal fat removal slim my face?

Buccal fat removal can create a slimmer facial appearance by reducing volume in the lower cheeks. This helps to emphasise the natural contours of the cheekbones and jawline, giving the face a more defined and sculpted shape.

Are there visible scars after buccal fat removal?

No visible scars are left on the outside of the face because the incisions are made inside the mouth. This allows the surgeon to remove the buccal fat pads discreetly while maintaining a natural-looking result without external marks.

When will I see results after buccal fat removal?

Initial improvements may be noticeable once swelling begins to subside after a few weeks. However, the final outcome typically becomes visible after 2–3 months when all swelling has resolved and the cheeks have settled into their new shape.

Does buccal fat removal affect ageing?

When performed on the right candidate, buccal fat removal can enhance facial contours without negatively impacting the ageing process. A qualified surgeon will assess facial structure carefully to ensure the procedure achieves a balanced, natural result that complements long-term facial harmony.

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Patient Reviews

Real, verified reviews

"

I was very concerned about my breast implant removal and the shape I would be left with. I opted for a removal and an uplift. I love the look of my breasts after the operation. They have a great shape and I feel so confident about my new look. I was also concerned about the scarring but that seems to be fading relatively quickly. An amazing surgeon he put me at ease throughout and I wish I had done this sooner. If I were to have further surgery I would go back to Andrej.

"

I am incredibly pleased with the outstanding care and expertise Maria Chasapi has brought to my surgery. From the initial consultation to the final follow-up, her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail were second to none. She took the time to understand my goals, explained every step with clarity, and made me feel completely at ease throughout the process. The results have exceeded my expectations—not just aesthetically, but in how confident and comfortable I now feel.

"

Mr Salibi listened to my concerns, he explained the procedure in great detail and answered my list of questions. His persona, his calmess, his reassurance left me feeling at ease and I was so eager to have my tummy tuck after years of hiding my body under smocks and over shirts. I am now six weeks post op and cannot stop smiling... My scar is so neat, so perfect and is healing exceptionally well. My body confidence has returned and I cannot thank My Salibi enough for working his magic.

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