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Refine Your Facial Contours

Excess buccal fat can cause a round or “chubby” appearance in the lower cheeks, even in individuals with a lean physique. For many, this can lead to self-consciousness, especially regarding facial definition and symmetry. At Fulcrum Aesthetics, we understand that the desire for a more sculpted look isn’t about vanity—it’s about feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. Led by Dr. David Hill and nurse practitioner Brittony Croasdell, we specialize in buccal fat removal, providing expert care and precision that ensures a natural, balanced result. Combining their expertise with a “Beauty in Balance” approach, they help patients achieve refined contours that enhance their unique facial architecture.

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What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure designed to reduce excess fat in the lower cheeks, known as the buccal fat pads. Removing or reducing this fat helps create a more defined and sculpted appearance, particularly in the mid to lower face. This procedure suits individuals seeking a slimmer, more contoured facial structure. The process involves making a small incision inside the mouth, through which the buccal fat pads are carefully removed, minimizing visible scarring and promoting a smooth recovery.

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The Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal

If you feel that your face appears rounder or fuller than you’d like despite being at a healthy weight, you’re not alone. Many individuals struggle with the appearance of excess fat in the lower cheeks, which can create an unbalanced or “chubby” look. Buccal fat removal can address these concerns by sculpting the face and enhancing your natural bone structure. The benefits of this procedure include the following:

  • Enhanced Facial Definition: The main benefit of buccal fat removal is creating a slimmer and more sculpted appearance in the lower face, emphasizing your natural bone structure.
  • Improved Facial Balance: The procedure helps harmonize your facial features, creating better symmetry between the cheeks and jawline.
  • Minimally Invasive: The small incisions inside the mouth lead to minimal scarring and a discreet healing process.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not typically return, providing long-term facial contouring benefits.
  • Boosted Self-Confidence: Achieving a more defined face can enhance your self-esteem, helping you feel more comfortable in photos and social situations.
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Before & After

Buccal Fat Removal

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Is Buccal Fat Removal Right for Me?

Buccal fat removal is ideal for individuals who feel that their face appears fuller or rounder than they would prefer, often leading to dissatisfaction with their facial contours. If you’re struggling with the appearance of “chubby” cheeks or feel that your facial features lack definition, this procedure may be a great solution. Ideal candidates are typically healthy, maintain a stable weight, and seek a more defined, sculpted look.

It’s important to note that this procedure is best suited for those with naturally fuller cheeks, as removing too much fat can lead to an overly hollow appearance. At Fulcrum Aesthetics, we offer personalized consultations to determine if buccal fat removal is right for you. During your consultation, we will assess your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What to Expect: The Buccal Fat Removal Process

Buccal fat removal is a relatively straightforward procedure at Fulcrum Aesthetics in Chicago, typically performed under local anesthesia or light sedation. Here’s what you can expect:

Consultation

The process begins with a detailed consultation, where our experts assess your facial anatomy and discuss your aesthetic goals. This assessment ensures buccal fat removal is the appropriate solution for your desired outcome.

Procedure

On the day of the procedure, a small incision is made inside the mouth, specifically in the inner cheek area. This incision allows access to the buccal fat pads, which are carefully removed or reduced. Since the incisions are made inside the mouth, no visible scars exist. The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the case.

Post-Procedure

Once the fat pads are removed and the desired contours are achieved, the incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches. You’ll be monitored briefly to ensure your comfort before heading home the same day.

By precisely targeting the buccal fat pads, the procedure results in a more sculpted, contoured lower face, highlighting your natural bone structure.

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Buccal Fat Removal Recovery & Results

Recovery from buccal fat removal is generally smooth, with minimal downtime. Most patients experience swelling and mild discomfort in the first few days, but this subsides quickly. You may be advised to stick to a soft diet for a short period to avoid irritating the incisions inside your mouth. Over-the-counter pain medications are typically sufficient to manage any discomfort. You can expect to return to regular activities within a few days, although strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week.

The initial swelling will begin to subside after the first week. Still, the full results of the procedure—enhanced facial definition and a slimmer lower face—will continue to develop over the next few months as the remaining swelling completely resolves.

Follow-up appointments at Fulcrum Aesthetics will ensure that your recovery is progressing well and that you are satisfied with your results.

Why Choose Fulcrum Aesthetics?

At Fulcrum Aesthetics, we understand that the decision to refine your facial contours can come with a mix of emotions, from excitement to uncertainty. Our team, led by Dr. David Hill and nurse practitioner Brittony Croasdell, is committed to providing expert, compassionate care throughout your journey. Our “Beauty in Balance” approach ensures that your buccal fat removal results in a natural, harmonious look, preserving your unique facial features while enhancing definition. With our expertise in complication management and our dedication to patient education, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction every step of the way. Our luxurious, calming environment is designed to put you at ease, making your experience as comfortable as possible. Ready to take the next step toward a more defined, confident you? Schedule your consultation with Fulcrum Aesthetics today and discover the difference our expert team can make.

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Buccal Fat Removal FAQs

Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?

How much does buccal fat removal hurt?

Will there be visible scars after buccal fat removal?

How long does buccal fat removal take?

What is recovery like?

When will I see the results from buccal fat removal?

Are the results of buccal fat removal permanent?

Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?

Good candidates are typically individuals with fuller cheeks who want to achieve a more sculpted facial appearance. You should be in good health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations for the results. A consultation with Fulcrum Aesthetics can determine if you’re an ideal candidate.

How much does buccal fat removal hurt?

Buccal fat removal is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure with mild discomfort. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation so that you won’t feel pain during the surgery. Post-procedure discomfort is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Will there be visible scars after buccal fat removal?

No, the incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible external scars.

How long does buccal fat removal take?

The procedure typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

What is recovery like?

Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for the first few days. You may need to temporarily stick to a soft diet to avoid irritating the internal incisions. The full results become more apparent as swelling subsides over a few months.

When will I see the results from buccal fat removal?

While some results are noticeable as the swelling reduces, the full outcome will be visible over a few months as the face continues to heal and the swelling completely subsides.

Are the results of buccal fat removal permanent?

Yes, once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not typically return, providing long-lasting results.

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