Cosmetic surgery has become increasingly popular in recent years, with a wide range of procedures designed to enhance your appearance and boost self-confidence. One procedure that has gained significant attention is buccal fat removal, also known as bichectomy. This surgical technique involves the removal of excess fat pads in the cheeks to achieve a more sculpted and defined facial contour.
While the prospect of achieving a slimmer face may sound appealing, it’s essential to understand that any surgical procedure requires careful consideration of the recovery process. If you’re considering buccal fat removal, it’s natural to wonder how long the recovery period might take and what to expect during this time.
In this article, we delve into the details of buccal fat removal recovery, including the typical timeline, potential side effects, and tips to aid in your healing journey. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the recovery process, you can better prepare yourself mentally and physically for the post-operative phase of buccal fat removal.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal, or bichectomy surgery, is a procedure developed to address the problem of excess adipose tissue in the cheek area that makes one’s face appear rounder and more full even at an ideal weight. This procedure can give an individual a chin-up effect while accentuating their cheekbones and providing a slimmer and more youthful look with pronounced facial lines. Results from this type of plastic surgery are often subtle but effective, removing chubby cheeks and providing you with a sculpted facial appearance.
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How Is Buccal Fat Removed?
Buccal fat pad removal is an effective cosmetic procedure for removing excess fat from the cheeks. The buccal fat pad is a mass of fat that is encapsulated underneath the skin and muscle on either side of the face. To remove it, a small incision is made inside the back of your mouth across from your upper molars. The surgeon can then use a suture to carefully remove a portion of the fatty tissue and create a more defined facial shape. It’s important to choose an experienced cosmetic surgeon so that they achieve the desired outcome while maintaining facial balance and symmetry.
Buccal fat removal surgery usually takes about an hour to complete. It doesn’t require general anesthesia and leaves no scarring on the face or cheeks due to the fact that it’s conducted through an internal incision. Patients are left with natural-looking contours on their cheeks and improved facial harmony. Recovery time can last up to six weeks during which time you should follow post-operative care instructions such as avoiding strenuous activities and limiting physical exertion until completely healed.
How long is recovery from a facelift?
How Long Is Recovery From Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal surgery takes about 30 minutes and is virtually painless. Patients might experience minimal discomfort for a day or two. Most patients feel well enough to return to normal activities the very next day after their procedure, though it’s important to rest immediately following surgery. Many patients do not experience prominent bruising or swelling, as this procedure does not involve cutting into exterior skin. This enables them to return to their daily activities with little disruption.
It is not uncommon for patients who have undergone buccal fat pad removal to be able to go back to their jobs in the days after surgery, with only some minor pain and discomfort. Swelling may be present but should decrease quickly as the body recovers. Any bruising that occurs should be minimal and often not even visible at all. As long as you follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care, you can rest assured that you will soon be able to return to your normal routine.
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The Recovery Process For Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
Buccal fat removal is a relatively simple cosmetic procedure that can significantly improve facial contours and make a lasting impact on your appearance. While the procedure carries a range of potential risks and complications, these can be minimized by obtaining care from an experienced plastic surgeon and taking careful steps toward a successful healing process.
Straight After Surgery
Immediately after a buccal fat removal surgery, patients will be able to return home. This is because the procedure can usually be done using local anesthetic, as opposed to general anesthesia. Although this is beneficial in allowing for a quicker recovery time, it should still be noted that some pain and discomfort, such as facial swelling, after the procedure may occur as the anesthetic wears off.
To help with pain management, medications may be prescribed by your doctor along with instructions on when to take the medication and how often to apply ice packs. It’s important to follow strict dietary guidelines following your surgery. Patients are typically asked to stick to a liquid diet for the first few days or weeks after the procedure in order to avoid irritation and infection of the incisions made during buccal fat removal.
1-2 Days After Surgery
The first days after any type of surgery can be difficult. During this period, it is common for swelling and pain to reach their peak. It is important to take the medications prescribed by your doctor to manage these symptoms, as well as use ice packs if needed. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with a special mouth rinse that you should use as prescribed.
During this time after surgery, it is advisable to stick to mostly liquid foods while avoiding strenuous activity like lifting or running which may increase your heart rate. Getting up frequently and walking around the house will help keep blood circulating well. You should avoid laying down completely as this can delay healing.
1 Week After Surgery
One week after a bichectomy operation, the body may still be dealing with minimal swelling and pain. At this point, it is important to transition to a soft food diet and proceed cautiously when chewing. Avoid overly vigorous activities as well as heavy lifting that could disrupt your incisions.
Be sure to stick to over-the-counter medications for aches and pains until those start to subside. Bruising should also begin to fade during this time period. However, you may not feel comfortable returning to public life yet, and it is important not to rush anything until you feel ready. It’s best to resume light activities like desk-based work only at this stage.
2-3 Weeks After Surgery
By this time, most bruising should have disappeared and there should be no more swelling. During this period, make sure to keep hydrated and take medications as prescribed by your physician. In addition, eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and fiber content since proper nutrition can facilitate the healing process following buccal fat removal surgery.
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Buccal fat pad removal surgery is an ideal procedure for any who wants a more defined cheek appearance and facial symmetry. If you are considering the procedure, it is essential that you seek the services of a reputable plastic surgeon such as Dr. Saman.
Dr. Saman is a double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a specific clinical focus on buccal fat removal and facial rejuvenation surgery. His dedication to facial rejuvenation surgery ensures that you will be left feeling confident and satisfied with your new chiseled face.
