A Slimmer, More Sculpted Face — One of the Most Talked-About Procedures in Hollywood

Buccal fat removal targets the fat pads deep within the cheeks that can give the face a rounder, fuller appearance, even after diet and exercise have reduced fat elsewhere on the body.

By carefully removing a portion of this fat, Dr. Javaheri can create a more sculpted, triangular facial shape with enhanced cheekbone and jawline definition. The results are considered long-lasting because the removed fat does not typically regenerate.

The procedure gained widespread public attention after model and television personality Chrissy Teigen shared on social media that she had undergone buccal fat removal. Her openness helped bring a procedure that had been popular among some Hollywood patients for years into the mainstream conversation.

However, buccal fat removal has been performed by plastic surgeons for decades.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

The buccal fat pads are located deep within the cheeks, between the cheekbones and jawline. In some people, particularly those with naturally rounder faces, these fat pads contribute to a fuller or youthful “baby face” appearance that can persist well into adulthood regardless of overall body weight.

During buccal fat removal, Dr. Javaheri makes a small incision inside the mouth and carefully removes a measured portion of the buccal fat pad.

The goal is not to remove the entire fat pad. A conservative approach helps avoid an overly hollow or aged appearance later in life.

Who Is the Right Candidate?

Buccal fat removal may be a good option for patients who:

  • Have a naturally round or full face, even at a healthy body weight
  • Want greater definition around the cheekbones
  • Desire a slimmer, more triangular facial contour
  • Are looking for a long-lasting alternative to temporary facial contouring with makeup or fillers
  • Have realistic expectations and are not seeking dramatic facial hollowing

Who May Not Be a Good Candidate?

Buccal fat removal is generally not recommended for patients who already have a naturally thin or narrow face.

Removing additional facial fat in these patients may accentuate hollowness and could contribute to a more aged appearance as natural facial volume decreases with age.

During your consultation, Dr. Javaheri will evaluate your facial structure, volume, and fat distribution to determine whether buccal fat removal or another facial contouring approach is best suited to your goals.

Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal

Potential benefits of buccal fat removal include:

  • Quick procedure: The procedure is often completed in under an hour.
  • Local anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically not required in many cases.
  • No visible external scarring: The incisions are made inside the mouth.
  • Long-lasting results: The portion of buccal fat that is removed does not typically return.
  • Enhanced facial harmony: Carefully reducing cheek volume can create greater definition around the cheekbones and lower face.
  • Facial contouring: Buccal fat removal may complement other facial contouring or jawline procedures when performed together.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries potential risks. These should be discussed thoroughly with Dr. Javaheri during your consultation.

Possible risks and considerations include:

  • Temporary swelling and bruising
  • Difficulty fully opening the mouth during the initial recovery period
  • Asymmetry between the cheeks
  • Temporary numbness or altered sensation near the incision sites
  • Infection, as with any intraoral surgical procedure
  • Over-removal of fat, which may contribute to a gaunt or aged appearance over time

Because facial volume naturally changes with age, a conservative and experienced surgical approach is especially important when performing buccal fat removal.

Recovery After Buccal Fat Removal

Recovery varies from patient to patient, but the typical healing process may include:

First Few Days

Swelling is usually most noticeable during the first 48–72 hours. A soft-food or liquid diet may be recommended during this initial period to minimize irritation around the intraoral incisions.

First Week

Most of the initial swelling and bruising begins to improve. If sutures are used, they generally dissolve on their own.

2–4 Weeks

Residual swelling continues to decrease, allowing the newly contoured shape of the cheeks to become more apparent.

Around 3 Months

Final results are typically easier to appreciate once the majority of swelling has completely resolved.

Schedule Your Consultation

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for buccal fat removal. The right approach depends on your facial anatomy, existing facial volume, age, and aesthetic goals.

If you’re interested in learning whether buccal fat removal is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Javaheri to discuss your goals and determine the best approach for achieving a naturally sculpted facial appearance.