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Buccal Fat Pad Removal in El Paso, Texas

Do puffy or chubby looking cheeks make it appear that you’ve never lost the youthful baby face of your childhood? In some cases, the collection of fatty tissue inside the cheeks (called the “buccal fat pad”) makes your facial profile appear rounder or even gives the impression that you weigh more than you do.

Sometimes, removing this encased area of fat inside the cheeks can instantly slim the face and create the appearance of immediate weight loss. At Southwest Plastic Surgery, Dr. Agullo, aka Dr. WorldWide, offers buccal fat pad removal as an effective alternative to liposuction.
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What Are the Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Also called a “buccal lipectomy,” a buccal fat pad removal procedure is relatively straightforward. It is a minimally invasive surgery that leaves no scars behind. Once the procedure is complete, you’ll be able to enjoy a more sculpted, leaner appearance to your face.

Given the short recovery time, this elective plastic surgery can quickly provide you with a slimmer-looking appearance. You’ll probably even have people ask how you lost the weight. If you’ve already had other procedures like liposuction or undergone significant weight loss, you’ll love how a buccal fat pad removal can complement your results.

Buccal fat pad removal is of great benefit to patients hoping to:

  • Eliminate the signs of chipmunk cheeks and unwanted facial fullness
  • Restore a youthful appearance in the face
  • Enhance facial shape, symmetry, and contour
  • Create a sculpted facial structure
  • Recover in minimal time
  • Enjoy permanent results

Am I a Candidate for Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Generally, the procedure is best for individuals (male and female) with dominant buccal fat pads. Ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal:

  • Are dissatisfied with the appearance of their round or full face
  • Have overly large amounts of fat in the cheeks
  • Desire to contour the face
  • Have realistic expectations for the accomplishments of their procedure
  • Are in good overall health and at a stable weight
  • Refrain from smoking

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What Is Discussed During My Consultation for Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

If you’re considering a fast solution to slimming up your face and eliminating those bothersome chipmunk cheeks, call Southwest Plastic Surgery now to arrange a private consultation. Dr. Agullo will meet with you to discuss your primary concerns, long-term aesthetic goals, and whether or not a buccal lipectomy can help you achieve those needs.

If you are not in El Paso, we can help you set up a one on one skype consultation and make all the arrangements necessary for you to fly in for your procedure. Be sure to follow Dr. Agullo on Snapchat @RealDrWorldWide to catch all his surgeries. Buccal fat pad removal has become a popular one!

Dr. Frank Agullo will carefully assess your natural anatomy and go over pictures of facial profiles that you feel are more attractive. Together, he will help you decide whether or not a buccal lipectomy is the most effective solution to meet your goals.

What Does My Buccal Fat Pad Removal Include?

Dr. Agullo will begin by providing local or sedation anesthesia to ensure you are as comfortable throughout the procedure. General anesthesia is not usually necessary. Dr. Agullo will proceed with incisions made within the mouth on the inner section of the cheeks.

During your procedure, Dr. Agullo will carefully remove the fat pad just inside of your cheek, which lies underneath a layer of muscle. Since the point of incision is inside your mouth, it’s completely hidden from plain sight. Dissolvable sutures are then used to close the incisions.

How Should I Prepare for My Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

For an easy and stress-free recovery for buccal fat pad removal, you should:

  • Schedule a follow-up appointment after your surgery is complete.
  • Arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home after your procedure.
  • Bring your paperwork and identification for the proper verification.
  • Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks prior to your surgery and two weeks following your surgery.
  • Refrain from eating or drinking after midnight or the day of your scheduled procedure.
  • Avoid taking medication that will thin your blood for two weeks before your procedure.

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What Can I Expect During My Recovery for Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

What Can I Expect During My Recovery for Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Once your surgery is complete, Dr. Agullo will provide the necessary instructions for a smooth and simple recovery process. Buccal fat removal is not a complex treatment, and a minimal amount of bruising and swelling will occur during your short recovery time. You can resume normal, non-strenuous activity immediately. A soft diet is recommended for five days. Generally, full recovery takes about three weeks.

Is Buccal Fat Pad Removal Painful?

Is Buccal Fat Pad Removal Painful?

Anesthesia is administered to ensure your entire procedure for buccal fat pad removal is pain-free. You may feel soreness or mild discomfort for the first two weeks of your recovery process, during which Dr. Agullo will provide the appropriate pain medication.

Will Buccal Fat Pad Removal Leave Scars?

Will Buccal Fat Pad Removal Leave Scars?

Buccal fat pad removal will not leave visible scars because the incisions are made inside the mouth.

When Will I See My Buccal Fat Pad Removal Results?

When Will I See My Buccal Fat Pad Removal Results?

Results from your buccal fat pad removal will likely become noticeable one week after your initial day of treatment and continue to become more pronounced within the following weeks. You can expect enhanced and refined cheeks once your body has fully healed and adjusted.

At Agullo Plastic Surgery, tailored care begins with a full consultation to discuss the goals and options available.

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What Does Buccal Fat Pad Removal Cost?

Pricing varies depending on the extent of the treatment or surgery. You can see a list of the approximate prices of each procedure on our current fee schedule. Generally speaking, cosmetic plastic surgery is considered an “elective” and is not covered by most insurance plans. The prices listed on our fee schedule represent the minimum cost of the procedures, including anesthesia and surgical facility fees, medical tests, garments, and recovery products. The cost of prescription medications, however, is not included. The exact price of each procedure can only be determined after a thorough consultation. All fees must be paid in full prior to the scheduled treatment.

Before & After

Buccal Fat Pad Before and After Results Buccal Fat Pad Before and After Results - Profile

* Results may vary

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What Are Some Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Why should I seek a specialist when getting buccal fat pad removal?

It is essential that you seek the care of a highly-skilled specialist when considering treatment for “chubby” cheeks. As we age, the roundness of our faces will slightly decrease. If your plastic surgeon is not experienced, your procedure could leave your face looking gaunt as you get older.

Does insurance cover buccal fat pad removal?

Typically, insurance companies will not cover cosmetic procedures; however, patients should contact their insurance company to learn more about their facial plastic surgery policy.

How can men benefit from buccal fat pad removal?

Buccal fat pad removal can be an excellent option for men who wish to have a slimmer and more defined face. Fat in the cheeks can age a man’s appearance. By eliminating fullness and roundness to the lower portion of the face, men can restore a youthful appearance while maintaining their masculine features.

Will I have to change my diet after buccal fat pad removal?

Buccal fat pad removal does not require an extensive amount of recovery. However, maintaining a diet that is not going to irritate or cut the incisions is important. Dr. Agullo will help you formulate a soft diet plan that will transition into a regular food diet within five days of your recovery period.

What are the potential complications associated with buccal fat pad removal?

Buccal fat pad removal is an extremely safe and simple procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Agullo. However, some form of surgical risk comes with all procedures. Buccal fat pad removal may cause side effects that are likely to resolve on their own. For example, minimal to mild soreness can be easily mitigated with over-the-counter pain medication. Other side effects and risks near the injection site include:

  • Food or liquid becoming caught in the sutures within the mouth
  • Inflammation or discomfort caused by irritation of the incision site
  • Minor bleeding
  • Temporary changes in the mouth sensation
  • Temporary inability to eat or chew properly
Should I combine buccal fat pad removal with other procedures?

Most patients looking for lower face definition combine buccal fat removal with liposuction and FaceTite® of the lower face and neck. BOTOX® Cosmetic to the massetters can also help slim down the posterior cheek area. Finally, a chin implant may be recommended for some patients.

Combining your buccal fat pad removal with a facelift can provide a comprehensive approach to an aging face. Other facial plastic surgeries like rhinoplasty can enhance the balance and overall beauty of the face. Additionally, patients may want to augment their surgical results with non-surgical treatments that enhance the features of their face more precisely.

When should I get FaceTite® with buccal fat pad removal?

FaceTite® is an excellent treatment to combine with buccal fat pad removal. This is because FaceTite® can reduce bulky fat in the lower face, corners of the face, and underneath the neck and jawline. FaceTite® works by using radiofrequency technology to melt fat and tighten the skin around these problem areas in the face.

Interested in Buccal Fat Pad Removal in El Paso?

If you want to learn more about Dr. Agullo’s buccal fat pad removal, contact his office by calling (915) 590-7900. Dr. Agullo offers buccal fat pad removal for patients in El Paso, Texas, and the greater El Paso area.

Buccal fat pad removal is a common procedure for Dr. Agullo. Catch full transformations live on Snapchat or Instagram @RealDrWorldWide on any given day! #StayBeautiful

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