Buccal fat removal—you’ve probably heard the buzz. Maybe you’ve seen TikToks or Instagram posts about it, or perhaps your favorite celeb suddenly has those impossibly sculpted cheekbones that weren’t quite so defined before. But what exactly is buccal fat removal, and why is everyone talking about it? Let’s break it down.
First Things First: What Is Buccal Fat?
Buccal (pronounced “buckle”) fat refers to the fat pads in your cheeks. Specifically, these pads are located between your cheekbones and jawline to cushion the muscle movement in your face while speaking, chewing, and smiling. They’re part of what gives your face its natural fullness and youthful roundness.
Some people, however, prefer a slimmer face silhouette and more sculpted cheeks. Enter buccal fat removal, a cosmetic procedure designed to slim down the cheek area by removing some of that fat.
The result? A more defined look with sharper cheekbones and a slimmer face.
At L&P Aesthetics, our double board-certified facial plastic surgeons meticulously evaluate each candidate’s facial structure, age, and overall health to ensure the procedure is appropriate and the best solution to meet your aesthetic goals.
Why Are People Getting Buccal Fat Removal?
One of the main reasons buccal fat removal has gained so much popularity is its ability to create a more sculpted and defined look with high cheekbones. This procedure offers a permanent solution for those who feel makeup or non-surgical treatments, like filler, just aren’t cutting it.
Another reason? Celebrities. While many stars are tight-lipped about whether they’ve had work done, some, like Chrissy Teigen, have openly admitted to undergoing buccal fat removal. When A-listers flaunt their new sculpted looks, it’s no surprise that the trend catches on.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Buccal fat removal isn’t for everyone. It’s ideal for people with naturally fuller cheeks who want a slimmer, more contoured appearance. However, it’s not recommended for individuals with very thin faces or those who are older, as removing too much fat can have an adverse effect on your face’s overall balance. It’s also worth noting that genetics play a big role in how much buccal fat you have. If you’re unsure whether the procedure is right for you, a consultation with Drs. Lieberman, Parikh, or Curti will provide you with all the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision.
Buccal Fat Removal: The Bigger Picture
While buccal fat removal can give you that sleek, sculpted look, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Beauty standards change, and what’s trendy now might not be forever. Plus, your face naturally changes as you age, and having less fat in your cheeks could contribute to a more aged appearance down the road.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo buccal fat removal should be about what makes you feel confident and happy in your skin—not about chasing trends or fitting into a certain mold. If fuller cheeks are part of what makes you uniquely you, that’s something to celebrate too!
If you would like to learn more about buccal fat removal or other cosmetic options for enhancing your natural beauty, give us a call to set up a consultation with one of our expert nonsurgical or surgical providers: 650-327-3232!
