Buccal Fat Removal
If you have always felt that your cheeks appear fuller or rounder than you would like, regardless of your weight or fitness level, you are not alone. Many adults carry excess volume in the lower face due to naturally prominent buccal fat pads, a structural characteristic that is largely determined by genetics. Buccal fat removal, also known as buccal lipectomy or bichectomy, is a precise surgical procedure that removes these fat pads to reveal a slimmer, more sculpted facial profile.
At Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates, our board-certified plastic surgeons bring decades of combined experience in facial contouring to patients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and the greater Southern Nevada region. Whether you are bothered by persistent cheek fullness, a rounded jawline, or a face that appears younger than you feel, buccal fat removal may offer the long-lasting definition you have been looking for.
- What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
- Understanding the Buccal Fat Pad: Anatomy and Causes
- Am I a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
- Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
- The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure: What to Expect
- Recovery After Buccal Fat Removal
- Buccal Fat Removal Results
- Facial Slimming Options: Buccal Fat Removal and Beyond
- How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost in Las Vegas?
- Why Choose Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates
- Risks and Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that targets the buccal fat pads, two discrete deposits of fat located deep within the lower cheeks, between the cheekbones and the jaw. Unlike subcutaneous fat that responds to diet and exercise, buccal fat pads are structural in nature. Their size is primarily determined by genetics, which is why some individuals maintain full, rounded cheeks even at a healthy body weight.
During the procedure, a small incision is made inside the mouth, along the inner cheek wall. Through this intraoral incision, the surgeon carefully identifies and removes the buccal fat pad. Because the incision is placed entirely inside the mouth, there are no external scars. The result is a more defined lower face, with enhanced cheekbone prominence and a slimmer overall facial contour.1
The procedure is also sometimes referred to as:
- Buccal lipectomy
- Bichectomy
- Cheek reduction surgery
- Cheek contouring surgery
Understanding the Buccal Fat Pad: Anatomy and Causes
The buccal fat pad is a naturally occurring structure found in the cheek hollow, nestled between the buccinator muscle and several surrounding facial muscles. It is distinct from the fat found just beneath the skin and cannot be reduced through liposuction or non-surgical treatments.
Prominent buccal fat pads are most commonly the result of:
- Genetics: The size and position of buccal fat pads are largely inherited. If your parents or siblings have full cheeks, you likely do too.
- Facial structure: Individuals with a naturally round or wide facial shape may have more prominent buccal fat pads.
- Age: Buccal fat pads tend to diminish naturally with age. This is an important consideration during candidacy evaluation, as patients who are very young may see their cheeks slim on their own over time.
It is worth noting that buccal fat is not the same as the fat that accumulates with weight gain. Even patients who are lean and physically fit can have prominent buccal fat pads, making surgical removal the only effective long-term solution.2
Am I a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. A thorough consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons is the best way to determine whether this treatment is right for you. During your consultation, our surgeons perform a comprehensive facial analysis using standardized photography and facial proportion assessment to ensure the recommended approach is tailored to your unique anatomy.
In general, ideal candidates tend to share the following characteristics:
- Adults who are bothered by persistent cheek fullness or a rounded lower face
- Individuals at a stable, healthy body weight
- Non-smokers, or those willing to quit smoking before and after surgery
- Patients in good overall health with no uncontrolled medical conditions
- Those with realistic expectations about the outcome
- Individuals whose facial structure is appropriate for fat removal (not all face shapes benefit equally)3
An important note on age and facial aging: Because buccal fat naturally decreases with age, very young patients in their late teens or early twenties may be advised to wait. Removing too much buccal fat in a young patient can lead to an overly gaunt or hollow appearance later in life as natural facial volume continues to diminish. Our surgeons take a conservative, individualized approach to ensure results that look natural both now and in the years ahead.
Patients who may not be ideal candidates include those with a naturally thin or narrow face, those with significant facial asymmetry that requires a different approach, or those who are not yet at a stable weight.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
Patients who undergo buccal fat removal at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates frequently report a meaningful improvement in facial confidence and overall satisfaction with their appearance. Key benefits of the procedure include:
- Slimmer, more sculpted lower face: Reducing the buccal fat pads creates a more defined transition between the cheeks and the jaw.
- Enhanced cheekbone definition: Removing excess lower cheek volume naturally draws attention upward, making the cheekbones appear more prominent.
- Improved jawline contour: A slimmer lower face creates a more angular, defined jawline.
- Permanent results: Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not grow back. Results are long-lasting.
- No visible scarring: Because all incisions are made inside the mouth, there are no external scars.
- Relatively quick procedure: The surgery typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation.
- Minimal downtime: Most patients return to work and light daily activities within a few days to one week.
The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure: What to Expect
Before Surgery
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at our Las Vegas or Henderson office. During this appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, review your medical history, and determine whether buccal fat removal is the right approach for you. Standardized photographs will be taken, and a personalized surgical plan will be developed.
You will receive detailed pre-operative instructions, which typically include:
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements for a specified period before surgery
- Refraining from eating or drinking after midnight the night before surgery if sedation is used
- Arranging for a responsible adult to drive you home after the procedure
- Stopping smoking at least several weeks before surgery
The Day of Surgery
Buccal fat removal is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will go home the same day. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with or without oral sedation, though general anesthesia may be used in some cases, particularly when combined with other procedures.
The surgical steps include:
- The inner cheek is cleansed and anesthetized.
- A small incision, approximately 1 centimeter in length, is made inside the mouth along the inner cheek wall.
- The surgeon carefully identifies the buccal fat pad and gently removes the appropriate amount of tissue.
- The incision is closed with a dissolvable suture.
- The process is repeated on the opposite side.
The entire procedure typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Because the incisions are intraoral, there are no external sutures to remove and no visible scarring.
Procedure at a Glance
Detail | Information |
Procedure Time | 30 to 60 minutes |
Anesthesia | Local anesthesia with or without sedation |
Setting | Outpatient (same-day) |
Recovery | Return to work in a few days to one week |
Final Results | 3 to 6 months |
Scarring | None (intraoral incisions) |
Results | Permanent |
Recovery After Buccal Fat Removal
Recovery from buccal fat removal is generally straightforward and well-tolerated. Most patients experience mild to moderate swelling and some discomfort in the first few days following surgery, which can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.
What to expect during recovery:
- Days 1 to 3: Swelling and mild discomfort are most pronounced. A liquid or soft-food diet is recommended to minimize stress on the incision sites.
- Days 3 to 7: Swelling begins to subside. Most patients feel comfortable returning to desk work and light daily activities.
- Weeks 2 to 4: The majority of visible swelling resolves. Patients may resume light exercise.
- Months 3 to 6: Final results become fully visible as residual swelling completely resolves and the tissues settle into their new contour.
Recovery guidelines typically include:
- Following a soft or liquid diet for the first several days
- Rinsing the mouth with an antiseptic oral rinse after meals to keep incision sites clean
- Avoiding strenuous physical activity for at least two to three weeks
- Refraining from smoking throughout the recovery period
- Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments
Buccal Fat Removal Results
The results of buccal fat removal are permanent. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not regenerate. Patients can expect a slimmer, more defined lower face with enhanced cheekbone prominence and a more sculpted jawline.
It is important to understand that the full results of buccal fat removal are not immediately visible. Swelling in the first few weeks can temporarily obscure the outcome. Most patients begin to appreciate their results within two to four weeks, with final results fully apparent at three to six months post-surgery.
Results are best maintained by:
- Attending regular follow-up visits with your surgeon
- Maintaining a stable, healthy body weight
- Following a healthy lifestyle
- Protecting the skin from sun damage
Facial Slimming Options: Buccal Fat Removal and Beyond
Buccal fat removal is one of several facial slimming and contouring options available at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates. Depending on your anatomy and goals, your surgeon may recommend combining buccal fat removal with one or more complementary procedures for a more comprehensive result.
BOTOX® for Masseter Reduction
For patients whose facial width is partly due to enlarged masseter muscles, the chewing muscles at the sides of the jaw, BOTOX injections can be used to slim the lower face by relaxing and gradually reducing the size of these muscles. BOTOX masseter reduction is a non-surgical option that can be performed alone or in combination with buccal fat removal for a more complete V-line facial slimming effect.
Submentoplasty
Submentoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that addresses excess fat and loose skin beneath the chin and along the jawline. When combined with buccal fat removal, it can create a more harmonious, defined lower facial contour.
Facelift
For patients who are also concerned about facial laxity or skin looseness, buccal fat removal can be performed in conjunction with a facelift for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation outcome.
Chin Augmentation
Adding volume or projection to the chin through implants or fat transfer can complement the slimming effect of buccal fat removal, creating a more balanced and proportionate facial profile.
Your surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy holistically and recommend the combination of procedures most likely to achieve your desired outcome.
How Much Does Buccal Fat Removal Cost in Las Vegas?
The cost of buccal fat removal in Las Vegas and Henderson varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, whether it is combined with other treatments, the surgical facility, and anesthesia fees.
Our team is happy to discuss financing options to help make your procedure accessible. A detailed, personalized cost estimate will be provided at your consultation.
Why Choose Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates
At Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates, patients in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV have access to a team of board-certified plastic surgeons whose credentials, training, and commitment to individualized care set them apart in the Southern Nevada region. Our practice has served the Las Vegas and Henderson communities for decades, building a reputation for clinical excellence, compassionate patient care, and consistently natural-looking outcomes.
Awards and Recognition
- Castle Connolly Top Doctor (Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn)
- Best of Las Vegas 2022: Gold, Rhinoplasty
- Best of Las Vegas 2022: Silver, Cosmetic Surgery
- As Seen On: “The Doctors” (national television, Dr. Hankins)
Dr. W. Tracy Hankins, MD, FACS
Dr. W. Tracy Hankins is a board-certified plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a Fellow of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). He serves as an Associate Clinical Professor at Touro University Nevada, bringing an academic depth to his surgical practice that few plastic surgeons in Las Vegas can match. Dr. Hankins has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and has appeared on the nationally broadcast television program “The Doctors.” He has also been honored with Best of Las Vegas awards, including Gold for Rhinoplasty and Silver for Cosmetic Surgery in 2022. His approach to facial contouring is rooted in a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and a commitment to results that look natural and proportionate.
Credentials and Affiliations:
- Board-Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- Fellow, American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- Associate Clinical Professor, Touro University Nevada
- Castle Connolly Top Doctor
- Best of Las Vegas 2022: Gold, Rhinoplasty; Silver, Cosmetic Surgery
- Featured on “The Doctors” (national television)
Dr. Samuel M. Sohn, MD
Dr. Samuel M. Sohn is a board-certified plastic surgeon who completed a prestigious Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, one of the most respected aesthetic surgery training programs in the country. He earned his medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. Dr. Sohn is one of the few fellowship-trained aesthetic plastic surgeons practicing in the Las Vegas and Henderson area, bringing a level of specialized training in facial aesthetics that is rare in the region.
Credentials and Affiliations:
- Board-Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Medical Degree, Virginia Commonwealth University
- Castle Connolly Top Doctor
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries potential risks and complications. Our surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks, and a thorough pre-operative evaluation is conducted for every patient. Potential risks include:
- Asymmetry between the two sides of the face
- Infection at the incision site
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Injury to nearby nerves (rare)
- Over-removal of fat, leading to a hollow or gaunt appearance
- Unfavorable healing at the incision site (rare, as incisions are intraoral)
- Reaction to anesthesia4
Choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon with specific experience in facial contouring procedures is the single most important factor in minimizing risk and achieving a satisfying outcome. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss all potential risks in detail and answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buccal Fat Removal
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Will buccal fat removal make my face look hollow or gaunt?
When performed conservatively and on an appropriately selected patient, buccal fat removal should not result in a hollow or gaunt appearance. Our surgeons take a measured approach, removing only the amount of fat necessary to achieve a natural-looking improvement. The aging consideration is always factored into the surgical plan, particularly for younger patients.
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Are the results of buccal fat removal permanent?
Yes. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not regenerate. The results are permanent, though natural facial aging will continue over time. Maintaining a stable body weight helps preserve the outcome.
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Will I have visible scars after buccal fat removal?
No. All incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no external scars. The small intraoral incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and heal without visible marks.
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How long does it take to see the final results?
Most patients begin to see improvement within two to four weeks as swelling subsides. Full, final results are typically visible at three to six months post-surgery.
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Are there any risks or complications I should know about?
As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and over-removal of fat. These risks are minimized by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in facial contouring procedures. Our surgeons will discuss all risks in detail during your consultation.
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Will my face look significantly different after buccal fat removal?
The degree of change depends on your starting anatomy and the amount of fat removed. Most patients notice a meaningful but natural-looking improvement, with a slimmer lower face and more defined cheekbones. The goal is enhancement, not a dramatic transformation.
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How much does buccal fat removal cost in Las Vegas?
The total cost of buccal fat removal varies based on the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia, facility fees, and whether additional procedures are performed at the same time. A personalized cost estimate will be provided during your consultation at our Las Vegas or Henderson office.
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Where can I find buccal fat removal near me?
Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates serves patients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, North Las Vegas, and the greater Southern Nevada area. Our board-certified plastic surgeons offer personalized consultations to help you determine whether buccal fat removal is the right choice for your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Contact Us
Are you ready to explore buccal fat removal near you in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV? The board-certified plastic surgeons at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates are here to help you achieve a slimmer, more defined facial contour with personalized care and surgical precision.
We proudly serve patients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, North Las Vegas, and the surrounding Southern Nevada communities. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward the facial profile you have always envisioned.
1 ASPS. What is buccal fat removal? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/buccal-fat-removal. Accessed March 5, 2026.
2 Davis B, Serra M. Buccal Fat Pad Reduction. [Updated 2022 Nov 21]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576413/. Accessed March 5, 2026.
3 ASPS. Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/buccal-fat-removal/candidates. Accessed March 5, 2026.
4 ASPS. What are the risks of buccal fat removal? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/buccal-fat-removal/safety. Accessed March 5, 2026.
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This content has either been authored or reviewed and approved by the doctors at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates.