Buccal Fat Removal in Chicago

Buccal fat removal, or “cheek reduction surgery,” is a custom surgery for people seeking a more sculpted facial structure. This minor surgery removes excess fat from the cheek area, accentuating the cheek hollows for a more defined, elegant facial look.

About buccal fat removal

This procedure is often ideal for people who feel their cheeks are too full or the facial structure appears round and babyish. Buccal fat removal surgery should only be performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

woman smiling while leaning on window sill

What is the goal of buccal fat pad removal?

The goal of buccal fat pad removal is to carefully remove an excess of the natural fat in the cheek area, to create a more prominent cheekbone look, and treat an overly round facial structure. This treatment creates a subtle cosmetic change, enhancing the features without sacrificing the patient’s innate beauty.

Am I a candidate for buccal fat removal?

Buccal fat removal is a personalized procedure to help people who feel self-conscious about their full or chubby cheeks. Before deciding to go through with this operation, it's important to remember you're doing it for yourself and no one else; don't try conforming to someone else's expectations of what beauty should look like.

You may be an ideal candidate if you:

Are in good physical health
Are at a stable weight
Have realistic goals for what the procedure can do
Do not smoke
Dream of having a more structured facial look

This surgery is not for everyone. If you don’t have enough facial volume, buccal fat removal could leave you with a gaunt or hollow look. Our board-certified plastic surgeon will be able to determine if you are a candidate for buccal fat removal and will turn you away if this treatment is not right for you, suggesting an alternative to achieve the look you envision.

What will the procedure entail?

The procedure starts with administering an anesthetic to ensure patient comfort. Then, an incision is made on the inner portion of the cheek. The fat pad is removed, and the incision is closed with absorbable sutures. For fast healing, carefully follow all aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Moynihan.

What is the recovery for buccal fat removal?

The final outcome of your surgery won't be revealed until the swelling has disappeared, which can take between four to six weeks. As the incision is made on the inner part of your cheek, you will have absolutely no visible scars or markings post-healing process completion.

Why choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery for your buccal fat removal?

When selecting the ideal place to have your buccal fat removal performed, consider Gold Coast Plastic Surgery. Dr. Moynihan is double-board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS). He was educated at Villanova, Loyola, and the elite Rousso Facial Plastic Surgery Center, and currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Loyola University Medical Center and Rush University Medical Center.

With thousands of successful procedures completed to date at our location, our facility is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Healthcare, which adheres to (and exceeds) hospital operating room standards in the USA. For over 20 years, Dr. Moynihan has been recognized as being among Chicago's top facial plastic surgeons and is often called upon to lead surgical teams performing complex reconstructive surgeries.