The procedure of removing fat from the cheeks to further sharpen facial contours is called a buccal fat removal. Recently, the preference for sharper contours over round facial features has increased the demand for buccal fat removal procedures. Bichectomy is a method particularly favored by Hollywood stars and celebrities. Although the round face shape and cheeks known as apple cheeks are popular, especially in children until puberty, this appearance becomes less attractive after puberty. Therefore, bichectomy procedures are a treatment that restores the self-confidence and morale of patients who undergo this operation.
There are fat pads called bichat bags inside the cheeks on both sides of the face. In people known to have apple cheeks, these fat pads are very developed, giving the face a round shape. Even in thin people, apple cheeks can appear in some cases. This is because the volume of the bichat bags is not proportional to the body weight. A buccal fat pad removal procedure is performed to eliminate this problem. With a buccal fat pad removal procedure, it is possible to achieve a visible and noticeable change.
The buccal fat pad removal procedure is performed in an operating room under local anesthesia. The procedure is performed by making a one-centimeter incision inside the mouth. The buccal fat pads are removed through this incision. Bichectomy operations last between one hour and 1.5 hours on average. Since the operation is performed inside the mouth, there are no visible scars or deformities on the outside. The patient is discharged on the same day after the operation. After the operation, patients should pay attention to oral hygiene for the first week, gargle regularly, and brush their teeth.
Patients who undergo the operation must be careful when eating during the recovery period. They should avoid hard chewing movements and are advised to consume soft foods. People who are employed must return to work a few days after the operation. The buccal fat removal operation is generally permanent, and fat does not accumulate in the cheeks again after the operation.