Cheek Aesthetics (Bichectomy)

Who is it for?

• Individuals with a fuller or rounder face seeking a more sculpted appearance.
• Patients with prominent buccal fat pads that contribute to a 'chubby' facial contour.
• Those in good health, with realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
• Adults of any age, although younger patients typically have better skin elasticity, which may contribute to more pronounced results.

Recovery Period

• The procedure itself usually takes about one hour.
• Recovery time varies by individual but generally ranges from a few days to two weeks for most of the swelling to subside.
• Complete healing and final results may take up to three months.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

• Swelling and bruising in the cheek area.
• Temporary numbness or altered sensation due to nerve damage.
• Infection at the incision sites inside the mouth.
• Asymmetry or uneven removal of buccal fat pads.
• Rarely, damage to the facial muscles or salivary ducts.

Alternative Treatments

• Non-surgical fat reduction techniques such as injectables or laser therapy.
• Facial exercises or weight loss for natural facial contouring.
• Facial implants or fillers to enhance cheekbones without removing buccal fat.

Success Rate

The success rate is high, with many patients reporting satisfaction with the results and a significant improvement in facial contours. However, success can vary based on individual factors such as skin elasticity and the original size of the buccal fat pads.

Procedure step-by-step overivew

• Consultation with a plastic surgeon to assess facial structure and discuss desired outcomes.
• Administration of local anesthesia to numb the cheek area.
• A small incision is made inside the mouth, on the inner side of the cheek.
• Identification and careful removal of the buccal fat pad from each cheek.
• Closure of the incisions with dissolvable sutures.
• Post-operative care instructions are provided to ensure proper healing.