What Is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Buccal fat pad removal is a surgical procedure that uses incisions inside the mouth to access and remove the natural fatty deposits in the lower cheeks. These fat pads cushion the facial muscles and give the face a round, soft appearance, often creating a “baby face” that many adults wish to alter as they get older. Though the buccal fat naturally diminishes over time, surgical removal can accelerate this process and sculpt a more angular, contoured facial appearance.

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Sculpting a More Defined Face

While every person has their own motivations for seeking facial rejuvenation, many of our Houston patients come to us for the following buccal fat pad removal benefits:

  • Enhanced cheekbone definition
  • Improved facial harmony and balance
  • A slimmer, more contoured midface
  • Reduction in the appearance of a “baby face,” creating a more mature look
  • A permanent solution to excess cheek fullness
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Are You a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Houston?

Ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal in Houston are healthy, non-smoking adults who fit the following criteria:

  • Feel your cheeks appear overly full or give you a too-young appearance
  • Are at or near a stable weight
  • Feel your facial features lack definition or balance
  • Have realistic expectations for the procedure

During your initial consultation, Dr. Eisemann will talk through your reasons for seeking surgery and examine your facial structure to confirm your candidacy.

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The Eisemann Difference

When you choose Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center for your buccal fat pad removal in Houston, you choose an experience rooted in clinical excellence and compassionate, family-driven care. Our team is led by Dr. Michael Eisemann, a triple board-certified surgeon with over a dozen awards and professional memberships, and his son, Dr. Bradley Eisemann, a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon who has studied at the nation’s top institutions, including New York University and Baylor College of Medicine. With over three decades of combined experience, they guide every treatment plan with advanced expertise and a passion for natural-looking, beautiful results.

Here, every patient is treated like they’re family, and you’ll be met with warmth, respect, and understanding from the minute you walk through our Houston doors. We’re here to answer your questions, deliver high-quality care, and bring your vision for yourself to life.

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A Private Consultation

Every patient’s journey at Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center begins with a one-on-one consultation at our Houston practice. There, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, concerns, and medical history, and Dr. Eisemann will assess your facial structure, fat distribution, and skin quality to determine if buccal fat pad removal is right for you.

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Pricing Your Procedure

The cost of your buccal fat pad removal in Houston will depend on the following factors:

  • Amount of fat removed
  • Surgical complexity
  • Whether additional procedures will be performed in the same session

After your initial consultation, our team will share a detailed cost breakdown, including financing options, for full transparency.

What to Expect From Your Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Houston

During surgery, Dr. Eisemann will make small incisions inside the mouth to access the buccal fat pads and carefully remove them. Depending on your goals, he may partially or fully remove the fat pads to achieve your desired look. Your incisions will be closed with small, dissolvable sutures, leading to no external scarring.

Buccal fat pad removal is typically performed using our signature IV sedation with nerve block, though you may request local anesthesia with sedation if you prefer. Your procedure will be done at our QUAD A-accredited surgical center in Houston, and you and a trusted friend, family member, or partner will rest in a private recovery suite until you’re ready to head home.

Patient-First Recovery

Recovery after buccal fat pad removal typically involves swelling, bruising, and soreness in the mid and lower face, which should resolve within two weeks. We’ll provide you with specialized face wraps and ice packs that can help reduce swelling and support your tissues as they heal.

Most patients return to normal activities, including desk work, social gatherings, and gentle movement, within a few days, but you may wish to wait until initial swelling and bruising subside for your own comfort. You’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks to give your body time to recover.

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Your Post-Op Process

After your procedure, our team will share a customized recovery plan tailored to your body’s individual needs. This plan may include the following items:

  • Incision side care protocols
  • Dental hygiene recommendations
  • Food and drink guidelines
  • Swelling and pain management strategies
  • Supportive garment guidelines
  • Activity limitations
  • Sun protection and exposure requirements
  • Sleep position restrictions
  • Side effects to monitor

Over the coming weeks, you’ll return to our Houston practice for regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Eisemann. There, he’ll assess your healing progress, ensure your internal sutures have dissolved properly, and approve your return to high-impact activities, such as swimming, running, and intense exercise.

Completing Your Transformation

Many of our Houston patients incorporate buccal fat pad removal into a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan. Complementary procedures include the following:

  • Facelift
  • Rhinoplasty
  • Chin augmentation
  • Dermal fillers

Buccal Fat Pad Removal Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my procedure take?

Buccal fat pad removal typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete. During your consultation, Dr. Eisemann will walk you through a realistic procedure timeline so you know exactly what to expect on surgery day.

Can buccal fat pad removal help with a double chin?

No. Buccal fat pad removal targets only the lower cheeks and does not affect the chin area. While buccal fat removal may help slightly define the jawline, procedures like liposuction and chin augmentation are better suited to these goals. Dr. Eisemann will determine which treatments are right for you during your consultation.

When will I see my final results?

The final results of your buccal fat pad removal will reveal themselves once all residual swelling fades, which may take a few months. You’ll notice initial results within a few weeks, as initial swelling and bruising resolve.

Is buccal fat pad removal permanent?

Yes. The removed fat cells will not return to your cheeks after healing. However, weight fluctuations may cause the remaining fat cells along your cheeks to enlarge, impacting your long-term results. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy habits is the best way to preserve your outcome.

References

  • Correa, B; Eisemann, B; Eisemann, M: The Transconjunctival Midfacelift: A “Hole” Different Fixation. The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, Volume 24, Issue 3, Pages 987–991, May 2013.
  • Eisemann, M and Sharma, G K: The Wildervanck Syndrome: Cervico-oculo-acoustic Dysplasia. Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery 87: Pages 892–897, 1979.
  • Eisemann, M: A Simplified Lateral Canthopexy Technique. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, 125: Pages 248e–249e, 2010.
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