Buccal Fat Removal (Cheek Reduction) Surgery with Dr. John Hilinski
Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure designed to reduce the fullness of the cheeks by removing excess buccal fat pads. This procedure helps create a more contoured, slimmed-down appearance, enhancing facial definition and balance. For patients who desire a more sculpted look or feel that their cheeks appear overly round or chubby, buccal fat removal can provide a refined aesthetic result.
Dr. Hilinski, Nicole, and team are absolutely amazing! Dr. Hilinski is very knowledgeable, takes the time to thoroughly explain procedures, and has gone above and beyond with patient care during my procedure and throughout all of my follow-ups.
Why Choose Buccal Fat Removal?
Some patients naturally carry more buccal fat, giving their face a rounded or “baby face” appearance even as adults. Buccal fat removal is ideal for individuals looking to achieve:
- A more defined cheek and jawline
- A slimmer, more contoured facial appearance
- Improved facial harmony and balance
- A more mature, angular appearance
If you have a round face due to genetics or are dissatisfied with the appearance of your full cheeks, buccal fat removal can help refine your facial contours without the need for invasive procedures like facelifts.
What is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a straightforward procedure in which Dr. John Hilinski removes a portion of the buccal fat pad located in the cheeks. This fat is found between the muscles of the lower face, and once reduced, it results in a more sculpted and slimmer look.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with minimal downtime. Through a small incision inside the mouth, Dr. Hilinski carefully extracts a portion of the buccal fat pad. The result is a subtle yet impactful reduction in cheek fullness, enhancing the natural contours of the face.
Dr. John Hilinski – A Facial Plastic Surgery Expert
Dr. John Hilinski is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive facial procedures. With his extensive training and years of experience, Dr. Hilinski is highly skilled in buccal fat removal surgery, focusing on delivering natural-looking results that enhance each patient’s unique features.
Dr. Hilinski earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and completed his residency at the University of California, San Diego. He also trained under the mentorship of Dr. Dean M. Toriumi, a world-renowned facial plastic surgeon. His advanced training and experience have made him a leading expert in facial contouring, including buccal fat removal. Patients in San Diego and beyond trust Dr. Hilinski for his ability to create beautifully sculpted results with precision and care.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Hilinski is a respected contributor to the field of facial plastic surgery, with numerous publications in medical journals and book chapters on surgical techniques. His dedication to patient education, safety, and comfort is evident in every step of the treatment process, from the initial consultation to post-operative care. Patients consistently praise Dr. Hilinski for his honest, transparent approach and his commitment to delivering natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
Slimmer Face
Buccal fat removal slims down the face, creating a more angular appearance.
Natural Results
The procedure provides subtle and natural-looking results that highlight your facial structure.
Minimally Invasive
Buccal fat removal is an outpatient procedure with a short recovery time and minimal discomfort.
Improved Self-Confidence
Many patients report feeling more confident and satisfied with their appearance following the surgery.
Am I a Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Good candidates for buccal fat removal surgery are individuals who:
- Do not have overly thin faces or a narrow jawline, as further fat reduction could create a gaunt appearance over time
- Have round or chubby cheeks due to excess buccal fat
- Desire a slimmer, more sculpted face
- Are in good health and have realistic expectations for the outcome
The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
The buccal fat removal procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia in Dr. Hilinski’s state-of-the-art surgery center. The surgery takes about 30 minutes to complete.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort.
- Incision: A small incision is made inside the mouth, which leaves no visible scarring.
- Fat Removal: Dr. Hilinski carefully removes the excess buccal fat from each cheek.
- Closing: The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures, and patients can return home shortly after the procedure.
Recovery from Buccal Fat Removal
Following buccal fat removal surgery, patients can expect mild swelling and discomfort for a few days. However, most patients are able to return to normal activities within a week. The final results of the procedure will become more visible as swelling subsides, typically within a few weeks. Dr. Hilinski provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
FAQ: Buccal Fat Removal Surgery
Buccal fat removal surgery is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the fullness in the cheeks by removing excess fat pads, resulting in a more sculpted facial appearance.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so patients experience minimal discomfort during surgery. Some mild swelling and discomfort may occur during the recovery period but is generally well-managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Most patients can return to regular activities within a few days, with full recovery and visible results within a few weeks.
Yes, the results of buccal fat removal are permanent since the fat pads do not regenerate.
No, the incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars from the procedure.
Yes, many patients choose to combine buccal fat removal with other facial contouring procedures such as chin augmentation or neck liposuction for enhanced results.
Why Choose John Hilinski MD Facial Plastic Surgery?
When it comes to facial plastic surgery, choosing a highly qualified surgeon is crucial for achieving your aesthetic goals. Dr. John Hilinski is not only a board-certified facial plastic surgeon but also a respected leader in the field. With training from Harvard Medical School and specialized fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Hilinski has the experience and expertise to perform a wide range of surgical procedures with precision and artistry.
At our San Diego practice, we are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments, including rhinoplasty, facelifts, eyelid surgery, and non-surgical treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers. We prioritize patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction, ensuring that every treatment is tailored to meet your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Hilinski
If you are considering buccal fat removal surgery to achieve a slimmer, more contoured face, schedule a consultation with Dr. John Hilinski today. During your consultation, Dr. Hilinski will assess your facial anatomy and discuss your aesthetic goals to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.