10 Things No one Tells you about Buccal Fat Pad Removal Surgery
When contemplating buccal fat removal, individuals often find themselves captivated by the allure of a minor surgical procedure promising enhanced facial contours. However, it is important to understand the details that can only be understood after experiencing them. This article seeks to shed light on five concealed facets of buccal fat removal, bridging the informational gap that conventional sources may overlook.
First, some basic facts.
The buccal fat pad is a naturally occurring pocket of fat located in the cheeks, beneath the cheekbones. Usually, it is not more than 4 or 5 ml in volume. Its purpose is to provide cushioning and support to facial structures, particularly during chewing and facial expressions. Surgery to remove the buccal fat pad, known as buccal fat removal or cheek reduction surgery, is performed for cosmetic purposes. It aims to reduce the fullness in the cheeks, creating a more sculpted and defined facial appearance.
This procedure is sought after by individuals who desire a slimmer, more contoured face and jawline. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, resulting in a subtle yet noticeable change in facial contours. However, it's important to note that the extent of fat removal should be conservative to avoid excessive hollowness or an unnatural appearance. Recovery is relatively quick, and results become more apparent as post-operative swelling subsides.
Important things to know.
1. Lingering Stitches and Anesthesia Variability: Despite its categorization as a minor surgery, buccal fat removal necessitates a measure of patience. The surgery can last from 45 minutes to one and half hours. Fat pads are about 4 to 5 ml and fairly easy to access and remove.
2. Stiches in cheeks: Sutures remain an integral part of the postoperative phase. This means the dissolvable sutures do not fall off for up to four weeks. You will be able to feel them with your tongue. But you should try to resist doing that because it can cause infections.
3. Anesthesia- Occasionally, the procedure might entail the administration of general anesthesia rather than solely relying on local anesthesia, making it imperative to discuss anesthesia options with your surgeon. If you feel any anxiety on any part of the procedure, then you must confide your fears to your surgeon.
4. Persistent Swelling and Rigorous Oral Care: Post-surgery, swelling is inevitable. Depending on several factors the swelling will vary. For me it took 8 weeks before swelling subsided. But in the meantime, it requires adhering to a stringent regimen of oral hygiene, including the practice of gargling, at minimum, four to five times daily. Every time you eat or drink, you must gargle. Initially, the pronounced swelling can impede proper chewing. You may want to drink more liquid food like soups, oatmeal etc. You may accidently chew on the swelling. You will have to take meticulous care to prevent this inadvertent contact with the engorged tissue to prevent infection.
Buccal Fat Removal Results in Men
5. Potential post op Infections: Swelling is an anticipated postoperative outcome. It can occasionally serve as a indication of complications in the form of infections. You should keep a close eye on unusual swelling. Should swelling escalate beyond manageable proportions, accompanied by signs such as purulent discharge or unusual oral odors, it is important to promptly seek medical attention, which may need antibiotic intervention.
6. Gradual Transformation Over Months: Don’t have unrealistic expectations as the transformative effects of buccal fat removal manifest gradually. It may take a span of six months for discernible results to emerge. As post-surgical swelling subsides, one will gradually discern a subtle flattening effect around the periphery of the face, accompanied by the accentuation of the jawline.
7. Effects of Weight gain after procedure: It is imperative to note that the visibility of these results can diminish if substantial weight gain occurs in the facial region.
8. Have Patience: It is imperative that when you take this decision that you must have patience. Changes begin to manifest within 2 to 3 weeks but a complete transformation can require patience lasting up to six months. Interestingly, photographs may show the changes faster than your personal perception.
9. Prolonged Internal Swelling: An aspect seldom discussed is the persistence of internal swelling within the buccal cavity. This is like scarring on the operated areas. It can be raised. Although this swelling is generally painless, it may endure for an extended duration. In some cases, it may take up to one year for the buccal fat pads to fully flatten. Consequently, individuals are encouraged to maintain caution while eating during this period, to avoid any accidental pressure on the still-recovering tissues.
10. No drastic change: Buccal Fat pad removal surgery is a minor surgery and does not give very drastic results. It can only enhance the result of healthy diet and exercise to give you chiseled cheeks and jawbone.
In conclusion, buccal fat removal offers a path to facial refinement with nuanced changes. Before you decide on this surgery, you must give even minor considerations equal attention.
I hope with this article, I have given you a more comprehensive understanding of these less discussed aspects of this surgery. You should approach this cosmetic procedure with the informed confidence required to navigate the journey to a more sculpted appearance.
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