While chubby cheeks may be considered cute during childhood, you might not think they’re quite as endearing when they stick around into adulthood.
If you desire a slimmer, more defined facial appearance, buccal fat reduction could be an excellent solution. However, as with any type of surgical procedure, buccal fat removal does carry some inherent risks.
While buccal fat removal complications are rare, it is still important to be aware of the possible risks associated with the procedure to ensure you don’t experience buccal fat removal regret.
Buccal Fat Removal Risks to Be Aware Of
The primary risks of buccal fat removal that patients should be aware of before they decide to have the procedure include:
- infection
- complications of anesthesia
- cardiac and pulmonary issues
- deep vein thrombosis
- excessive bleeding
- hematoma/bruising
- muscle weakness due to facial nerve injury
- salivary gland injury
- changes in sensation/numbness
- accumulation of fluid (seroma)
- facial asymmetry
- the removal of too much fat
While it is important to be aware of buccal fat removal risks, don’t be alarmed. In most cases, buccal fat removal is performed safely without complication. Your surgeon should discuss these risks with you in detail prior to your procedure to ensure you are a suitable candidate for buccal fat removal.
How Can You Minimize Buccal Fat Pad Removal Risks?
While buccal fat removal is considered a low-risk procedure, there are several things you can do to further reduce the risk of complications.
The most valuable thing you can do is choose an experienced surgeon with proven results. Ensure they are board-certified and can provide before and after images as evidence of their work. Read online reviews from previous patients, and make sure you ask lots of questions during your consultation.
In addition to your choice of doctor, here are some other things you can do to ensure a good outcome and smooth recovery:
- quit smoking
- ensure your doctor is aware of any medications or supplements you take
- stick to a liquid diet in the initial recovery period (your doctor should advise when it is safe to reintroduce soft foods)
- regularly use the mouthwash provided by your doctor to keep infection at bay
- follow all post-procedure care instructions provided by your surgeon
Looking for an Experienced Plastic Surgeon in Los Angeles?
The delicate nature of buccal fat removal makes it imperative that you choose a highly-experienced surgeon.
When you entrust Dr. Sedgh to perform your procedure, you’ll be receiving treatment from a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with a proven record of success. With supplementary certifications in head and neck surgery, you’ll benefit from Dr. Sedgh’s specialized skills, knowledge and superior attention to detail, which he utilizes every day to produce refined, natural-looking results for his patients.
Backed by a welcoming and friendly team of health professionals, our personalized approach will ensure you are well cared for from the moment you first attend our West Hollywood clinic, until the completion of your treatment.
Contact the team at Sedgh Plastic Surgery to request a personal consultation with Dr. Sedgh.
Posted on behalf of Sedgh Plastic Surgery
