If you would like your face to be slimmer, more defined, and chiseled, a cheek reduction in Richmond might be the solution for you. Cheek reduction surgery, also called buccal fat removal, is a procedure performed to remove excess fat under the cheekbones. The surgery makes large, chubby cheeks thinner by removing fat from the cheek hollows.

To learn more about buccal fat removal and see whether you are a good candidate for this procedure, give us a call at Montante Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics. We are happy to walk you through your facial surgery options and decide whether a cheek reduction is right for you.

Benefits of Cheek Reduction Surgery

Buccal fat removal could boost your confidence and create a more balanced appearance. Other benefits of the procedure include:

  • Eliminates excess cheek fat pads to make your lower face appear more sculpted
  • Requires minimal downtime, usually no more than three days
  • Makes your cheekbones more prominent and defined by removing the fat pad
  • Ensures permanent results, even if you gain weight post-procedure
  • Leaves no visible scarring since the incisions are made inside your mouth

A cheek reduction surgery is a highly individualized procedure, and it is not always the right fit for everywhere. Dr. Montante can adjust your surgical plan based on your unique needs and goals.

How Buccal Fat Removal Works

You are a good candidate for a cheek reduction if you are physically healthy with a stable weight, have realistic expectations about the procedure, and do not smoke or are willing to quit several weeks before and after the procedure. During your initial consultation at our Richmond office, Dr. Montante will learn more about you, your medical history, and your expectations, as well as discuss recovery time and results.

During the procedure, we apply local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Dr. Montante then makes a small incision inside your mouth to access your buccal fat pads. The sutures are strategically placed to close the incisions inside your mouth, and they are typically absorbable and will dissolve in about five to seven days.

What Is the Recovery Time for Cheek Reduction Surgery in Richmond?

Your recovery could take between four and six weeks. During the first week, you might feel some slight discomfort accompanied by bruising and swelling, and your surgeon might prescribe pain medication to reduce any discomfort. Since the incisions are inside your mouth, you could experience challenges eating. We recommend eating soft foods and avoiding acidic foods such as oranges or tomatoes.

Before you leave the hospital, you will be given specific instructions on how to take care of the incisions. These include:

  • Using special mouth rinses to reduce the risk of infection
  • Taking or applying medications for faster healing
  • Sleeping in a certain position to avoid placing excess force or weight on the incisions
  • Avoiding certain foods and drinks
  • Being careful about specific concerns listed on the surgical website
  • Attending a follow-up consultation with your plastic surgeon

You might have to wait several months before seeing the final results. You will have swelling during the first few weeks, but your cheeks will gradually contour to their new appearance.

Book a Consultation for Cheek Reduction Surgery in Richmond Today

Feeling confident about your facial features is crucial to your self-esteem. If you have large cheeks that give your face a square or flat appearance, you might feel self-conscious. A cheek reduction surgery at Montante Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics will give you the sculpted, attractive set of cheekbones you desire.

If you are interested in learning more about cheek reduction in Richmond, we are here to answer your questions. This procedure is not right for everyone, so contact us today to learn more about your options.