Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Irvine, CA
Buccal fat pad removal gently reduces fullness in the lower cheeks to reveal a more sculpted, contoured facial shape. The procedure is ideal for people who feel their face looks round, child-like, or lacks definition despite a healthy lifestyle. By carefully removing a portion of the natural cheek fat through tiny incisions inside the mouth, our surgeons create refined cheek contours that highlight your bone structure while maintaining soft, balanced features.
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Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012
Procedure Quick Facts:
- Duration of Procedure:30–60 minutes
- Anesthesia:Local with sedation
- Recovery:Most patients return to normal activity in about 1 week
- Results Duration:Long-lasting
Everyone has a naturally occurring pocket of fat deep within the cheeks called the buccal fat pad. Its purpose is to cushion the facial muscles and help them glide smoothly when you speak or chew. In some people, the pad is larger, causing the lower cheeks to look full or puffy regardless of overall body weight. Buccal fat pad removal is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that carefully extracts a portion of this fat through tiny incisions inside the mouth. By reducing excess volume, the surgeon can enhance cheekbone definition, slim the lower face, and deliver a more refined contour—all without external scars.
If you're considering buccal fat pad removal, South Coast Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every step. Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve your aesthetic goals.
- Enhanced Facial ContourThe procedure removes excess volume from the lower cheeks, creating gentle hollows beneath the cheekbones and a sculpted V-shape that many find youthful and elegant.
- No Visible ScarringIncisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no external marks. This allows you to enjoy refined results without concerns about visible surgical scars.
- Quick Procedure and RecoveryMost buccal fat pad removals take less than an hour and involve a relatively short downtime, making it easier to fit into busy lifestyles.
- Long-Lasting ResultsBecause fat cells do not typically regenerate, the slimming effect of buccal fat removal can be maintained for years as long as overall weight remains stable.
- Improved ConfidenceA defined facial profile can help you feel more comfortable in photos, on video calls, and in social settings, boosting self-esteem.
- Subtle Yet Significant ChangeFriends and family may notice you look more rested and refined without immediately recognizing you had surgery, preserving your natural appearance.
Watch our videos to see real patient results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.
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Creates gentle mid-cheek hollows that accentuate natural cheekbone definition for a more sculpted look
Eliminates childhood-like facial fullness to better align your appearance with your age and lifestyle
Uses hidden intraoral incisions, allowing you to enjoy aesthetic improvements without visible scars
Provides a permanent facial slimming effect that does not typically require maintenance treatments
While the goal is the same—refined cheek contours—there are a few approaches your surgeon may recommend based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Standard Intraoral Buccal Fat Removal
The classic technique uses a small incision on the inner cheek to gently tease out a portion of the buccal fat pad. It is ideal for patients whose primary concern is lower-cheek fullness without significant skin laxity. The procedure is quick, scar-free, and delivers consistent slimming results.
Buccal Fat Removal with Cheek Augmentation
For patients seeking both slimming and enhanced midface projection, fat removal can be paired with fat transfer or implants to highlight the cheekbones further. Combining these techniques balances volume and contour for a harmonious result.
Buccal Fat Reduction with Facelift
Mature patients undergoing a lower facelift may benefit from concurrent buccal fat reduction. Removing excess cheek fat while tightening skin and deeper tissues offers comprehensive rejuvenation and sharper definition along the jawline.
See real results from our patients
Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein have extensive experience sculpting facial contours through buccal fat pad removal. Their precision approach, artistic eye, and commitment to subtle enhancement ensure your results look natural and harmonious with the rest of your features.
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Beauty Inside-Out
We treat beyond the visible, caring for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every aesthetic treatment is provided with warm and exceptional care to elevate your well-being and confidence.
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Unmatched Predictability
Visualize your potential results with cutting-edge Crisalix 3D imaging, ensuring clarity and confidence from the start of your cosmetic journey. Our transparent planning process covers every detail, from realistic expectations to comprehensive pricing.
Expert Healing
Your personalized care plan doesn't end when you leave the operating room. Adoreal's automated recovery prompts guide you through a personalized healing journey, including 24/7 access to your surgical team to address questions or concerns. Track your aesthetic recovery progress in real-time, receive important reminders, and experience peace of mind knowing that expert support is always available.
Protected Investment
We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage that protects your aesthetic outcomes long after your final follow-up. Your care includes up to 5 years of medical complication protection, a 2-year satisfaction guarantee for minor adjustments, and lifetime implant monitoring for eligible cases. Combined with ongoing access to your complete medical records and continued support from our team, you can trust that your journey to confidence is backed by expertise, technology, and a genuine commitment to your long-term well-being.
A Customized Approach to Breast Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch
Your consultation is a private, personalized experience designed around your goals.
Our surgeon will also assess individual factors such as fat pad size, skin elasticity, and overall facial harmony, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.
- Your aesthetic goals and desired cheek contour
- Detailed facial examination and photography
- Explanation of surgical technique and incision placement
- Recovery timeline, restrictions, and aftercare expectations
- Potential risks and how we minimize them
- Cost estimate and financing options
Ideal candidates are generally healthy individuals bothered by persistent lower-cheek fullness that does not improve with diet or exercise. A consultation helps confirm whether buccal fat removal alone, or in combination with another procedure, can achieve your desired facial contour.
Good overall physical health
Non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery
Noticeable lower-cheek fullness or "chipmunk cheeks"
Stable body weight with no plans for major changes
Realistic expectations about subtle yet significant results
Willingness to follow post-operative care instructions
No active oral infections or significant dental issues
This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.
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Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment
Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether buccal fat pad removal is the right solution for your concerns.
During your consultation, your surgeon will:
• Discuss your desired cheek contour and facial goals
• Review your medical history and any oral health issues
• Conduct a detailed facial examination and take photographs
• Explain the procedure, incision placement, and recovery process
• Answer questions about risks, benefits, and alternative options
Together, you'll create a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.
The Buccal Fat Pad Removal Procedure
The outpatient procedure is performed under local anesthesia with optional light sedation to ensure your comfort throughout.
During the procedure:
• A small intraoral incision is made near the molars on each cheek
• Gentle pressure exposes the buccal fat pad without external cutting
• The surgeon carefully teases out and trims the appropriate fat amount
• Dissolvable sutures close the inner-cheek incisions for easy healing
You will rest in our recovery area for a short time before heading home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions.
Buccal Fat Pad Removal Recovery Timeline
Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.
Immediately after surgery
Mild cheek swelling and numbness are common; you can typically return home within an hour.
First few days
• Use prescribed mouth rinse to keep incisions clean
• Follow a soft-food diet to minimize irritation
• Manage swelling with cold compresses and head elevation
Weeks 1-2
• Swelling begins to subside and bruising, if any, fades
• Return to non-strenuous work or school typically within a week
• Light exercise may resume as guided by your surgeon
Weeks 3-4
•Most swelling resolves, allowing early results to show
• Resume regular diet and full activities unless otherwise directed
You'll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
Your Buccal Fat Pad Removal Results
Buccal fat pad removal results are visible right away, though your cheeks will continue to refine as swelling resolves and tissues settle.
Early results
Initial cheek slimming is noticeable once immediate swelling diminishes in the first one to two weeks.
Following weeks
Contours sharpen progressively over the next several months as residual swelling subsides and skin adapts.
Final results
Most patients appreciate their definitive facial shape around the three- to four-month mark, with subtle refinement continuing up to six months.
With proper care and a stable weight, buccal fat pad removal offers long-lasting enhancement that brings out your natural bone structure.
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- Month 4 - 6
- Long time
Buccal Fat Pad Removal Results and Safety Considerations
Understanding how surgical technique, anatomy, and healing affect buccal fat pad removal results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.
Achieving Natural-Looking Results
Natural outcomes hinge on removing just the right amount of fat. Removing too little may leave unwanted fullness, whereas removing too much can create a hollowed or gaunt appearance. Our surgeons precisely measure and sculpt to preserve soft transitions between the midface and jawline, ensuring refinement without harsh lines. Your unique facial structure, skin quality, and long-term aging patterns are factored into the surgical plan so the result remains flattering as you age.
Where Are the Incisions?
Incisions are hidden inside the mouth along the inner cheek lining, leaving no external scars.
Intraoral incision opposite upper molars
Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility.
Is Scarring a Concern?
Because all cuts are inside the mouth, visible scarring is not an issue. However, the internal incision must heal properly, and good oral hygiene is essential for optimal recovery.
Scar Healing Timeline
As your body heals, scars will change gradually over time:
Weeks 1-2
Incision sites feel firm and may appear white or yellow as they seal
Months 1-3
Internal tissue remodels, and any residual tenderness subsides
Around 6 months
Incisions are fully matured and typically unnoticeable
1-2 years
Natural collagen remodeling continues, maintaining soft, healthy tissue
Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.
Understanding Risks and Safety
Understanding Risks and Safety
Buccal fat pad removal is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of.
Potential risks may include:
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Infection inside the mouth
• Temporary numbness of the cheek
• Damage to nearby facial nerves or salivary ducts
• Asymmetry or over-resection
• Poor wound healing
Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care.
Reducing Your Risk
Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe buccal fat pad removal experience include:
• Thorough pre-operative evaluation
• Precise surgical planning tailored to your anatomy
• Surgery performed in a fully accredited facility
• Detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care
By choosing an experienced surgical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are satisfied with their buccal fat pad removal results.
The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.
Financing options available through:
Trusted by Our Community
4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County
Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.
N. Snoozzz
Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !
About the procedure
How is buccal fat pad removal performed?
The surgeon makes a small incision inside each cheek, gently teases out a portion of the buccal fat pad, and closes the incision with dissolvable sutures. The entire process typically takes less than an hour.
Will removing the fat affect my ability to chew or smile?
No. Only a portion of the fat pad is removed, leaving enough tissue to maintain smooth muscle movement for talking, chewing, and facial expressions.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort managed easily with over-the-counter pain medication. Local anesthesia and optional sedation keep you comfortable during surgery.
How long will swelling last after surgery?
Swelling is most noticeable during the first week and gradually subsides over several weeks. Final definition is usually visible by three to four months.
Recovery & Results
When can I return to work or school?
Many patients feel comfortable returning to non-strenuous activities within five to seven days, depending on individual healing.
Are the results permanent?
Yes. Because fat cells do not typically regenerate, the slimming effect is long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight.
What complications are possible?
Potential risks include bleeding, infection, nerve injury, asymmetry, or over-resection. Choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon greatly reduces these risks.
How do you minimize the chance of asymmetry?
Our surgeons carefully measure the fat removed from each cheek and assess facial balance throughout the procedure, ensuring symmetrical, natural results.
Safety & Risks
Is buccal fat pad removal covered by insurance?
Because it is considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance does not typically cover buccal fat pad removal.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes. We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to provide payment plans that can make your investment more manageable.
Will weight changes affect my results?
Significant weight gain can increase facial fullness, but because the buccal fat pad has been reduced, your cheeks should remain slimmer than before surgery.
Do I need to follow a special diet afterward?
A soft-food diet is recommended for the first few days to avoid irritating the incisions. You can gradually resume regular foods as healing progresses.
Cost & Insurance
Is buccal fat pad removal covered by insurance?
Because it is considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance does not typically cover buccal fat pad removal.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes. We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to provide payment plans that can make your investment more manageable.
Lifestyle & Long-Term Care
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