While most of us worry about losing fat as we age, what if removing it could actually enhance your facelift results? Could buccal fat removal be the key to a more sculpted look?
Well, let’s start with the basics. A facelift is a powerful procedure designed to combat sagging skin and restore a youthful appearance. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, and the tissues that once held everything firmly in place begin to stretch and droop…
In a facelift, the surgeon removes the excess, sagging skin and tightens what’s left, creating a smoother, more youthful look. One of the most effective techniques for this is the High-SMAS facelift, which targets deeper layers of the face for longer-lasting results.
But here’s the thing—sometimes, it’s not just the skin that’s sagging. There’s also a little-known culprit called buccal fat that can contribute to that droopy look. During a facelift, it’s often necessary to address this as well. But what exactly is buccal fat?
What Is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat is a pocket of fat located deep within your cheeks, stretching from the temple area down to the corners of your mouth. Unlike subcutaneous fat (the fat you can pinch), buccal fat is much deeper and isn’t affected by diet or exercise. It’s genetically determined and can only be removed surgically.
As you age, this fat pad can begin to droop, causing a “bulldog” appearance—where the sides of your mouth look puffed out, and your cheeks begin to sag overall. No matter how smooth your skin is, if the buccal fat isn’t addressed, it can undo the effects of a facelift. And since this fat is so deep, it can only be effectively removed through surgery.
Why Combine Buccal Fat Removal with a Facelift?
Here’s where things get tricky. If you undergo a facelift without removing or repositioning the buccal fat, you might end up with an odd result. Your skin will be tighter, but the deep fat pad will still be there, possibly even more prominent now that everything else is lifted. Imagine spending time and money on a facelift, only to have bulging cheeks ruin the results.
That’s why it’s so important to check the amount of buccal fat before surgery. During the facelift, the surgeon can remove or reposition this fat to ensure a smooth, contoured result. The buccal fat removal is performed through the same incision used for the facelift, so there’s no additional scarring. The surgeon carefully exposes the buccal fat and removes just the right amount to slim down the cheeks, creating a natural and harmonious look.
Some might worry, “Is it risky to do both surgeries at once?” The answer is NO—when done by an experienced surgeon, combining buccal fat removal with a facelift can actually improve the overall results without adding significant risk.
Important Post-Surgery Care
After your surgery, it’s crucial to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully. Start with cold compresses as directed by your medical team. Using ice packs during the initial recovery period helps reduce swelling and ease any discomfort.
Avoid touching, pressing, or applying pressure to the incision sites and swollen areas. Additionally, steer clear of saunas and alcohol for at least a month. Once your stitches are removed, you can resume washing your face and taking showers the next day. Light activities like gentle walks are encouraged to maintain good circulation, but strenuous exercise should be avoided.
Ready to Restore Your Youthful Look?
In summary, if you’re considering a facelift and have significant cheek sagging, it’s crucial to address the buccal fat as well. Ignoring it could lead to an unbalanced, unnatural appearance. Instead, choose a clinic that carefully evaluates your needs and considers all aspects of your face—including the buccal fat—when planning your surgery.
In some cases, rather than removing the buccal fat, your surgeon might choose to reposition it, depending on the extent of your cheek sagging. This is why it’s essential to work with a clinic that pays attention to these details, like ours at Agape K-Beauty Experts.
Remember, the goal is to achieve a natural, balanced look that enhances your features without looking overdone. By addressing both the skin and the underlying buccal fat, you can achieve a more refined, youthful appearance that truly stands the test of time.
If you’re ready to address your concerns and want to look as young and vibrant as you feel inside, we’re here to help. If you trust in our expertise, we invite you to get a 100% free consultation with us. Just click the button below to get started.
