For patients looking to enhance their facial contours and achieve a more sculpted, defined look, two of the most effective options are chin liposuction and buccal fat removal.
At our practice led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Darren Smith MD, we specialize in both of these facial rejuvenation procedures.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of chin liposuction and buccal fat removal, including ideal candidacy, the consultation process, procedural details, recovery, results, and more.
With Dr. Smith’s unmatched expertise and artistry, we’re able to provide our patients with natural-looking, balanced outcomes from these customized procedures.
Defining Chin Liposuction and Buccal Fat Removal
Chin liposuction, also known as submental liposuction or submental lipectomy, is a body contouring procedure that removes excess fat deposits under the chin area. It can provide definition to a “double chin” and enhance the neck and jawline profile.
Buccal fat removal, or buccal lipectomy, is a procedure that eliminates fat pads inside the cheeks to achieve a more sculpted, slimming look in the midface.
Both procedures involve small incisions through which fat is removed via liposuction or direct extraction. They provide detailed facial contouring not possible with non-surgical treatments like CoolSculpting or Kybella.
When performed by a specialist like Dr. Smith, patients can see refined definitions of their chin, jawline, neck, and cheekbones.
Finding the Right Facial Surgeon for You
When considering specialty procedures like chin lipo and buccal fat removal, finding the right plastic surgeon is key. Dr. Darren Smith MD has an unparalleled background that makes him one of Manhattan’s top choices for facial rejuvenation procedures.
He is double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as the American Board of Otolaryngology.
Dr. Smith is one of the only surgeons nationwide who has completed intensive fellowships in both craniofacial surgery and aesthetic surgery. This high-level sub-specialty training provides him with expertise in precision facial enhancements.
He also has dedicated years to research and discovery in the fields of 3D bioprinting, virtual surgical planning, and stem cell therapies.
With his elite qualifications, surgical artistry, and commitment to patient satisfaction, Dr. Smith is able to achieve natural, balanced results tailored to each patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Determining Your Candidacy and Goals
The first step for any cosmetic procedure is an initial consultation. At our practice, these appointments are focused on determining candidacy, reviewing medical history, understanding patient goals, and setting appropriate expectations.
Candidates should be in overall good health without bleeding disorders or other issues that could impair healing. They should also have realistic expectations for the procedures’ results and limitations.
Some common goals that can potentially be achieved through properly planned chin and buccal fat removal include:
- Better definition of the chin, jawline, and upper neck
- A slimming or contouring of the cheeks
- Overall facial balance and harmony
- A younger, refreshed facial appearance
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
During consultations, Dr. Smith will provide an honest assessment of whether chin and cheek sculpting procedures can accomplish a patient’s aesthetic goals.
He will also discuss alternative treatments like injectables or skin tightening if they may be better options. Thorough pre-operative planning helps set our patients up for safe, successful outcomes.
Facial Anatomy and Details of the Procedures
Chin and cheek liposuction both involve meticulous planning based on the unique anatomy of each patient’s face. The procedures target different areas:
Chin Liposuction
This procedure focuses on fat deposits in the submental region under the chin. Small incisions are made either inside the mouth or externally under the chin. Dr. Smith then inserts a cannula to suction out excess fat, sculpting and contouring the chin and neck area.
He may also use laser or ultrasound assisted liposuction to target and emulsify fat prior to removal. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours depending on the technique used and amount of fat being removed.
Buccal Fat Removal
This procedure removes buccal fat pads inside the cheeks. Small incisions are made inside the mouth near the upper second molars.
Dr. Smith then extracts excess buccal fat through these openings. This serves to hollow and contour the midface region. The procedure time is typically around 30-60 minutes. Some fat is left in place to prevent a gaunt or hollowed look.
Both procedures are done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation for patient comfort and safety. Dr. Smith’s artistic eye and surgical precision allows him to create smooth, defined, yet natural facial contours customized to each patient.
Recovery Period and Post-Procedure Care
After chin or cheek liposuction, patients will need to take it easy for about a week. Some swelling, bruising, and numbness are normal and will dissipate with time. Pain is generally mild and managed with medication. Dr. Smith provides detailed post-op care instructions for optimal recovery, including:
- Cold compresses and head elevation to reduce swelling
- A liquid, soft food diet initially before returning to regular foods
- Oral hygiene instructions after buccal fat removal
- Avoiding strenuous activity for 2-3 weeks
- Taking prescribed medications to manage pain and promote healing
Follow up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and results. Most patients are back to normal activities within 7-14 days.
Seeing Your Refreshed Facial Contours
Patients will be able to see a difference in their facial contours quite early on during the recovery process.
However, it takes 2-3 months for all swelling to fully resolve and to appreciate the final contours after chin liposuction or buccal fat removal. Dr. Smith may have patients come back around the 3 month mark for follow up photographs to compare surgical changes.
Once swelling has diminished, the refined facial definition achieved is permanent for most patients who maintain a stable weight. The procedures can take years off one’s appearance, providing a refreshed, youthful look. Patients feel confident showing off their sculpted profile.
Non-surgical Options vs. Surgical Fat Reduction
While non-surgical alternatives like injectable Kybella or CoolSculpting can reduce small amounts of fat, they cannot provide the same dramatic facial contouring possible with chin and buccal fat removal procedures.
In some cases, non-surgical treatments may optimally be combined with liposuction for moderate improvement.
However, surgical fat removal performed expertly by a specialist like Dr. Smith can fully redefine the chin, cheeks, and jawline in a way not achievable through non-invasive means. Our patients are thrilled by their surgical results when non-surgical options have fallen short of their goals.
Maintaining a Balanced, Youthful Look
To maintain surgical facial rejuvenation long-term, patients should follow a stable nutrition and exercise plan to keep their weight consistent. Avoiding significant weight fluctuations can help prevent recurrence of facial fullness.
Patients should also diligently follow Dr. Smith’s skincare recommendations to keep their complexion looking smooth and renewed.
Periodic follow up appointments help assess if any touch up procedures may be beneficial down the road. But for most patients, their refined facial contours and profiles are long lasting.
Choosing an expert surgeon like Dr. Smith provides patients with balanced, natural-looking results from their chin and cheek sculpting procedures. His artistic eye, precision techniques, and extensive training enable him to meet patients’ aesthetic goals while minimizing risks and complications.
Dr. Smith takes the time to understand patients’ unique anatomy and desired outcomes. His custom approach allows each patient to achieve refined facial contours that appear smooth and seamless. Patients are thrilled with the refreshed, confident look reflected back at them in the mirror after procedures performed by Dr. Smith.
We encourage those interested in chin liposuction or buccal fat removal to explore whether these facial rejuvenation procedures are right for them. Please contact our practice to schedule a consultation with Dr. Smith and learn about your options. It would be our privilege to help you reveal your most assured, youthful self through facial contouring tailored just for you.
Risks and Potential Complications
While chin and cheek liposuction are considered relatively safe procedures when performed by a specialist like Dr. Smith, there are some risks to consider:
- Swelling, bruising and numbness that resolve over weeks
- Bleeding, infection, and poor wound healing
- Asymmetry or irregular contours requiring revision surgery
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
Dr. Smith utilizes advanced techniques and meticulous care to minimize risks and complications. He will discuss all the pros and cons of procedures during initial consultations.
The Cost of Facial Liposuction Procedures
Costs can vary based on the surgeon’s expertise, the geographic region, and the specific techniques used. Dr. Smith provides each patient with an individualized cost estimate. He also has financing options available through third party medical lenders.
Insurance rarely covers facial liposuction procedures performed solely for cosmetic improvement. However, insurance may apply if procedures are needed to correct functional issues like speech or swallowing problems.
Our team is happy to assist with insurance verification and determine if any coverage may be possible.
Deciding if Chin Lipo and Buccal Fat Removal is Right for You
Ultimately the decision to pursue facial rejuvenation procedures is a very personal one. Patients should carefully consider their motivations and goals to determine if surgery is appropriate at this point in life. Having realistic expectations about results is also important.
Seeking a consultation with Dr. Smith can help patients make informed decisions about whether surgical chin or cheek sculpting procedures could help them meet their aesthetic goals. He provides expert guidance and an honest opinion about what outcomes a patient can expect.
Some key things we recommend patients ponder before surgery include:
- Am I in a good place emotionally and willing to follow all post-op care instructions?
- Do I have a healthy body image and appropriate motivations for surgery?
- Have I given non-surgical options a fair try before considering an invasive procedure?
- Do I understand the limitations and risks involved with these surgical procedures?
Taking time to reflect with self-compassion can help determine if surgery is the right choice at a given point in one’s self-care journey.
Concluding Thoughts
We hope this article has provided a comprehensive overview of chin and buccal fat removal procedures for those interested in facial contouring and rejuvenation.
Our practice is led by double board-certified expert Dr. Darren Smith MD offers exceptional surgical care for those who wish to enhance their profiles and achieve a beautifully balanced, youthful look.
Please reach out for a consultation to learn more about your candidacy and options. We look forward to helping patients explore their options on the path to increased confidence and self-assuredness.
