What is buccal fat removal?
Everyone has a buccal fat pad, a pocket of fat in the lower cheek between the cheekbone and the jaw. In some people it is naturally large, so the face looks round or "chubby" even at a healthy weight, and dieting does not change it.
Buccal fat removal (also called buccal lipectomy or cheek reduction) removes a measured portion of this fat pad. The goal is not a hollow face but a gentle contour under the cheekbones that makes the face look slimmer and more defined.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults in good health whose lower cheeks look full even at a stable, healthy weight
- People who want a slimmer, more contoured face without visible scars
- Non-smokers, or patients willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
- Patients with realistic expectations about a subtle, natural change
It is usually not recommended if your face is already thin or naturally narrow, because faces lose some volume with age. Dr. La'O assesses your facial structure at consultation and will tell you honestly if the procedure is not right for you.
How the procedure is done
The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and takes only about 15 to 20 minutes. A small incision is made on the inside of each cheek, the buccal fat is gently brought out, a measured amount is removed, and the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches. Because everything is done through the mouth, there are no scars on the face.
Buccal fat removal is often combined with submental liposuction (under-chin lipo) or other facial procedures for a more balanced result. Your plan is designed during your consultation.
Recovery and aftercare
- Swelling is expected for the first 1 to 2 weeks, so the face may look fuller before it looks slimmer
- Soft foods and careful mouth rinses for the first several days while the incisions heal
- Most patients return to work or school within a few days
- Avoid strenuous exercise for about 1 to 2 weeks, or as advised
- The final contour appears gradually over about 3 to 6 months
You will receive written aftercare instructions and follow-up visits are included in your rate.
Risks and safety
Like any surgery, buccal fat removal has risks. These include swelling, bruising, infection, bleeding, asymmetry, and removing too much fat, which can make the face look hollow as you age. Rarely, nearby structures such as the salivary duct or small branches of the facial nerve can be affected.
Choosing a fellowship-trained surgeon, being honest about your medical history and following aftercare instructions closely are the best ways to lower these risks. Dr. La'O will explain each risk in detail at your consultation.
Buccal fat removal cost in the Philippines
At Spectra, buccal fat removal is ₱20,000 to ₱35,000. The rate typically includes consultation, the doctor's fee, anesthesia if applicable, medications and follow-up care. The exact amount depends on your facial assessment and whether it is combined with other procedures.
Rates at Spectra
- Buccal Fat Removal₱20,000 – ₱35,000
Promotional rate. Your final quote is confirmed at consultation.
