Can Cosmetic Surgery Improve Chubby Cheeks?

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The quick answer to this question is “yes,” but don’t stop reading yet.

If you have very chubby cheeks, you should know that facial fat removal is possible, and some plastic surgeons will do it for the right candidate. But today, most physicians advise against the procedure termed buccal fat pad removal. (It’s pronounced “buckle,” not “boo-cal.”)

Why?

There are three main reasons cosmetic surgeons cite for discouraging patients from seeking buccal fat pad removal. The first and overwhelmingly most compelling reason is that you’ll want that extra fat when you’re older.

In fact, not too many years ago plastic surgeons were more open to excising fat from chubby cheeks. But they noticed that as the years passed, these post-surgical patients looked more gaunt and aged than they should have. Losing fat from beneath surface skin happens to everyone as they get older, and facial fillers and even fat injections only go so far to restore a more youthful look.

Today, most surgeons advise women to hang onto facial fat. It can be repositioned with a facelift if it sags, but it’s hard to replace once it’s gone.

There are other reasons to reject the idea of facial fat reduction. Some surgeons feel that even though a very round face can look a little more sculpted after surgery, the improvement is usually minimal and not worth the eventual downside. Some also say that there’s potential for asymmetries and an “out of proportion” look—minor problems in, for example, breast surgery, but magnified when they occur on the face.

So, what can you do if you feel your face is extremely round and you long to do something about it?

First, if you are overweight, this could be the motivation you need to shed some pounds. Weight loss is very often reflected in the face—you could be surprised at the improvement you’ll see if you drop even a few pounds.

Next, you can consider consulting a board certified plastic surgeon who focuses on facial surgery. Find a physician who will evaluate your entire face, taking measurements and even X-rays to get a close look at your bone structure. It could be that you might benefit from a chin implant or even cheek implants to improve definition.

Also know that if you have excess fat along the jowl line or neck, it can be removed. A little liposuction performed along the jaw line and under the chin can make a dramatic difference in how youthful you look.

If you feel your case of chubby cheeks is extreme, you can find a plastic surgeon who will perform buccal fat pad removal. But if you choose this option, be conservative about how much is taken. You don’t want to be back on your doctor’s doorstep in just a few years wishing you had made a different decision.

Reference:

http://www.realself.com/question/buccal-fat-pad-removal

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.