What Is Buccal Fat Removal (Bichectomy)?
Bichectomy is an aesthetic procedure that removes the Bichat fat pads—deep fat compartments located in the lower cheeks. These fat pads are more prominent in some people and can contribute to a full, rounded facial appearance even in those with an otherwise slim body.
Through bichectomy:
- The lower face appears more contoured and slim
- The cheekbones become more prominent
- The face achieves a more V-shaped appearance
- Overall facial harmony and a youthful, dynamic look are improved
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Bichectomy is suitable for individuals who:
- Have full or chubby cheeks that make their face appear round or heavy
- Want to enhance the definition of their cheekbones and jawline
- Desire a slimmer face without significant weight loss
- Are between 20–40 years old with good skin elasticity
- Seek a subtle but impactful aesthetic improvement with minimal downtime
Note: It is not recommended for individuals with already thin or angular faces or those at risk for future volume loss.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- Typically done under local anesthesia
- A 1–1.5 cm incision is made on the inside of each cheek
- The Bichat fat pads (about 3–6 grams per side) are gently removed
- The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches
- Procedure time: 30–45 minutes
There are no external scars, and the procedure is performed entirely intraorally.
Recovery Process
- Mild swelling, tightness, and discomfort for the first 2–3 days
- Apply cold compresses and take prescribed medications
- Eat soft foods for the first 3–5 days
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene with antiseptic mouthwash after meals
- Return to normal activities in 7–10 days
- Final results become noticeable within 1–2 months
What Are the Benefits?
- Scar-free, discreet facial contouring
- Short procedure with minimal downtime
- Long-lasting and natural results
- Enhances cheekbone definition
- Removes stubborn lower cheek fullness not affected by weight loss
- Can be combined with chin fillers, jawline contouring, or Botox
Who Should Avoid Bichectomy?
- Individuals with naturally slim or angular faces
- Older patients with low skin elasticity
- Those with signs of age-related facial volume loss
- Smokers or those with poor healing capacity
- Anyone seeking an unrealistic or overly dramatic change
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Once removed, buccal fat does not regenerate, making the results long-lasting.
No. The procedure is performed from inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars.
Most patients return to normal life within 7–10 days, with full results seen in 1–2 months.
If performed on the wrong candidate (e.g., very slim faces), it may lead to a hollow or aged appearance over time.
In some cases, combining it with chin augmentation or cheek fillers may yield more balanced results.
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