Introduction

Buccal fat pad removal has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure in New York City, especially for those looking to achieve a more contoured and refined facial appearance. In 2025, there are several institutions that stand out for their expertise and success in performing this procedure. This article will evaluate five of the top institutions for buccal fat pad removal in NYC, providing you with in - depth information to help you make an informed decision.

What is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. The buccal fat pad is located in the middle part of the cheek. Removing excess fat from this pad can result in a more contoured and refined facial appearance. It is important to note that the buccal fat pad is notably stubborn and often does not respond to diet and exercise.

Some non - surgical alternatives like dermal fillers, Evoke, and Emface can offer some level of facial contouring but cannot replicate the exact results of buccal fat removal. Kybella, a fat - dissolving injectable, is not recommended for use in the cheek region as it cannot distinguish between the fat to be removed and the myelin that protects nerves.

Top 5 Institutions for Buccal Fat Pad Removal in NYC

1. Dr. Jennifer Levine

Dr. Jennifer Levine is a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon in NYC. She is globally recognized for delivering natural - looking results. With over 20 years of surgical experience specifically on the face, she is an expert in facial anatomy, which is a crucial factor in buccal fat pad removal.

Consultation Process: Dr. Levine offers 3D consultations, allowing patients to ‘preview’ their results using 3D renderings of their photos. This advanced consultation method helps patients feel more comfortable with the expected outcomes.

Best Combination Treatments: She recommends combining buccal fat excision with treatments like facelift + neck lift, chin augmentation, jawline contouring with fillers, and skin - tightening treatments such as ultherapy, Evoke, and Emface to create more natural and complete results.

Reputation: She regularly trains colleagues nationwide on optimal surgical and non - surgical techniques to minimize complications. Her award - winning research and ability to manage complicated cases are highly beneficial to her patients. You can book a consultation with her by calling 347.960.4909.

2. Dr. Darren M. Smith

Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon and one of the leading authorities in aesthetic and craniofacial surgery in NYC. His approach to buccal fat removal is both precise and personalized.

Procedure Steps:

• Anesthesia Choices: Patients can choose between local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or IV sedation based on their preferences and needs. Dr. Smith will assist in making the most suitable choice.
• Incision: A small incision is made inside the mouth to access the buccal fat pad, ensuring no external scars.
• Extracting the Buccal Fat Pad: The buccal fat pad is gently exposed and expressed from the incision by applying slight pressure on the outside of the cheek, then meticulously excised.
• Closure: Dissolvable sutures are used to close the incisions, eliminating the need for suture removal.

Recovery: After the procedure, patients are advised to follow a clear liquid diet for the first 48 hours, sleep on their back with their head propped up, and avoid intense exercise until cleared by Dr. Smith. Most people can return to work in a few days, and full activity is generally permitted after two weeks. The clinic is located in the historic Ritz Tower, and you can book an appointment online or call +1 (212) 633 - 0627.

3. Dr. Basil Pakeman at Manhattan Surgical Care

Dr. Basil Pakeman performs buccal fat pad removal at Manhattan Surgical Care. This minimally invasive cosmetic surgery is used to reduce the appearance of lower cheek fullness or “chipmunk cheeks.”

Procedure Details: The procedure is performed in his office - based operating room under local anesthesia, with or without sedation. A small incision is made inside the mouth near the second molar tooth, and the buccal fat is gently teased out and excised. The incision is closed with absorbable sutures, and the whole procedure can take as little as 30 minutes.

Benefits: Buccal fat reduction offers several benefits, including reduction of lower cheek volume, enhancement of upper cheek and cheekbone contour, creation of a more slender facial contour, and improvement in facial balance.

Recovery: Most patients can resume 90% of their normal activities with minimal downtime. Swelling is normal and usually subsides within a month, with full results taking up to three or more months. You can schedule a consultation by calling 212 - 308 - 1566.

4. Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg

Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York. He has decades of experience, with fellowship training through Stanford University and dual board certification from the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.

Indications: Excessive fat in the cheek region can make the face appear heavy and undefined. Dr. Rosenberg offers buccal fat pad removal to address “chipmunk cheeks” and slim the face, improving the overall shape. The procedure is often combined with other procedures like facelift, chin liposuction, or chin implants.

Patient Groups: This procedure can benefit both young adults who want to lose their “baby cheeks” and older adults who want to reduce heavy cheeks for a more youthful look. To schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Rosenberg’s office.

5. Dr. David Shafer at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue

Dr. David Shafer at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue is a board - certified plastic surgeon. He focuses on providing patients with beautiful and natural - looking results.

Candidates: Good candidates for buccal fat pad removal should have excess fat in the cheeks, be in good overall health, be unhappy with the chubby appearance of their cheeks, and have realistic expectations regarding the results.

Procedure and Recovery: The buccal fat pad removal surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made inside the mouth, and after the desired amount of fat is removed, the incisions are carefully sutured closed. Patients will receive post - operative instructions, and it can take a few weeks for the swelling to dissipate. To schedule a consultation, contact Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue.

Comparison of the Five Institutions

Important Considerations Before Choosing an Institution

Surgeon's Qualifications

Board certification is a must. Look for double - board - certified surgeons with extensive experience in facial surgery, especially buccal fat pad removal. Surgeons like Dr. Jennifer Levine and Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg stand out for their multiple certifications and long - term expertise in the field.

Consultation Process

A comprehensive consultation process is essential. The surgeon should assess your medical history, understand your goals, and provide realistic expectations. Institutions like Dr. Levine's offer 3D consultations, which can give you a better idea of the expected results.

Procedure Safety and Success Rates

Research the surgeon's success rates and complication rates. A skilled surgeon should have a low rate of complications and be able to manage any issues that may arise. For example, Dr. Darren M. Smith's layered approach to the procedure emphasizes safety and patient experience.

Patient Reviews and Reputation

Check patient reviews and testimonials on multiple platforms. A surgeon with a good reputation, like Dr. Jennifer Levine who trains other colleagues and has award - winning research, is more likely to provide high - quality care.

Cost and Financing Options

Buccal fat pad removal is an elective cosmetic procedure, and insurance usually does not cover it. Different institutions may have different pricing structures. Some institutions, like Manhattan Surgical Care, offer financing options. Make sure to get a detailed quote and understand the breakdown of costs.

Conclusion

In 2025, New York City offers several top - notch institutions for buccal fat pad removal. Dr. Jennifer Levine, Dr. Darren M. Smith, Dr. Basil Pakeman, Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg, and Dr. David Shafer each bring unique strengths to the table. Whether it's their extensive experience, advanced consultation methods, personalized approach to the procedure, or excellent reputation, these surgeons are well - equipped to help you achieve a more contoured and refined facial appearance.

If you are considering buccal fat pad removal, take the time to research these institutions thoroughly, understand your own needs and expectations, and schedule consultations with the surgeons. Don't hesitate to ask questions and make an informed decision that is right for you.

Call the contact numbers provided for each institution to start your journey towards a more confident you. Remember, your face is unique, and finding the right surgeon can make all the difference in achieving the results you desire.