Introduction
Cheek fat pad removal, also known as buccal fat removal or cheek reduction surgery, has gained significant popularity in New York City as a way to achieve a more contoured and slender facial appearance. This minimally - invasive cosmetic procedure involves removing excess fat from the buccal fat pads located in the middle part of the cheeks. In this article, we will evaluate the top five selected doctors in New York City for cheek fat pad removal, considering factors such as their expertise, experience, patient reviews, and approach to the procedure.
Understanding Cheek Fat Pad Removal
What is Cheek Fat Pad Removal?
Cheek fat pad removal is a surgical procedure designed to thin the cheeks by taking out the extra fat in the buccal fat pads. This fat pad is placed in the middle of the cheek. Removing it can lead to a more sculpted and refined facial look. The procedure is often done through a small incision inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars on the face.
Non - surgical Alternatives
Although there are no non - surgical methods that can exactly replicate the results of buccal fat removal, there are some non - invasive face contouring treatments. Dermal fillers can create the illusion of more sculpted cheeks, reducing the prominence of the buccal fat pads. Evoke and Emface use radiofrequency and electromagnetic stimulation to lift and tighten facial tissue. However, Evoke is most effective when combined with buccal fat removal surgery, not as a substitute. Kybella, a fat - dissolving injectable, is not recommended for the cheek region as the cheek is a nerve - rich area, and Kybella can't distinguish between the fat to be removed and the fat that protects nerves.
Combination Treatments
Combining buccal fat excision with other treatments can provide more natural and complete results. Popular combination treatments include facelift + neck lift, which can rejuvenate the face by addressing sagging skin and creating a tighter appearance. Chin augmentation, either with a surgical chin implant or cosmetic filler, can balance facial proportions. Jawline contouring with fillers can further define the face, and skin - tightening treatments like Ultherapy, Evoke, and Emface can complement buccal fat removal by adding volume and contouring different areas of the face.
Evaluation of the Top Five Doctors
Dr. Jennifer Levine
Credentials
Dr. Jennifer Levine is a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City. Her dual board certification reflects her high level of expertise in facial plastic surgery. She has over 20 years of surgical experience specifically on the face, making her an expert in facial anatomy.
Approach to Buccal Fat Removal
Dr. Levine emphasizes the importance of achieving natural - looking results. She offers 3D consultations, which allow patients to 'preview' their expected results using 3D renderings of their photos. This technological advancement gives patients a better understanding of what they can expect from the procedure.
Reputation and Reviews
Dr. Levine has a great reputation both locally and globally. She regularly trains colleagues nationwide and internally on optimal surgical and non - surgical techniques to minimize complications and deliver natural - looking results. Her award - winning research also adds to her credibility in the field.
Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg
Credentials
Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York. He has fellowship training through Stanford University and dual board certification by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.
Approach to Buccal Fat Removal
He has extensive experience working with patients to achieve the desired effect through plastic surgery. For those with chubby or fatty cheeks, he often combines buccal fat pad removal with other procedures such as facelift, chin liposuction, or chin implants to create a more balanced facial appearance.
Reputation and Reviews
Dr. Rosenberg's dedication to creating phenomenal results for his patients is unmatched. He has spent decades honing his craft, changing the lives of his patients for the better, which has earned him a solid reputation in the New York City area.
Dr. Philip Miller
Credentials
Dr. Philip Miller is a highly regarded double - board certified facial plastic surgeon and artist. His dual certification and artistic skills contribute to his ability to offer world - class rejuvenation procedures in New York City.
Approach to Buccal Fat Removal
Dr. Miller can perform buccal fat removal surgery in a way that reduces fullness in the lower cheek. He also offers a variety of face - slimming procedures that can be combined for optimal results, such as Botox for jaw reduction, G.I. Jaw, fillers, and chin implants.
Reputation and Reviews
He is well - known for helping patients achieve beautiful, natural - looking results. His expertise in multiple facial rejuvenation procedures makes him a top choice for those seeking comprehensive facial slimming solutions.
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech
Credentials
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. He has been ranked in the top 10 plastic surgeons in NYC and was selected among America’s top plastic surgeons by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Approach to Buccal Fat Removal
Dr. Steinbrech performs buccal fat pad removal as a simple outpatient procedure. He takes great care to ensure a quick recovery time and natural - looking results. The procedure is done through a small incision inside the mouth, and he walks patients through all aspects of the process, from the initial consultation to post - operative care.
Reputation and Reviews
Patients often praise Dr. Steinbrech for his personalized care. He follows up with patients after surgery, calling them to check on their well - being. His reputation for achieving excellent results in buccal fat removal and other facial plastic surgeries is well - established.
Dr. Maurice Khosh
Credentials
Dr. Maurice Khosh is a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon. His dual certification attests to his proficiency in facial plastic surgery techniques.
Approach to Buccal Fat Removal
He offers buccal fat removal for cheek reduction and facial liposculpture. He can perform the surgery using local anesthesia, which reduces risk and allows for a quicker recovery. The incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars.
Reputation and Reviews
Dr. Khosh is highly respected in the field. He helps patients determine if cheek reduction is the right procedure for them based on their individual needs and goals. His patients often report satisfaction with the more contoured and chiseled appearance they achieve after the surgery.
Comparing the Doctors
Expertise and Experience
All five doctors have extensive experience and high - level expertise in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Jennifer Levine's 20+ years of facial surgery experience gives her in - depth knowledge of facial anatomy. Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg's fellowship training from Stanford and dual board certification make him well - versed in facial plastic and reconstructive techniques. Dr. Philip Miller's artistic skills combined with his double - board certification allow him to offer comprehensive facial slimming solutions. Dr. Douglas Steinbrech's top - ranked position among NYC plastic surgeons and his experience in performing buccal fat removal as an outpatient procedure showcase his proficiency. Dr. Maurice Khosh's double - board certification and experience in using local anesthesia for buccal fat removal demonstrate his specialized skills.
Technological and Surgical Approaches
Dr. Levine's 3D consultations are a unique technological advantage that helps patients visualize their results. Dr. Rosenberg often combines buccal fat removal with other procedures for a more balanced outcome. Dr. Miller offers a wide range of complementary face - slimming procedures. Dr. Steinbrech's simple outpatient approach for buccal fat removal emphasizes quick recovery. Dr. Khosh's use of local anesthesia for the surgery reduces risks and speeds up the recovery process.
Patient Reviews and Reputation
All doctors have positive patient reviews and good reputations. Dr. Levine is globally recognized for her natural - looking results and research contributions. Dr. Rosenberg is known for his dedication to patient care and long - standing reputation in the field. Dr. Miller is highly regarded for his ability to achieve beautiful, comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Dr. Steinbrech's personalized follow - up care after surgery earns him high praise from patients. Dr. Khosh is respected for his patient - centric approach in determining the right procedure for each individual.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor
Board Certification
Board certification is crucial as it indicates that the doctor has met certain standards of education, training, and experience. All the doctors in our top five list are board - certified, which is a good sign of their competence.
Experience with Buccal Fat Removal
The more experience a doctor has with buccal fat removal, the better the chances of achieving satisfactory results. Look for doctors who have performed a significant number of these procedures and can show before - and - after photos of their patients.
Consultation Process
A good consultation process is essential. The doctor should take the time to understand your goals, explain the procedure in detail, and address any concerns you may have. Some doctors, like Dr. Levine, offer advanced consultation methods such as 3D consultations.
Reputation and Reviews
Check patient reviews on multiple platforms to get an idea of the doctor's reputation. Positive reviews, patient testimonials, and the doctor's involvement in the aesthetic community are all good indicators of a doctor's quality of care.
Potential Risks and Limitations of Cheek Fat Pad Removal
Risks
As with any surgical procedure, cheek fat pad removal has potential risks. These include infection, bleeding, swelling, scarring, nerve damage, asymmetry, and excessive hollowing. However, when performed by an experienced board - certified surgeon, the risks can be minimized.
Limitations
Cheek fat pad removal is not suitable for significant weight loss. It may also lead to a prematurely aged appearance if too much fat is removed, especially in patients with a naturally thin face. Some patients may require complementary procedures to achieve optimal results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top five doctors for cheek fat pad removal in New York City in 2025 - Dr. Jennifer Levine, Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg, Dr. Philip Miller, Dr. Douglas Steinbrech, and Dr. Maurice Khosh - all have their unique strengths. They possess high - level expertise, experience, and positive reputations in the field of facial plastic surgery. When considering cheek fat pad removal, it is essential to thoroughly research each doctor, considering factors such as their credentials, approach to the procedure, and patient reviews.
If you are interested in cheek fat pad removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these top - rated doctors. Discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision that will help you achieve the facial slimming results you desire. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning about cheek fat pad removal in New York City.