Introduction
Cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting have become increasingly popular cosmetic procedures in New York City. These procedures aim to enhance facial contours, reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks, and create a more defined and youthful look. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals selected by netizens for cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting in NYC, as well as provide in - depth information about the procedure itself.
What is Cheek Fat Pad Repositioning and Lifting?
Definition of Buccal Fat Pad
The buccal fat pad is a mass of fat that accumulates in the middle of the cheeks below the cheekbones. It fills the hollow area of the cheeks and makes a face appear fuller. Everyone has buccal fat pads, but some people have larger ones, resulting in a round or chubby - faced appearance.
The Procedure
Cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting, also known as buccal fat removal or buccal lipectomy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery. The procedure involves making a small incision inside the mouth, usually near the second upper molar. Through this incision, the surgeon carefully removes or repositions the buccal fat pad. A suture is then used to close the incision, and since the cut is made from inside the mouth, there are typically no visible scars on the face.
Benefits of Cheek Fat Pad Repositioning and Lifting
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduction of Lower Cheek Volume | Removing or repositioning the buccal fat pad can significantly reduce the fullness in the lower cheeks, giving the face a slimmer appearance. |
| Enhancement of Cheekbone Contour | With less volume in the lower cheeks, the cheekbones become more prominent, creating a more defined and angular facial structure. |
| Triangulation of Facial Shape | The procedure can help create a more triangular facial shape, which is often considered more attractive and youthful. |
| Improvement in Facial Proportions | It can bring better balance to the face, especially in terms of the upper - to - lower cheek ratio. |
| For Men: Chiseled Jawline and Cheeks | It can give men a more masculine and chiseled look to their jawline and cheeks. |
| For Women: Sculpted Lower Facial Contour | Women can achieve a more feminine and sculpted lower facial contour. |
Ideal Candidates for Cheek Fat Pad Repositioning and Lifting
- Excess Fat in Cheeks: Individuals with excessive fullness in the lower cheek area, such as those with chubby cheeks or “chipmunk cheeks,” are good candidates.
- Good Overall Health: They should be in good physical and mental health to undergo the surgery and recover properly.
- Realistic Expectations: Patients need to have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. It won't completely change one's face structure but will enhance facial contours.
- Age Range: Patients from their 20s to their 60s can potentially benefit from the procedure, with those in their late 20s to early 40s being common candidates.
- Stable Weight: Being at or near their goal weight is important, as significant weight fluctuations after the surgery can affect the results.
Top Hospitals in New York City for Cheek Fat Pad Repositioning and Lifting
Manhattan Surgical Care
Manhattan Surgical Care offers buccal fat pad removal performed by Dr. Pakeman. The procedure is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery that can reduce the appearance of lower cheek fullness. Dr. Pakeman has experience in performing this procedure and ensures that patients reach their desired results while maintaining a natural facial shape. The entire procedure can take as little as 30 minutes to complete, and the recovery time is minimal. They also provide detailed consultation services to help patients determine if they are suitable candidates for the procedure.
Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue
At Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Shafer focuses on providing patients with beautiful and natural - looking results. Buccal fat removal surgery here can be done alone or combined with other cosmetic facial procedures. During the initial consultation, Dr. Shafer will assess the patient's current health, medical history, and goals for the procedure. The surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia, and the incisions are made along the inside of the mouth, leaving no visible post - surgical marks after full recovery.
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a well - regarded plastic surgeon. His buccal fat pad removal procedure in New York eliminates cheek fullness and provides a sculpted, angular appearance. He is ranked among the top plastic surgeons in NYC. The procedure is a simple outpatient one that quickly and permanently resolves middle and lower cheek fullness. Dr. Steinbrech has a brilliant team of caring staff members to support the patients throughout the process. He also offers a personalized consultation to set realistic expectations for the results.
Albert Plastic Surgery
Dr. Mark G. Albert MD, FACS at Albert Plastic Surgery has extensive experience with facial plastic surgery. He works closely with patients to ensure that the outcome of the buccal fat pad removal in NYC meets or surpasses their expectations. The procedure only takes about an hour to complete in their NYC office. Dr. Albert makes incisions on the inside of the mouth, and the recovery period is relatively short, with swelling subsiding within two to three weeks.
Dr. Jeffrey Lisiecki
Dr. Jeffrey Lisiecki performs a highly personalized buccal fat pad removal in NYC. He tailors each surgical plan according to the patient's unique goals and anatomical considerations. The procedure is performed at his state - of - the - art surgical center under general anesthesia or under sedation with local anesthesia. After the surgery, patients are given specific aftercare guidelines, including rinsing the mouth with special mouthwash and following a soft diet for a week.
Kassir Plastic Surgery
Dr. Kassir is a leading plastic surgeon who performs buccal fat removals in his NJ and NYC offices. His buccal fat removal procedure has instant results, no recovery time, and hidden evidence from the procedure. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after surgery. The procedure is done by extracting fat from the cheek through the inside of the mouth, and the results are both instant and permanent.
Gotham Plastic Surgery
At Gotham Plastic Surgery, Dr. Philip Miller performs buccal fat excision on an outpatient basis. Local or general anesthesia may be used. The procedure involves making a small incision on the inside of the mouth, removing the fat pad, and closing the incision. Recovery following buccal fat excision takes just a few days, with minimal swelling and no bruising. They also provide detailed information through before - and - after photos of their patients.
Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery specializes in buccal fat removal. The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with or without sedation and takes about one hour to complete. Dr. Zuckerman provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results. The results of the procedure are permanent, and patients can achieve a more sculpted and aesthetically pleasing facial contour.
The Procedure Process
Consultation
The first step is the consultation. During this stage, the patient meets with the plastic surgeon. The surgeon will ask about the patient's medical history, current health, and reasons for wanting the procedure. They will also examine the patient's face to assess the amount of buccal fat and determine if the patient is a suitable candidate. The surgeon will show before - and - after photos of previous patients to help the patient set realistic expectations.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, the patient may be required to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding during the procedure. They may also need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery. Some surgeons may also recommend getting some pre - operative tests done, such as blood tests.
The Surgery
Most cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis. The patient is given anesthesia, which can be local anesthesia with or without sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon then makes a small incision inside the mouth, accesses the buccal fat pad, and either removes or repositions it. Once the desired result is achieved, the incision is closed with sutures.
Recovery
- Immediate Post - operative: After the surgery, the patient may experience some swelling and mild discomfort. Ice can be applied to the face to reduce swelling, and over - the - counter pain medications may be taken as prescribed. The patient may also be required to follow a soft diet for a few days to avoid putting too much pressure on the incision site.
- Short - term Recovery: Swelling usually subsides within a few weeks. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a few days to a week. However, strenuous exercise and activities should be avoided for one to two weeks.
- Long - term Recovery: The final results of the procedure may take a few months to fully settle in. The patient should continue to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions, such as using sunscreen and a good facial moisturizer, to maintain the results.
Risks and Limitations
Risks
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, especially due to the intraoral incisions. Patients need to maintain good oral hygiene and follow the post - operative care guidelines to minimize this risk.
- Bleeding and Hematoma: Some patients may experience post - surgical bleeding or the formation of hematomas. These are usually minor but may require medical attention if excessive.
- Nerve Damage: There is a potential for temporary or permanent facial nerve injury, which could lead to altered sensation or muscle weakness in the cheek area.
- Asymmetry: Minor asymmetry can occur due to natural variations in facial structure or uneven fat removal. Experienced surgeons take care to achieve balanced and symmetric results.
- Excessive Hollowing: In some cases, excessive fat removal can lead to a gaunt appearance. Proper candidate selection is vital to prevent this.
Limitations
- Aging Effects: As the face naturally loses volume with age, removing too much buccal fat may result in a prematurely aged appearance. Patients with a naturally thin face should be cautious.
- Not for Significant Weight Loss: This procedure is not intended for comprehensive weight reduction. Patients who are overweight should consider achieving a stable weight before undergoing surgery.
- Complementary Procedures: Some patients may require complementary procedures, such as liposuction, chin augmentation, or a facelift, to achieve optimal results and maintain facial balance.
- Long - term Changes: Although the removed fat does not grow back, significant weight gain or loss can affect overall facial appearance.
Cost Considerations
The cost of cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting in New York City can vary widely. It depends on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, and the facility where the surgery is performed. On average, the cost of buccal fat removal surgery in New York ranges from $7,000 to $8,000, but this amount can be affected by additional costs such as anesthesia fees, facility fees, pre - op and post - op care instructions. It is important for patients to discuss all potential costs with their plastic surgeon during the consultation.
Conclusion
Cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City that can help individuals achieve a more defined and youthful facial appearance. There are several top - notch hospitals and experienced plastic surgeons in NYC that offer this procedure. However, it is crucial for patients to thoroughly understand the procedure, its benefits, risks, and limitations before making a decision. During the consultation process, patients should ask questions, review the surgeon's credentials and patient testimonials, and view before - and - after photos to ensure they are in good hands.
If you are considering cheek fat pad repositioning and lifting, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the recommended hospitals or surgeons in this article. Take the time to learn more about the procedure and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with your friends and family who may also be interested in enhancing their facial contours!
