Public release of the well - reputed list of hospitals for buccal fat pad removal for face - slimming in New York City! 2025

Introduction

Buccal fat pad removal has emerged as a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City for those seeking a more contoured and slimmer face. The presence of excessive buccal fat can lead to a round or “chipmunk - cheeked” appearance, and removing this fat can enhance facial definition. In this article, we will explore the procedure, its benefits, ideal candidates, as well as introduce some well - reputed hospitals and surgeons in New York City for buccal fat pad removal.

What is Buccal Fat Pad and Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Buccal Fat Pad

The buccal fat pad, also known as Bichat’s fat pad, is a deep - seated fat deposit located between the cheekbone and the jawline. It is present in everyone and varies in size from person to person. In some individuals, it can be relatively large, contributing to a full or rounded facial appearance. This fat is different from the superficial fat in the face and is encapsulated underneath the facial muscles.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Buccal fat pad removal, also called buccal lipectomy or bichectomy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery. It involves making a small incision inside the back of the mouth, typically across from the upper molars. Through this incision, a portion of the buccal fat pad is carefully removed. Since the incision is made inside the mouth, there are usually no visible scars on the face or cheeks. The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation, and can take as little as 30 minutes to complete.

Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Removal

• Reduction of Lower Cheek Volume: Removing the buccal fat pad can significantly reduce the fullness in the lower cheeks, giving a more refined look.
• Enhancement of Cheekbone Contour: As the lower cheek hollows out, the cheekbones can appear more prominent and defined.
• Improvement in Facial Shape: It can help in achieving a more triangular and balanced facial shape, making the face look slimmer and more elegant.
• Youthful and Sophisticated Appearance: For those with a “baby face” due to chubby cheeks, buccal fat removal can create a more mature and sophisticated look.
• Permanent Results: Once the buccal fat is removed, it does not grow back, providing long - lasting results.

Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Physical Criteria

• People in their late 20s to early 30s are often ideal candidates as their facial structure has generally matured. By this age, the natural reduction of buccal fat that occurs with aging may not have happened, or there may still be an excessive amount of fat in the cheeks.
• Individuals who are at or near their goal weight. Excess weight in the face due to overall obesity is not typically addressed by buccal fat removal alone. It is best for those with genetically determined or disproportionate buccal fat.
• Those with excessive fullness in the lower cheek area, “chipmunk cheeks,” or a round face that they are unhappy with.

Health and Lifestyle

• Candidates should be in good general health. A pre - surgical evaluation will assess their overall well - being, including their medical history, to ensure they can safely undergo the procedure.
• Non - smokers are preferred as smoking can irritate the oral tissues and may affect the healing process after the surgery.
• They should have realistic expectations about the results. Buccal fat removal can enhance facial contour, but it will not completely change one's face structure.

The Procedure: How Buccal Fat Pad Removal is Performed

Pre - procedure

• Consultation: The first step is an initial consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this meeting, the surgeon will discuss the patient's aesthetic goals, examine the face, and assess the amount of buccal fat present. The patient should also provide information about their medical history, current medications, and any allergies.
• Decision on Anesthesia: The surgeon and the patient will decide on the type of anesthesia. Local anesthesia is commonly used, which numbs the area of the cheeks. In some cases, sedation (oral or IV) may be added to help the patient relax during the procedure. General anesthesia may be an option for patients who prefer to be completely asleep.

During the Procedure

• Incision: A small incision is made inside the mouth, usually near the second molar tooth. The size of the incision is typically under an inch.
• Removal of Fat: The surgeon gently teases out the buccal fat from its compartment and excises the appropriate amount to achieve the desired contour. They take care to maintain symmetry between the two cheeks.
• Closure: Once the fat is removed and the desired contour is achieved, the incision is closed with absorbable sutures. These sutures dissolve over time, so there is no need for suture removal.

Post - procedure

• Recovery Room: After the procedure, the patient is taken to a recovery room where they are monitored until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. They may experience some mild soreness and swelling in the cheeks.
• Recovery Instructions: The surgeon will provide detailed post - operative instructions. This may include dietary restrictions (such as avoiding hot foods and liquids in the first 6 hours to prevent burns in the numbed mouth), oral hygiene instructions, and how to manage swelling and pain. The patient may be advised to wear a facial compression garment and sleep with the head of the bed elevated to reduce swelling.

Recovery Process

Immediate Post - surgery

Swelling is normal after buccal fat pad removal and may be more pronounced in the first few days. The cheeks may appear even rounder than before initially, but this is a temporary effect. There may also be mild soreness or discomfort, which can be managed with over - the - counter pain medications and cold compresses.

First Week

Most patients can resume 90% of their normal activities within a few days. However, strenuous exercise and activities should be avoided for one to two weeks. Dietary restrictions may gradually be lifted, but patients are often advised to stick to a soft - foods diet in the early days to avoid irritating the incisions. Bruising is rare as the incision is inside the mouth, but if it occurs, it usually resolves within a few days.

Longer - term

Patients should start to see thinning in the cheeks within a month. The full results may take up to three or more months to fully settle in as the swelling completely subsides. Some patients may experience a longer period of significant swelling, which can last up to one week in about 10% of cases.

Potential Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Swelling: Swelling is a normal part of the recovery process but can be more severe in some cases. Following the surgeon's post - procedure instructions, such as wearing a compression garment and keeping the head elevated, can help reduce swelling.
• Bruising: Although uncommon, some bruising may occur, especially if the patient is taking medications or supplements that increase the risk of bleeding.

Rare Complications

• Bleeding: There is a small risk of post - surgical bleeding, which may require medical attention.
• Poor Healing: Factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions, or improper post - operative care can lead to poor healing of the incisions.
• Scarring: While the incisions are inside the mouth and visible scarring on the face is rare, there may be some internal scarring that could potentially affect the facial muscles or the appearance of the mouth.
• Prolonged Swelling: In some cases, swelling may persist for longer than expected, which could be due to individual healing factors or complications.
• Asymmetry: There is a risk of uneven fat removal, resulting in an asymmetrical appearance of the cheeks. An experienced surgeon will take great care to ensure symmetry during the procedure.

Well - Reputed Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Manhattan Surgical Care

Manhattan Surgical Care offers buccal fat pad removal performed by Dr. Pakeman. Dr. Pakeman is an experienced cosmetic surgeon who ensures that patients reach their desired results while maintaining a natural facial shape. The procedure at this facility is a minimally invasive one, and the recovery time is minimal. Patients can contact them at 212 - 308 - 1566 to schedule a consultation. They serve clients not only in New York but also nationwide.

Gotham Plastic Surgery

At Gotham Plastic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Philip Miller performs buccal fat excision. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility. They offer both local and general anesthesia options. Dr. Miller has helped many patients achieve a slimmer and more contoured face through this procedure. To find out if buccal fat removal is the right procedure for you, you can contact Gotham Plastic Surgery.

Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue

Dr. David Shafer at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue is a board - certified plastic surgeon who specializes in buccal fat pad removal. He focuses on providing patients with beautiful and natural - looking results. The procedure is an outpatient one, performed under general anesthesia, and the incisions are made inside the mouth to avoid visible scarring. Patients can schedule a consultation to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure.

Dr. Jennifer Levine's Practice

Dr. Jennifer Levine is a globally - recognized plastic surgeon who has performed tens of thousands of facial cosmetic procedures. Her buccal fat removal procedure is completed in a private operating room under local anesthesia. She often combines other treatments with buccal fat removal to achieve more comprehensive and natural - looking results. Patients can consult with her to see if they are suitable candidates for the procedure.

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech's Practice

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a highly regarded plastic surgeon in New York. He has been ranked in the top 10 plastic surgeons in NYC. His buccal fat pad removal procedure is a simple outpatient one that quickly and permanently resolves middle and lower cheek fullness. The recovery period is short, and patients can typically return to work and normal activities within 2 - 3 days. He also provides detailed pre - and post - operative care to ensure the best results.

Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg's Practice

Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York. He has extensive experience in buccal fat pad removal and often combines it with other procedures such as facelifts, chin liposuction, or chin implants. His dedication to creating phenomenal results for his patients makes him a trusted choice for those seeking facial contouring.

Dr. Joshua B. Hyman's Practice

Dr. Joshua B. Hyman is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon who performs custom buccal fat removal treatments. He serves as a clinical assistant professor of surgery at Weill Cornell Medical Center. The procedure is performed at his state - of - the - art, in - house surgical center. He offers a free consultation and focuses on delivering personalized attention, patient safety, and elegant results.

Dr. Darren M. Smith's Practice

Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon and one of the city’s leading authorities in aesthetic and craniofacial surgery. His approach to buccal fat removal is precise and personalized. The procedure can be completed in under an hour with minimal recovery time. He also provides detailed post - procedure care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Cost of Buccal Fat Pad Removal in New York City

The cost of buccal fat pad removal in New York City can vary widely. It generally ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. This cost can be affected by several factors, such as the reputation and experience of the surgeon, the complexity of the case, the type of anesthesia used, and the facility fees. Some practices may also offer financing options to help patients manage the cost.

Buccal Fat Pad Removal vs. Other Facial Contouring Procedures

Cheek Liposuction

Cheek liposuction is more suitable for localized fat removal in the subcutaneous layer of the cheeks, especially in the lower cheeks and jawline. It is best for patients with excess fat deposits in these areas. Buccal fat pad removal, on the other hand, targets the deeper buccal fat pad and is ideal for those with rounder mid - cheeks and “chipmunk cheeks.”

V - Contour Procedure

The V - contour procedure combines buccal fat removal with liposuction in the chin, jawline, and neck. It is ideal for patients seeking comprehensive facial slimming involving multiple regions. This procedure creates a harmonious V - shaped facial contour through a more comprehensive fat reduction approach compared to buccal fat removal alone.

Facelift

A facelift is a more extensive procedure that tightens the facial skin and underlying tissues through incisions placed around the ears and hairline. It addresses sagging skin and the repositioning of facial tissues for a youthful appearance. It is suited for patients primarily concerned with signs of aging and sagging skin, while buccal fat removal is focused on reducing cheek fullness and enhancing facial contour.

Conclusion

Buccal fat pad removal is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure in New York City for achieving a more contoured and slimmer face. It offers numerous benefits, including improved facial shape, enhanced cheekbone contour, and a more sophisticated appearance. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks