Introduction

Buccal fat removal has gained significant popularity in recent years as a way to achieve a more contoured and defined facial appearance. In New York City, a hub of plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments, there are numerous doctors and institutions offering this procedure. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking of doctors and institutions for resolving buccal fat pads in New York City in 2025, based on various factors such as experience, expertise, patient reviews, and more.

Ranking of doctors and institutions for resolving buccal fat pads in New York City in 2025!

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to thin the cheeks by removing excess fat from the buccal fat pad. This fat pad is located in the middle part of the cheek, and its removal can result in a more contoured and refined appearance. It is a popular method for refining a “baby face,” enhancing cheekbone definition, and slimming the face.

For individuals struggling with stubborn mid - face fullness that doesn't respond to diet or exercise, buccal fat removal provides an effective solution. By addressing excess fat in this targeted area, the procedure creates a more balanced and elegant facial profile. However, it is important to note that buccal fat is typically resistant to diet and exercise, and significant weight loss may not necessarily reduce the buccal fat pads.

Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal

Patients who undergo buccal fat removal can enjoy a variety of benefits:

Increased Jawline Definition: Removing the buccal fat pads can help to define the jawline, giving the face a more chiseled and angular look.
Contoured Cheekbones: The procedure enhances the prominence of the cheekbones, creating a more sculpted appearance.
Leaner - Looking, More Defined Face: Overall, the face appears slimmer and more defined, which can improve facial harmony and proportion.
Long - Lasting Results: Once the buccal fat is removed, the results are generally permanent, as the removed fat cells will not grow back. However, significant weight fluctuations can cause fat cells surrounding the treated areas to swell.
Efficient Procedure: Buccal fat removal is often a relatively quick procedure, usually lasting around 30 minutes.
Minimized Recovery: Since it is a minimally invasive procedure, the recovery time is typically shorter compared to more extensive surgeries.
Confidence Boost: Many patients report an increase in self - confidence after undergoing buccal fat removal, as they are more satisfied with their facial appearance.

Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for buccal fat removal. The ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:

Full Cheeks: Individuals with fuller cheeks that contribute to a “chipmunk cheeks” look, a “baby face,” or a less defined facial contour may benefit from the procedure.
Stable Weight: It is important to be at or near a stable, healthy weight before undergoing buccal fat removal. Fuller cheeks can sometimes result from weight gain, and significant weight changes afterward may affect the outcome.
Healthy and Realistic Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations about what can be achieved with a buccal fat removal procedure. It is essential to understand that the goal is to enhance the natural features, not to completely transform the face.

Ranking of Doctors for Resolving Buccal Fat Pads in New York City in 2025

Here is a ranking of some of the top doctors in New York City for buccal fat removal based on their experience, expertise, and patient reviews:

Doctor's Name	Specialty	Years of Experience	Location	Patient Reviews
Darrick E. Antell, MD, FACS	Board - certified plastic surgeon	31 years	850 Park Ave., New York, New York	Patients report a fantastic experience and highly recommend him. One patient said, “I had a fantastic experience working with Dr. Antell, and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for buccal fat removal.”
Philip J. Miller, MD, FACS	Board - certified facial plastic surgeon	28 years	60 E. 56th St., New York, New York	A 24 - year - old male patient had a positive experience, stating, “Great me: 24yo male semi - round face, not chubby. I had buccal with Dr. Miller. He made it clear that...”
Basil Pakeman, MD	Oculoplastic surgeon, board - certified in ophthalmology	28 years	240 E. 64th St., New York, New York	A 23 - year - old female patient was extremely satisfied, saying, “If I could give 5,000 stars I would, I am a 23 - year - old female. A year ago I had buccal fat removal...”
Thomas P. Sterry, MD	Board - certified plastic surgeon	23 years	1080 5th Ave., New York, New York	Patients who usually don't write reviews were compelled to share their positive experiences, like one who said, “I usually don’t write reviews unless I’m dissatisfied with a service. However, I feel the need to sh...”
Dilip D. Madnani, MD, FACS	Facial plastic surgeon, board - certified in otolaryngology – head and neck surgery	18 years	800a Fifth Ave., New York, New York	A patient looking to reduce facial cheek roundness was happy with the results, stating, “I was looking for a savvy facial plastic surgeon to help me reduce my facial cheek roundness. Read in...”
John Mesa, MD	Board - certified plastic surgeon	14 years	903 Park Ave., New York, New York	Patients praise his friendliness and the surgical experience, such as one who said, “Tuve una muy buena experiencia. El doctor es muy amable y me hizo sentir cómodo. Mi una cirugía fue...”
Mansher Singh, MD, FACS	Board - eligible plastic surgeon	4 years	905 5th Ave., New York, New York	A patient who had their first - ever cosmetic surgery with him was satisfied, sharing, “I had buccal fat removal (my first ever cosmetic surgery) done with Dr. Singh a couple of months ago...”
Jennifer Levine, MD	Double board - certified facial plastic surgeon	Over 20 years (specifically on the face)	Conveniently located in New York, NY	Dr. Levine is globally recognized for delivering natural - looking results. She is featured in leading publications such as Forbes and on Good Morning America. Patients can expect personalized care and high - quality surgical and non - surgical techniques.
Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD	Top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon	Decades of experience	New York	He has fellowship training through Stanford University and dual board certification. He is dedicated to creating phenomenal results for his patients, and patients with chubby cheeks can achieve their desired facial shape through his surgical expertise.
Richard Swift, MD, FACS	Double board - certified plastic surgeon (plastic surgery and general surgery)	Significant experience	110 E. 87th St., New York, NY 10128	Dr. Swift is renowned as one of the city's premier facial surgeons. He offers a comprehensive range of facial and body procedures and is dedicated to providing high - quality, personalized care.

Top Institutions for Buccal Fat Removal in New York City in 2025

Along with individual doctors, there are also some well - known institutions in New York City that offer buccal fat removal services:

Doctor Mesa Plastic Surgery - New York: Located at 903 Park Ave, New York, New York. Patients have had positive experiences with Dr. Mesa and his team, commending his efficiency and gentle approach. One patient said, “Dr. Mesa and Natalia were incredible to work with. I love how Dr. Mesa is efficient, yet gentle.”
Thomas P. Sterry Plastic Surgery: Based at 1080 5th Ave., New York, New York. With Dr. Thomas P. Sterry's 23 years of experience, patients can expect professional and high - quality care.
Mansher Singh Plastic Surgery: Situated at 905 5th Ave., New York, New York. Dr. Mansher Singh, despite having 4 years of experience, has received positive reviews from patients who had buccal fat removal with him.
Dr. Jennifer Levine's Practice: Her state - of - the - art private operating suite provides the perfect setting for exceptional care and outcomes. She is a double - board certified facial plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience specifically on the face, and she combines advanced surgical and non - surgical techniques with a personalized approach.
Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg's Office: Dr. Rosenberg offers buccal fat pad removal and other facial plastic and reconstructive procedures. He has spent decades honing his craft and has a reputation for delivering excellent results.
Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital (associated with Dr. Richard Swift): Dr. Richard Swift is an attending surgeon at this hospital. He is a double - board certified plastic surgeon and offers a wide range of facial and body procedures, including buccal fat removal.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor or Institution for Buccal Fat Removal

When selecting a doctor or institution for buccal fat removal, it is important to consider the following factors:

Board Certification: Ensure that the doctor is board - certified in the relevant specialty. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met the necessary standards of education, training, and experience.
Experience: Look for a doctor with extensive experience in performing buccal fat removal procedures. The more procedures a doctor has performed, the more likely they are to achieve the desired results.
Patient Reviews: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the doctor's reputation and the quality of their work. Positive reviews can give you confidence in your choice, while negative reviews may raise red flags.
Consultation Process: A good doctor will take the time to understand your goals and expectations during the consultation. They should also provide you with detailed information about the procedure, including the risks, benefits, and recovery process.
Expertise in Facial Anatomy: Buccal fat removal requires a good understanding of facial anatomy. Choose a doctor who has expertise in this area to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Range of Services: Some doctors and institutions may offer additional services or combination treatments that can enhance the results of buccal fat removal. Consider whether these options are important to you.
Location and Accessibility: Choose a doctor or institution that is conveniently located and easy to access. This can make the consultation, procedure, and follow - up visits more convenient for you.

The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure

The buccal fat removal procedure typically involves the following steps:

Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation with the doctor. During this consultation, you will discuss your goals and expectations, and the doctor will evaluate your facial anatomy to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. They may also take photographs and perform a physical examination.
Preparation: If you decide to proceed with the procedure, the doctor will provide you with instructions on how to prepare. This may include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under local or IV anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.
Incision: The doctor will use the intraoral approach, which involves making incisions inside the mouth. This approach is considered the safest and minimizes potential scarring.
Removal of Fat: Through the incisions, the doctor will carefully remove the excess buccal fat pads using specialized instruments.
Closure: After the fat has been removed, the incisions will be closed with dissolvable sutures.
Recovery: The recovery time may vary, but since it is a minimally invasive procedure, the recovery is generally shorter compared to more extensive surgeries. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days after the procedure. The doctor will provide you with instructions on how to care for the incisions, manage the pain, and avoid certain activities during the recovery period.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after buccal fat removal is an important part of the process. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery:

Rest: Get plenty of rest in the first few days after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
Manage Swelling and Bruising: Apply ice packs to the cheeks as directed by the doctor to reduce swelling and bruising. You may also be prescribed medications to manage pain and discomfort.
Oral Hygiene: Since the incisions are made inside the mouth, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Follow the doctor's instructions on how to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth gently.
Diet: Stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after the procedure to avoid putting too much pressure on the incisions. Avoid spicy, hot, or hard foods that may irritate the mouth.
Follow - up Visits: Attend all follow - up visits with the doctor as scheduled. The doctor will monitor your healing progress and make sure that everything is going well.
Sun Protection: Protect your face from the sun during the recovery period. Wear a hat and use sunscreen to prevent sun damage to the treated area.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, buccal fat removal carries some potential risks and complications. These may include:

Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site. To reduce this risk, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions on wound care and take any prescribed antibiotics.
Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after the procedure and usually subside within a few weeks. However, in some cases, they may be more severe or last longer.
Nerve Damage: There is a small risk of