Top Hospitals for Buccal Fat Pad Removal in New York City
In the vibrant city of New York, the demand for buccal fat pad removal to achieve a slimmer face has been on the rise. This article will introduce you to the departments of the top three hospitals for this procedure. But first, let's understand what buccal fat pad removal is all about.
What is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
The buccal fat pad is a deep - seated fat pad located in the lower part of the cheeks on either side of the face. Buccal fat removal is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery aimed at reducing the fullness of the cheeks or getting rid of “chipmunk cheeks”. It involves making a small incision inside the mouth, usually near the upper molars, and removing a portion of the fat pad. This procedure can help create a more contoured, angular, and youthful appearance by slimming the face and enhancing the definition of the cheekbones and jawline.
Who is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
- People with excessive fullness in the lower cheek area, round face, chubby cheeks, or “chipmunk cheeks” who desire a more chiseled face.
- Individuals who are in good general health, non - smokers, and at or near their goal weight.
- Those with realistic expectations about the results of the procedure.
Top Three Hospitals for Buccal Fat Pad Removal in New York City
1. Gotham Plastic Surgery
Surgeon: Dr. Philip Miller
Procedure Details: Dr. Miller performs buccal fat excision on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO accredited office - based surgery facility. The procedure uses local or general anesthesia. A small incision is made on the inside of the mouth, the fat pad is removed, and the incision is closed. The whole process takes just a few days for recovery, with minimal swelling and no bruising. Some dietary restrictions, such as a soft - foods diet, may be necessary due to the intraoral incisions.
Benefits: It helps patients with very round or full cheeks achieve a more chiseled or slender appearance to the bottom third of the face. It creates more balance and harmony in the face, making patients look more sophisticated and less “child - like”. For example, they have had male patients who wanted to contour their face and reduce visible fat in the cheeks, and after the procedure, they achieved a slimmer - looking face.
Patient Criteria: Ideal candidates usually have overly large cheeks or a heavy - looking lower face. They should be in good general health, non - smokers, and have realistic expectations for improvement. Some patients may choose to combine buccal fat excision with other procedures, such as cheek implants or jaw/chin implants.
Cost: The cost of the procedure at Gotham Plastic Surgery can vary. It is affected by factors such as the operational costs of the facility, the surgeon's fees, anesthesia costs, and pre - and post - operative tests and medications. Dr. Miller will carefully examine the patient's buccal fat pads, discuss the goals, and run the necessary tests to curate a treatment plan before providing the exact cost.
2. Manhattan Surgical Care
Surgeon: Dr. Basil Pakeman
Procedure Details: Buccal fat pad removal by Dr. Pakeman is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery. The buccal lipectomy (removal of the buccal fat pad) is done through a small incision inside the back of the mouth across from the upper molars. A suture is used to close the incision, and there is no scarring on the face or cheeks. The entire procedure can take as little as 30 minutes to complete. It can sometimes be combined with other procedures like liposuction of the neck or chin or rhinoplasty.
Benefits: It offers several facial cosmetic surgery benefits, including reduction of lower cheek volume, enhancement of upper cheek and cheekbone contour from the lower cheek hollows, triangulation of facial shape and facial contour, creation of a more slender, narrower facial contour, and reduction of facial fullness or plumpness. For men, it gives a more chiseled jawline and cheeks, and for women, a more sculpted lower facial contour.
Patient Criteria: The best candidates are in their late 20s or early 30s, at or near their goal weight, and in good health. They should come prepared with a list of any medications, herbal supplements, or vitamins they are currently taking, as well as their medical history.
Cost: The cost of buccal fat removal at Manhattan Surgical Care is an elective cosmetic procedure, and insurance does not cover it. The cost covers the surgical and the facility fee. Their office offers financing options, and the cost will vary based on the patient's needs. Patients can call 212 - 308 - 1566 to get an estimated quote.
3. Dr. Douglas Steinbrech's Practice
Surgeon: Dr. Douglas Steinbrech
Procedure Details: A buccal fat pad removal surgery at Dr. Steinbrech's practice is a simple outpatient procedure. First, the mouth is cleaned and rinsed. Local anesthesia is then administered via injection to the cheek area. A small 1 - 2 - cm incision is made inside the mouth, behind the upper molars. Scissors and a surgical pick - up are used to pull a part or all of the fat pad out of the cheeks, the fat pad's blood vessel is cauterized, and dissolvable sutures are used to close the incisions. The procedure is repeated on the other side of the mouth, and the total procedure time is only about 30 minutes.
Benefits: It eliminates cheek fullness, offering enhanced facial contours with striking cheekbones and chiseled lines. Patients can achieve a more youthful appearance by shedding their chubby cheeks. The recovery time is minimal, allowing patients to get back to their daily rhythm quickly.
Patient Criteria: Candidates are generally healthy individuals with prominent facial fat below the cheekbones that they would like to reduce. They should have realistic expectations about the results and understand that the procedure won't completely change their face structure. Patients who have had previous facial plastic surgery should consult their plastic surgeon before considering buccal fat pad removal.
Cost: The average cost for buccal fat removal surgery in New York at Dr. Steinbrech's practice is between $7,000 and $8,000. However, this amount can be affected by additional costs such as anesthesia fees, facility fees, pre - op and post - op care instructions, etc. It is important to discuss all potential costs with Dr. Steinbrech prior to undergoing the procedure.
Comparison of the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Surgeon | Procedure Time | Recovery Time | Key Benefits | Patient Criteria | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gotham Plastic Surgery | Dr. Philip Miller | Outpatient, quick | A few days | Chiseled lower face, balance and harmony | Overly large cheeks, good health, non - smoker | Varies based on multiple factors |
| Manhattan Surgical Care | Dr. Basil Pakeman | As little as 30 minutes | 1 - 3 months for full results | Reduction of lower cheek volume, enhanced cheekbones | Late 20s - early 30s, near goal weight, good health | Varies, financing available |
| Dr. Douglas Steinbrech's Practice | Dr. Douglas Steinbrech | About 30 minutes | 2 - 3 days to return to normal activities | Enhanced facial contours, youthful appearance, minimal downtime | Healthy with prominent lower cheek fat | $7,000 - $8,000 + additional costs |
Considerations Before Choosing a Hospital
When considering buccal fat pad removal, it is crucial to take several factors into account:
- Surgeon's Experience and Qualifications: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified and has extensive experience in performing buccal fat pad removal procedures. For example, Dr. Philip Miller at Gotham Plastic Surgery has likely honed his skills through years of practice, which can contribute to better results.
- Patient Reviews: Read reviews from previous patients to get an idea of their experiences with the hospital and the surgeon. Positive reviews can indicate high - quality service and satisfactory results.
- Cost and Insurance: As mentioned earlier, the cost of buccal fat pad removal can vary. Understand the total cost, including all associated fees, and whether there are any financing options available. Keep in mind that this is an elective cosmetic procedure, so insurance usually does not cover it.
- Hospital Facilities: Check the quality of the hospital's facilities, especially if it is an outpatient procedure. A well - equipped and clean facility can ensure a safe and comfortable experience for the patient.
- Complications and Risks: Be aware of the potential risks associated with buccal fat pad removal, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, asymmetry, and excessive hollowing. Discuss these risks with the surgeon and understand how they will be minimized.
After - care and Recovery
The recovery process after buccal fat pad removal varies depending on the individual and the hospital where the procedure is performed, but there are some general guidelines:
- Swelling and Bruising: It is normal to experience some swelling and, in rare cases, bruising after the procedure. The swelling usually peaks in the first few days and gradually subsides over time. Applying ice packs as directed by the surgeon can help reduce swelling.
- Dietary Restrictions: Most surgeons recommend a soft - foods or liquid diet for the first few days after the procedure to avoid irritating the incisions inside the mouth. Avoid hot foods and liquids in the first 6 hours after surgery if your mouth is numbed.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous physical activities for a period of time, usually a week or two. Light activities can be resumed as soon as the patient feels comfortable, but it is important to follow the surgeon's instructions.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection. Rinse your mouth gently with an antibacterial mouthwash as recommended by the surgeon, especially after meals.
- Follow - up Appointments: Make sure to attend all follow - up appointments with the surgeon. They will monitor your healing progress, remove any stitches if necessary (although many sutures are dissolvable), and address any concerns you may have.
Conclusion
Buccal fat pad removal can be an effective way to achieve a slimmer and more contoured face. New York City offers several top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons for this procedure. Hospitals like Gotham Plastic Surgery, Manhattan Surgical Care, and Dr. Douglas Steinbrech's practice each have their own unique features, benefits, and patient criteria. However, the decision to undergo buccal fat pad removal should not be taken lightly. It is essential to thoroughly research the hospitals, surgeons, and the procedure itself, and have a detailed consultation with the surgeon to ensure that it is the right choice for you.
If you are considering buccal fat pad removal, take the first step and schedule a consultation with one of these top hospitals in New York City. Discover how this procedure can enhance your facial appearance and boost your self - confidence.
