Introduction
Cheek suction, also known as buccal fat removal, has become a popular plastic surgery procedure in New York City. It offers individuals the opportunity to achieve a more sculpted and defined facial appearance. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information about cheek suction on both sides, including what it entails, who is a suitable candidate, and the best hospitals and surgeons in New York City. By understanding the process and making informed decisions, patients can feel confident about their choice to undergo this cosmetic procedure.
Understanding Cheek Fat and Buccal Fat Removal
What is Buccal Fat?
Buccal fat is a specific part of facial anatomy located between the cheek muscles and jaw bones. Everyone has buccal fat, but the amount varies from person to person. It is not related to obesity but can change with weight loss and age, often decreasing as people reach their 30s. This fat contributes to the shape of the face and is what gives some people those “chubby cheeks” that are often pinched by relatives when they are young.
The Buccal Fat Removal Procedure
Buccal fat removal, or cheek suction, is a surgical procedure that involves removing the buccal fat pads to slim the cheeks and create more prominent cheekbones. The goal is to achieve a more angular and defined facial appearance, often associated with a more mature and “supermodel” look. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision on the inside of each cheek in the mouth. Then, they apply pressure on the outside of the cheek to maneuver the unwanted buccal fat out through the incision and remove it. After that, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
Benefits of Cheek Suction on Both Sides
There are several benefits to undergoing cheek suction on both sides:
- Sharper Jawline: Removing the buccal fat can help define the jawline, giving the face a more structured and angular appearance.
- Enhanced Cheekbones: By reducing the volume of the cheeks, the cheekbones become more prominent, adding to the overall aesthetic of the face.
- No Visible Scarring: Since the incisions are made inside the mouth, there are no visible scars on the face, which is a significant advantage for many patients.
- Minimal Recovery Time: Compared to some other plastic surgery procedures, cheek suction typically has a relatively short recovery period. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day, although swelling and some bruising may be present for about a week.
Who is a Good Candidate for Cheek Suction?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for cheek suction. Ideal candidates generally meet the following criteria:
- Chubby Cheeks due to Excess Buccal Fat: The procedure is most effective for individuals with chubby cheeks caused by an abundance of buccal fat, rather than overall obesity. The excess fat should be located in the mid - face, below the cheekbones.
- Good Physical and Mental Health: Patients should be in good overall health to undergo the surgery safely. This includes having no underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications.
- Non - Smokers: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Candidates should either not smoke or be willing to stop prior to surgery.
- Realistic Expectations: It is important for patients to have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. Cheek suction can enhance the facial appearance, but it may not completely transform a person's look.
- Age Considerations: Dr. Pearlman at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery generally doesn't perform this procedure for patients until their late 20s. This is because the face shape is still changing in the 20s, and the buccal fat will naturally start to decrease with age. Removing it too early can lead to premature aging, gauntness, or skin laxity.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon in New York City
Board - Certification
When considering cheek suction in New York City, it is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon. A board - certified surgeon has undergone extensive training and has demonstrated safe and ethical practice over multiple years. For facial plastic surgery, it is even more beneficial to find a doctor certified in that specialty. For example, Dr. Steven Pearlman is dual - board certified in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as otolaryngology (head and neck surgery).
Consultation Process
The consultation process is an important opportunity to get to know the surgeon. A good surgeon should take the time to listen to the patient's concerns and goals, answer all questions, and perform a thorough examination of the facial anatomy. During the consultation, the surgeon will also determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure and recommend the best approach. For instance, at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, patients meet with Dr. Pearlman for a consultation where he asks about general health, examines the face, and makes a recommendation on whether buccal fat removal is appropriate.
Experience
Looking at before and after images from the surgeon's previous patients is an important part of the decision - making process. Patients can see if the surgeon has treated individuals with similar facial characteristics and achieved results similar to what they are imagining for themselves. For example, patients can view the before and after gallery at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery to get an idea of the surgeon's work.
Reputation
Checking the surgeon's reputation among other medical professionals and patients is also essential. Online reviews, testimonials, and referrals from friends or family can provide valuable insights into the surgeon's skills and patient satisfaction. Some well - known hospitals and surgeons in New York City with a good reputation for cheek suction and other facial plastic surgeries include Mount Sinai's division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, where the surgeons are board - certified experts and have extensive experience in a variety of cosmetic procedures.
Popular Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Cheek Suction
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. Steven Pearlman at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery is highly regarded for his expertise in cheek fat removal. He provides a comprehensive consultation process, taking into account the patient's overall health, facial anatomy, and aesthetic goals. The office offers detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery, and patients can expect personalized care throughout the entire process. Dr. Pearlman's dual - board certification in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology gives patients confidence in his abilities.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery has a team of board - certified facial plastic surgeons. They offer a range of cosmetic procedures, including cheek, chin, and jaw implants, as well as other facial rejuvenation surgeries. The surgeons at Mount Sinai use advanced techniques and strive to provide natural - looking results. Patients can benefit from the hospital's state - of - the - art facilities and multidisciplinary approach to care. For cheek suction, patients can expect a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan based on their individual needs.
Other Options
There are also other well - known surgeons in New York City who specialize in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Barry Weintraub performs cheekbone augmentation, which may be combined with or an alternative to cheek suction depending on the patient's goals. He offers different methods such as cheek implants, fat transfer, and dermal - filler treatment. Dr. Gerald Imber is an internationally renowned plastic surgeon who offers cheek augmentation options, including fat transfer, which can also help in achieving a more balanced and defined facial appearance.
The Cheek Suction Procedure: What to Expect
Before the Procedure
Before undergoing cheek suction, patients will have a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will ask about the patient's medical history, examine the face, and discuss the procedure in detail. The patient will also be given instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, which may include avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin, for a period of time before the procedure. For patients who are having the procedure done with other surgeries, the preparation may be more extensive. In addition, patients may be asked to have pre - operative tests, such as blood tests, to ensure they are in good health for the surgery.
During the Procedure
Cheek suction is usually an outpatient procedure that uses local anesthetic unless it is being performed in combination with another procedure, such as a facelift. If the patient is feeling anxious, sedation may also be provided. The surgeon will make small incisions inside the mouth on each cheek and then carefully remove the buccal fat pads. The procedure typically takes about an hour or so, depending on the amount of fat to be removed and the complexity of the case.
After the Procedure
After the surgery, patients will be given a set of detailed aftercare instructions. They can expect some swelling and possible bruising, which should be manageable with medication. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a day, but it may take about a week to feel completely back to normal. The incisions inside the mouth will heal on their own, and dissolvable sutures will gradually disappear. The final results of the surgery will become more apparent as the swelling subsides over a few months.
Recovery and Aftercare
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling is a common side effect after cheek suction. It usually peaks in the first few days after the surgery and gradually subsides over the next week or so. Cold compresses can be used to help reduce the swelling. Bruising may also occur, but it typically fades within a couple of weeks. The surgeon may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort during the recovery period.
Oral Care
Since the incisions are made inside the mouth, proper oral care is essential. Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions on oral hygiene, which may include using a special mouthwash to prevent infection. They should also avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for a few days to allow the incisions to heal properly.
Activity Restrictions
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks after the surgery to prevent any complications. This includes heavy exercise, bending over, or lifting heavy objects. Light cardio exercise may be resumed after about 7 - 10 days, but more strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 3 weeks.
Follow - up Appointments
Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor the healing process and ensure that there are no complications. The surgeon will examine the incisions, check for any signs of infection, and evaluate the progress of the recovery. At these appointments, the patient can also ask any questions they may have about the healing process or the final results.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, cheek suction has some potential risks and complications:
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the incision site. To minimize this risk, patients should follow the surgeon's instructions on oral hygiene and take any prescribed antibiotics as directed.
- Asymmetry: In some cases, there may be a slight difference in the appearance of the two cheeks after the surgery. This can usually be corrected with additional procedures or adjustments if necessary.
- Damage to Nerves or Blood Vessels: Although rare, there is a risk of damaging the nerves or blood vessels in the cheek area during the procedure. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or other sensory changes in the face.
- Unsatisfactory Results: It is possible that the patient may not be completely satisfied with the results of the surgery. This could be due to factors such as unrealistic expectations or unforeseen complications. In such cases, the surgeon may discuss options for further treatment or revision surgery.
Alternatives to Cheek Suction
Facial Fillers
Facial fillers can be used as an alternative to cheek suction, especially for patients who are not ready for surgery or want a less invasive option. Fillers such as hyaluronic acid can be injected into the cheeks to add volume and definition. The results are temporary, usually lasting from 6 months to a couple of years, depending on the type of filler used. This option is a good way to see what a more enhanced cheek appearance would look like without making a permanent change.
Cheek Implants
Cheek implants are another option for cheek augmentation. They are used to add shape and volume to the cheeks, creating a more prominent and defined look. Implants can be made from various materials, such as silastic or polythene, and are placed over the cheekbones. The procedure is more invasive than using fillers but provides more long - lasting results compared to the temporary effects of fillers.
Cheek Lift
A cheek lift, or midface lift, can also address issues related to the cheeks. This procedure is designed to reduce the signs of aging in the midface, such as sagging skin, jowls, and nasolabial folds. It can involve surgical repositioning of the soft tissue in the midface, cheek augmentation with fat grafting or dermal fillers, or a combination of both. A cheek lift can restore youthful fullness and natural contours to the face.
Cost Considerations
The cost of cheek suction in New York City can vary depending on several factors:
- Surgeon's Experience: More experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees for their services.
- Location of the Practice: Practices in more upscale or prime locations in New York City may have higher overhead costs, which can be reflected in the cost of the procedure.
- Complexity of the Case: If the patient has a more complex facial anatomy or requires additional procedures along with cheek suction, the cost may be higher.
- Anesthesia and Facility Fees: The cost of anesthesia and the use of the surgical facility also contribute to the overall cost of the procedure.
It is important for patients to discuss the cost with the surgeon during the consultation and to understand what is included in the fee. In most cases, insurance does not cover cheek suction as it is considered a cosmetic procedure.
Conclusion
Cheek suction on both sides is a popular plastic surgery procedure in New York City that can help individuals achieve a more sculpted and defined facial appearance. By understanding the procedure, who is a suitable candidate, and how to choose the right hospital and surgeon, patients can make informed decisions about their cosmetic goals. It is important to have realistic expectations and to follow the surgeon's instructions before, during, and after the surgery to ensure a successful outcome. While there are potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, choosing an experienced and board - certified surgeon can minimize these risks. If you are considering cheek suction, take the time to research your options and schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon in New York City.
Call - to - Action
If you are interested in learning more about cheek suction on both sides or other facial plastic surgery procedures in New York City, contact one of the recommended hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this guide. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs and goals with a qualified professional. Take the first step towards achieving the facial appearance you desire today!
