The Ranking List and Price List of Plastic Hospitals for Buccal Fat Pad Removal for Facial Slimming in New York City are Out!

Introduction

In the bustling city of New York, where beauty standards are ever - evolving, buccal fat pad removal for facial slimming has emerged as a popular cosmetic procedure. This surgical method targets the buccal fat pads in the cheeks to reduce fullness and create a more contoured and defined facial appearance. In this article, we will dive deep into the ranking list and price list of plastic hospitals in New York City that offer this procedure. But first, let's understand what buccal fat removal is all about.

What is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Buccal fat pads are deposits of fat deep in the cheeks, located between certain muscles. They are responsible for adding roundness to the cheeks and are most prominent in youth. In some individuals, these fat pads are overly large, giving the appearance of "chipmunk cheeks" or a less - defined facial contour. Buccal fat pad removal, also known as buccal lipectomy, is a surgical procedure that aims to remove these excess fat pads.

During the procedure, a small incision is made inside the mouth, usually near the second molars. Through this incision, the surgeon gently exposes the buccal fat pad and removes it. The incisions are then closed with absorbable sutures, leaving no visible external scars. The goal of this procedure is to achieve a softer look in the lower cheeks and a more heart - shaped face.

Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for buccal fat pad removal. Here are the characteristics of an ideal candidate:

• Fullness in the Mid - to Lower Cheeks: Individuals who have prominent fullness in the mid - to lower cheeks, resulting in a round or "baby - faced" appearance, are good candidates. For example, those with genetically large buccal fat pads that do not respond to diet or exercise are likely to benefit.
• Stable and Healthy Weight: It is important for candidates to be at a stable and healthy weight. Significant weight changes after the procedure can affect the results. For instance, if a person loses a large amount of weight after the surgery, it may lead to a gaunt appearance.
• Realistic Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. While buccal fat removal can enhance facial contours, it will not completely change one's face structure or alter other facial features.
• Non - Smokers: Smoking can increase the risk of surgical complications, such as poor wound healing and infection. Therefore, non - smokers are preferred candidates for the procedure.

Top Plastic Hospitals in New York City for Buccal Fat Pad Removal

1. Steven Wallach MD, FACS

Dr. Steven Wallach is conveniently located to serve the areas of New York. He is well - known for performing buccal fat removal procedures. His approach focuses on reducing the fullness in the mid - to lower cheek area. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia and takes less than an hour. Dr. Wallach is experienced in handling cases and ensuring that patients have a smooth recovery.

2. The Kaplan Center

The Kaplan Center, under the expertise of Dr. Kaplan, offers buccal fat removal. The procedure, medically termed buccal lipectomy, involves removing excess fat from the cheeks to highlight patients’ natural contours and make their cheekbones appear higher. Dr. Kaplan places a small incision in the mouth in the cheek area of each side of the face to remove the buccal fat pads. His clinic has received positive patient reviews for getting rid of “chubby cheeks” and enhancing cheekbone definition.

3. Dr. Darren M. Smith

Dr. Darren M. Smith, a board - certified plastic surgeon and one of the leading authorities in aesthetic and craniofacial surgery in New York City, is an expert in buccal fat excision. He takes a personalized approach to the procedure, starting with a careful assessment of the patient's needs. The surgery is usually completed in under an hour, and patients can expect a more contoured look in the middle and lower thirds of their face with minimal downtime. Dr. Smith provides detailed post - procedure care instructions to ensure a successful recovery.

4. Dr. Jennifer Levine

Dr. Jennifer Levine, a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon, is renowned for her expertise in facial balancing, including buccal fat removal procedures in New York. Her state - of - the - art private operating suite provides the perfect setting for exceptional care and outcomes. The buccal fat removal procedure with Dr. Levine is efficient, often lasting around 30 minutes and performed under local or IV anesthesia. She uses the intraoral approach, which is considered the safest and minimizes potential scarring.

5. Dr. Douglas Steinbrech

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. His buccal fat pad removal in New York is a simple outpatient procedure that quickly and permanently resolves middle and lower cheek fullness. He is known for his attention to detail and personalized care. The procedure time is only about 30 minutes, and patients can return home shortly after. Dr. Steinbrech also has a great team of caring staff members to support patients throughout the process.

6. Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD

Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York. He has extensive experience in working with patients to achieve the desired effect through plastic surgery. For those with chubby or fatty cheeks, he offers buccal fat pad removal, often in combination with other procedures such as a facelift, chin liposuction, or chin implants. His dedication to creating phenomenal results for his patients is highly regarded.

7. Dr. Philip Miller

Dr. Philip Miller, New York City’s #1 double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in buccal fat removal, offers specialized expertise. He uses the exclusive Natra Look® process during consultations to align the patient's buccal fat removal goals with his artistic approach. The procedure typically takes about one to two hours, and his team provides diligent post - procedure care.

8. Shafer Plastic Surgery

At Shafer Plastic Surgery in New York City, board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Shafer performs buccal fat pad removal surgery. He focuses on providing patients with beautiful and natural - looking results. The incisions for the procedure are made along the inside of the mouth, and the patient is provided with detailed post - operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Price List of Buccal Fat Pad Removal in New York City

The cost of buccal fat pad removal in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the case, the type of anesthesia used, and whether it is combined with other procedures. Here is a general price range from different providers:

Factors Affecting the Cost of Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Several factors can influence the cost of buccal fat pad removal in New York City:

• Surgeon's Experience: A more experienced surgeon's services will cost more. Their wealth of experience promotes ideal results, and their services are in higher demand. For example, a surgeon with over 20 years of experience in buccal fat removal may charge more than a less - experienced one.
• Complexity of the Case: Buccal fat pads come in different shapes and sizes. In some cases, the area of concern is harder to reach, making the surgery more difficult. If the buccal fat pads are difficult to target and remove, the cost of the procedure may be higher.
• Type of Anesthesia: General anesthesia is more expensive than local anesthesia. Under general anesthesia, the patient is completely unconscious during the procedure, while under local anesthesia, only the targeted area is numbed. In most cases of buccal fat removal, local anesthesia is sufficient.
• Geographic Location: New York City is a highly populated and expensive city. The cost of living and doing business in the city is high, which is reflected in the price of cosmetic procedures. Compared to smaller cities or towns, the cost of buccal fat removal in New York City is generally higher.
• Outpatient vs. Inpatient Care: In most cases, buccal fat removal is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient does not need to stay in the hospital. However, if the surgery is more advanced or the patient prefers inpatient care, the cost will be significantly higher.

Procedure and Recovery

Procedure

Regardless of the hospital or surgeon, the general steps of the buccal fat pad removal procedure are as follows:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's preference and the surgeon's recommendation. Local anesthesia numbs the targeted area, while general anesthesia makes the patient completely unconscious.
2. Incision: A small incision is made inside the mouth, usually near the second molars. This approach ensures that there are no visible external scars after the surgery.
3. Removal of Buccal Fat Pads: The surgeon gently exposes the buccal fat pad and carefully removes it through the incision. The amount of fat removed is determined based on the patient's facial structure and aesthetic goals.
4. Closure: The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, which dissolve over time, eliminating the need for suture removal.

Recovery

The recovery process after buccal fat pad removal is relatively straightforward:

• Dietary Adjustments: For the first 48 hours after surgery, a clear liquid diet is usually recommended to allow the incisions in the mouth to start healing. After that, patients can gradually reintroduce regular foods but should avoid rough - textured foods for a few days.
• Sleep Positioning: Sleeping on the back with the head propped up on a couple of pillows can help reduce swelling and discomfort during the recovery period.
• Return to Work and Activities: Most people can return to work and resume normal activities in a few days. However, intense exercise should be avoided until the surgeon gives the all - clear, which is usually after about two weeks.
• Swelling and Pain Management: It is normal to have some soreness and mild swelling in the cheeks after the procedure. Cold compresses or ice packs can be used for the first 48 hours to minimize swelling, and mild pain medication can be taken to manage any discomfort.

Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Buccal fat pad removal offers several benefits:

• Enhanced Facial Contours: By removing the excess fat in the cheeks, the procedure can accentuate the cheekbones and create a more defined and contoured facial appearance.
• Youthful Look: It can reduce the appearance of "chubby cheeks" or a "baby face," giving the face a more mature and youthful look.
• Long - Lasting Results: Since the removed fat cells do not grow back, the results of buccal fat removal are generally permanent. However, significant weight gain can cause the face to appear fatter again.
• Minimal Scarring: The intraoral approach used in the procedure means that there are no visible external scars after the surgery.
• Boost in Self - Confidence: Improving one's facial appearance can lead to an increase in self - confidence and self - esteem.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat pad removal has some risks and considerations:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection, especially due to the intraoral incisions. Patients should follow the post - operative care instructions carefully to minimize this risk.
• Bleeding and Hematoma: Some patients may experience post - surgical bleeding or the formation of hematomas. In most cases, these are minor, but excessive bleeding may require medical attention.
• 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: Removing too much buccal fat can lead to a gaunt appearance. Proper candidate selection is crucial to prevent this.
• 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.

Conclusion

Buccal fat pad removal for facial slimming is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. There are several top - notch plastic hospitals and experienced surgeons offering this service. The cost of the procedure can vary based on multiple factors, and it is important for patients to understand the procedure, recovery process, benefits, and risks before making a decision. If you are considering buccal fat pad removal, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if you are a suitable candidate and to discuss your aesthetic goals.

Take the first step towards achieving your desired facial appearance by reaching out to one of the recommended plastic hospitals in New York City. Research the surgeons, read patient reviews, and ask plenty of questions during your consultation. Remember, a well - informed decision is the key to a successful buccal fat pad removal procedure.