Introduction
New York City is a global hub for plastic surgery, and buccal liposuction, also known as buccal fat removal, is a popular procedure among those looking to refine their facial contours. Buccal fat removal is a facial contouring procedure during which fat pads in the cheeks are surgically reduced to create a more sculpted and defined appearance. This article aims to present the top 10 plastic surgery hospitals for buccal liposuction in New York City, along with essential information about the procedure, factors to consider when choosing a hospital, and more.
Understanding Buccal Liposuction
What is Buccal Liposuction?
The buccal fat pads are located beneath the cheekbones and above the jawline. Some people are genetically predisposed to store excess fat in these areas, which can cause “chipmunk cheeks” and make the face appear more round and less defined. Buccal liposuction involves surgically removing excess fat from these pads to provide more definition to the cheekbones and contour the jawline. This procedure can help patients achieve a slimmer facial look that appears natural, especially when combined with other contouring procedures.
Benefits of Buccal Liposuction
- Increased Jawline Definition: Removing the buccal fat can enhance the definition of the jawline, giving the face a more chiseled appearance.
- Contoured Cheekbones: It accentuates the cheekbones, making them more prominent and defined.
- Leaner - Looking, More Defined Face: Patients can achieve a more angular and refined facial profile.
- Long - Lasting Results: Once the fat cells are removed, they do not grow back. However, significant weight gain can cause surrounding fat cells to expand, potentially affecting the results.
- Efficient Procedure: The surgery is often quick, usually lasting around 30 minutes.
- Minimized Recovery: As a minimally invasive procedure, the recovery time is relatively short compared to more extensive treatments.
- Confidence Boost: Many patients report an increase in self - confidence after the procedure.
Candidates for Buccal Liposuction
Patients who may benefit most from buccal liposuction are those with fuller cheeks that contribute to a “chipmunk cheeks” look, a “baby face,” or a less defined facial contour. To be a good candidate, one should:
- Be close to their goal weight. Fuller cheeks can sometimes result from weight gain, and for the best results, it’s important to be at or near a stable, healthy weight before the procedure, as significant weight changes afterward may affect the outcome.
- Have healthy and realistic expectations about what can be achieved with the surgery.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgery Hospital for Buccal Liposuction
Surgeon Expertise
It is crucial to choose a surgeon with the right expertise in buccal fat removal. Look for surgeons who are board - certified in plastic surgery, especially those with a focus on facial plastic surgery. Experienced surgeons are more likely to have honed their skills and can provide better results. For example, a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Jennifer Levine is renowned for her expertise in facial balancing, including buccal fat removal procedures in New York. Her work has been featured in leading publications such as Forbes and on Good Morning America, which is a testament to her high - quality skills.
Hospital Reputation
Research the reputation of the plastic surgery hospital. Check patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the experiences of past patients. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care, a safe environment, and positive outcomes. You can also look for hospitals that are recognized in the industry for their excellence in plastic surgery.
Facility and Technology
State - of - the - art facilities and advanced technology can contribute to a more successful and comfortable procedure. Hospitals that invest in the latest equipment and techniques may offer better results and a more efficient surgical process. For instance, a hospital with a private operating suite can provide a more personalized and controlled environment for the surgery.
Range of Services
Consider hospitals that offer a comprehensive range of services related to buccal liposuction and other facial contouring procedures. This can be beneficial if you want to combine buccal fat removal with other treatments to achieve more comprehensive results. For example, a hospital may offer additional procedures like facelifts, neck liposuction, or the addition of fillers, which can be discussed during your consultation to create a personalized treatment plan.
Cost
The cost of buccal liposuction can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the location of the hospital, and whether additional procedures are included. It's important to get a clear understanding of the total cost during your consultation, including any associated fees such as anesthesia, facility fees, and post - operative care. However, do not base your decision solely on cost; prioritize the quality of care and the surgeon's expertise.
The Top 10 Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Buccal Liposuction in New York City
While a definitive top 10 list can be challenging to compile due to the constantly evolving nature of the plastic surgery industry, the following are some well - regarded hospitals and surgeons in New York City for buccal liposuction:
- Facility Associated with Dr. Jennifer Levine
Dr. Jennifer Levine is a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon renowned for her expertise in buccal fat removal and facial balancing. Her state - of - the - art private operating suite provides an ideal setting for exceptional care and outcomes. Patients who choose Dr. Levine can expect personalized attention and natural - looking results.
- New York Surgical Arts
At New York Surgical Arts, Dr. Carey Nease, a triple - board - certified surgeon, performs buccal fat removal. They offer consultations at two convenient locations in Manhattan and Long Island. The procedure is done through a discreet intraoral incision, leaving no visible scarring. They also provide information and support for corresponding and complementary procedures.
- Facility Associated with Dr. Richard Swift
Dr. Richard W. Swift, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S., is board - certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery. He is committed to providing high - quality and affordable personalized care for buccal fat removal patients. He can guide patients through the process and address their concerns before and after the surgery.
- New York - Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center
This renowned medical center has many highly skilled plastic surgeons on staff. While it offers a wide range of plastic surgery services, including liposuction, some surgeons associated with the center may have expertise in buccal fat removal. Patients can benefit from the center's advanced medical facilities and resources.
- Long Island Plastic Surgical Group
Established in 1948, this group has a legacy of 75 years and a team of 24 plastic surgeons spread across 10 locations. Their experienced surgeons use the latest technologies for various cosmetic procedures, including buccal liposuction, and can provide comprehensive care to patients.
- Mayo Clinic's Cosmetic Center (New York - related services)
Although Mayo Clinic has multiple major campuses, its cosmetic center uses an interdisciplinary approach and offers a comprehensive range of cosmetic services, including liposuction. The center's experts can provide a detailed consultation and personalized treatment plan for buccal fat removal.
- University of Michigan Health (Potential for New York referrals)
Although based in Michigan, its plastic surgery team is recognized worldwide. In some cases, they may offer tele - consultations or referrals for patients in New York, especially for complex cases. Their expertise in various plastic surgery procedures can also be relevant to buccal liposuction.
- Cleveland Clinic's Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery Center (New York connections)
Cleveland Clinic is known for providing high - quality medical care. Its cosmetic center in New York or through affiliated practices may offer buccal liposuction services. Their team of renowned cosmetic surgeons is experts in all areas of cosmetic surgeries.
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center (Relevant for certain patient needs)
While located in Texas, Ut Southwestern's department of plastic surgery offers a wide range of services, including body contouring. For patients in New York with specific needs or preferences, they may offer tele - consultations or referral networks. Their experience in plastic surgery can be valuable for buccal liposuction cases.
- Facilities Associated with Newsweek - Ranked Surgeons
Some of the plastic surgeons recognized in Newsweek's “America's Best Plastic Surgeons 2023” ranking, such as Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS, Adam Schaffner, MD, FACS, and David Hidalgo, MD, FACS, who are based in New York, may work in facilities that offer buccal liposuction. These surgeons have been recommended by medical experts and have a certain level of credibility in the field.
The Buccal Liposuction Process
Personal Consultation
The first step in the buccal liposuction process is a personal consultation with a surgeon. During this consultation, you will discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. The surgeon will examine your face, evaluate your overall health, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for buccal fat removal. This is also a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the surgery, recovery, and potential risks.
Preparation
Preparation for buccal liposuction is relatively simple. You may be asked to stop smoking 4 - 6 weeks before the surgery and until fully recovered, as smoking can impede the healing process. You may also need to stop taking anti - inflammatory and blood - thinning medications to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during the surgery. Additionally, you will be advised to fill prescriptions in advance and make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Procedure
The buccal liposuction procedure is typically performed under local or IV anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience. It is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. The surgeon will use the intraoral approach, which involves making incisions inside the mouth to suction out the targeted fat. This approach is considered the safest and minimizes potential scarring. The procedure usually lasts around 30 minutes, but it may take longer if combined with other cosmetic procedures.
Recovery
Recovery time may vary for each individual. Since buccal liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure, the recovery time is generally shorter than more extensive treatments. After the surgery, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with medications prescribed by your surgeon. You will need to be mindful of how you chew food and brush your teeth during the recovery period to avoid irritating the incisions inside your mouth. Most patients can return to work and light activities within a day or two, but strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week. Residual swelling may persist for a few months, but once it has fully resolved, you can enjoy your new cheek contours.
Results and Long - Term Considerations
Immediate and Long - Term Results
The results of buccal liposuction are often visible immediately after the swelling starts to subside. Over time, as the final swelling resolves, you will notice a more defined and slimmer facial appearance. The results are permanent, as the removed fat cells do not grow back. However, it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent significant weight fluctuations, as this can cause the remaining fat cells to expand and affect the overall results.
Combining with Other Procedures
Buccal liposuction can be combined with other surgical or non - surgical procedures to achieve more comprehensive results. For example, it can be combined with a facelift to address sagging skin, neck liposuction to enhance the jawline further, or the addition of fillers to add volume in other areas of the face. Your surgeon can help you determine the best combination of procedures based on your specific goals and facial structure.
FAQs about Buccal Liposuction
Is buccal fat removal permanent?
Yes, the removed fat cells will not grow back. However, significant weight gain can cause surrounding fat cells to expand, potentially affecting the results.
Is the buccal fat excision procedure painful?
Buccal fat removal is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local or IV anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications.
Is it possible to reduce buccal fat naturally?
Buccal fat is typically resistant to diet and exercise. While weight loss may reduce overall facial fullness in individuals with a higher BMI, buccal fat itself is usually unaffected by natural weight loss efforts.
Are there non - surgical alternatives to buccal fat excision?
Depending on the protrusion of the buccal fat, cheek and jaw contouring treatments such as fillers, Evoke, and Emface may be used to bring harmony and balance to the facial features. However, there is no non - surgical alternative to reducing buccal fat in individuals at their normal weight, as it is resistant to diet and exercise.
Does the buccal fat removal procedure leave visible scars?
No, as the incisions are made inside the mouth, you will not have visible scars.
Can I get buccal fat removal during a facelift?
Yes, during a deep plane facelift, buccal fat pads can also be accessed and removed. Surgeons often combine these procedures for patients who desire facial contouring and rejuvenation.
Conclusion
Buccal liposuction can be an effective way to achieve a more defined and refined facial appearance. When considering this procedure in New York City, it is essential to choose a reputable plastic surgery hospital and an experienced surgeon. By taking into account factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, facility and technology, range of services, and cost, you can make an informed decision. The top 10 hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article are some of the leading providers in the city, but it's important to do your own research and schedule consultations to find the best fit for your needs.
If you are interested in learning more about buccal liposuction or other plastic surgery procedures, we encourage you to reach out to the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article for a consultation. Share this article with friends and family who may also be interested in facial contouring, and continue exploring related topics in the world of plastic surgery to stay informed and make the best decisions for your aesthetic goals.
