The top ten plastic surgery hospitals for buccal fat pad removal and face - slimming in New York City, 2025 version is newly launched!

Introduction

Buccal fat pad removal has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure in New York City, offering individuals the chance to achieve a more contoured and defined facial appearance. With the numerous plastic surgery hospitals in the city, it can be challenging to determine which ones are the best for this specific procedure. In this article, we will present the top ten plastic surgery hospitals for buccal fat pad removal and face - slimming in New York City, taking into account factors such as the expertise of the surgeons, patient satisfaction, and the quality of the facilities.

Understanding Buccal Fat Pad Removal

What is the Buccal Fat Pad?

The buccal fat pad is a mass of fat that accumulates in the middle of the cheeks below the cheekbones. It fills the hollow area of the cheeks and can make the face appear fuller. Some people accumulate extra fat in this area, resulting in what is commonly referred to as “chipmunk cheeks” or a “baby face.”

Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Removal

• Enhanced Facial Contour: Removing the buccal fat pads can create a slimmer and more defined facial shape, emphasizing the cheekbones and jawline.
• Improved Self - Confidence: A more sculpted face can lead to increased self - confidence and a more positive self - image.
• Youthful Appearance: For many, it can reduce the appearance of full cheeks, giving a more youthful look.

Candidates for Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal typically have excessive fullness in the lower cheek area, round faces, or chubby cheeks. They should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations regarding the results, and be at or near their goal weight. Most people who opt for this procedure are in their late 20s or early 30s, but it can be performed on patients of various ages.

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

1. Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD

Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York. He has spent decades honing his craft and has a dual board certification by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. His fellowship training through Stanford University further enhances his expertise. Dr. Rosenberg offers buccal fat pad removal to address “chipmunk cheeks” and slim the face. He often combines this procedure with other surgeries such as facelifts, chin liposuction, or chin implants for more comprehensive results. Patients who choose Dr. Rosenberg can expect exceptional care and natural - looking outcomes.

2. Gotham Plastic Surgery

At Gotham Plastic Surgery, Dr. Philip Miller performs buccal fat excision on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility. The procedure is designed to give patients a more chiseled or slender appearance to the bottom third of the face. Candidates for buccal fat excision at Gotham Plastic Surgery usually have overly large cheeks or a heavy - looking lower face. Dr. Miller has a high success rate, and the recovery period is relatively short, with minimal swelling and no bruising in most cases. They also provide before - and - after photos of their patients, which can give potential patients an idea of the results they can expect.

3. Dr. Thomas P. Sterry

Dr. Thomas P. Sterry is a board - certified New York City plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He has held leadership positions in multiple plastic surgery societies, including the presidency of the New York State Society of Plastic Surgeons and the New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Sterry performs buccal fat removal at his NYC plastic surgery center for permanent facial contouring. He often combines this procedure with other treatments such as precision tx® laser - assisted liposuction, microcannula cheek liposuction, or chin liposuction to create a more angular look for his patients. His patients appreciate the subtle and natural - looking changes that the procedure provides.

4. Dr. Robert Antell

Buccal fat removal is one of Dr. Antell’s favorite operations. He performs it in NYC to slim down the mid - cheeks, which can enhance the entire face’s appearance. Dr. Antell has both a dental and medical degree, giving him a unique understanding of the anatomy of the mouth area. His buccal fat removal procedure is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation, and the incisions are invisible as they are made inside the mouth. The procedure is an outpatient one and takes no more than an hour. Dr. Antell can also combine buccal fat removal with other cosmetic procedures like facial liposuction, facelifts, or chin augmentation.

5. Shafer Plastic Surgery

At Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Shafer offers buccal fat pad removal surgery for patients with chubby or oversized cheeks. Dr. Shafer focuses on providing beautiful and natural - looking results. The procedure is an outpatient one, performed under general anesthesia, and the incisions are made along the inside of the mouth, so there are no visible post - surgical marks. Patients considering buccal fat pad removal at Shafer Plastic Surgery should have excess fat in the cheeks, be in good overall health, and have realistic expectations about the outcome. The clinic also offers the option to combine buccal fat removal with other cosmetic facial procedures for more comprehensive facial enhancement.

6. Dr. Jennifer Levine

Dr. Jennifer Levine is a double - board - certified facial plastic surgeon renowned for her expertise in facial balancing, including buccal fat removal procedures in New York. Featured in leading publications like Forbes and on Good Morning America, she combines advanced surgical and non - surgical techniques with a personalized approach. Her state - of - the - art private operating suite provides exceptional care. The buccal fat removal procedure at her practice is efficient, often lasting around 30 minutes and performed under local or IV anesthesia. Dr. Levine can also recommend corresponding and combination procedures such as facelifts, neck liposuction, or the addition of fillers to achieve comprehensive results.

7. Dr. Richard Swift, MD

Dr. Richard Swift is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both plastic surgery and general surgery. After graduating from Yale University and obtaining his medical degree from Brown University, he completed extensive training and fellowships. His practice offers a comprehensive range of facial treatments, including buccal fat removal. Dr. Swift is dedicated to providing high - quality, personalized care to each patient. He has experience in combining buccal fat removal with other facial plastic surgery procedures to achieve the best possible results for his patients.

8. Manhattan Surgical Care

Dr. Basil Pakeman at Manhattan Surgical Care performs buccal fat pad removal as a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery. The procedure can be completed in as little as 30 minutes, and recovery time is minimal. Dr. Pakeman takes care to ensure a natural facial shape while achieving the desired results. Buccal fat pad removal at this facility can be combined with other procedures such as liposuction of the neck or chin or rhinoplasty. The clinic also provides detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and frequently asked questions to help patients make informed decisions.

9. NYU Langone Health - Plastic Surgery

NYU Langone Health is a well - known medical institution with a highly regarded plastic surgery department. Their team of surgeons has extensive experience in buccal fat pad removal and other facial cosmetic procedures. The department offers a multidisciplinary approach, combining the expertise of plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical professionals. Patients at NYU Langone Health can expect access to the latest surgical techniques and high - quality post - operative care. The hospital also conducts research in the field of plastic surgery, which helps to ensure that patients receive the most advanced treatments.

10. Mount Sinai - Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Mount Sinai has a reputation for excellence in plastic surgery. Their surgeons are skilled in buccal fat pad removal and are committed to providing personalized care to each patient. Mount Sinai offers a range of surgical and non - surgical options for facial enhancement. The hospital has state - of - the - art facilities and a team of experienced medical staff. Patients can benefit from the institution's comprehensive approach to plastic surgery, which includes pre - operative counseling, surgical procedures, and post - operative follow - up.

Comparing the Hospitals

Preparing for Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Initial Consultation

The first step in the buccal fat pad removal process is the initial consultation. During this appointment, the surgeon will ask about your medical history, current health, and your reasons for wanting the procedure. They will also examine your face to determine if you are a suitable candidate. This is a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, the recovery process, and the expected results.

Medical Evaluation

Depending on your medical history, the surgeon may request certain medical tests, such as blood tests or an electrocardiogram (ECG). These tests help ensure that you are in good health and can safely undergo the surgery.

Lifestyle Changes

If you are a smoker, you will likely be advised to quit smoking several weeks before the surgery. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. You may also be asked to avoid taking certain medications, such as aspirin or other blood - thinning drugs, as they can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery.

The Buccal Fat Pad Removal Procedure

Anesthesia

Buccal fat pad removal can be performed under local anesthesia with or without mild sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's preference and the surgeon's recommendation. Local anesthesia numbs the area inside the mouth where the incisions will be made, while sedation helps the patient relax during the procedure. General anesthesia is used when the patient prefers to be completely unconscious during the surgery.

Incision and Fat Removal

The surgeon makes a small incision inside the mouth, usually near the upper molars. Through this incision, the buccal fat pad is identified and gently removed. The amount of fat removed is carefully determined based on the patient's facial structure and the desired outcome. Once the fat is removed, the incision is closed with sutures, which are often absorbable and do not require removal.

Duration of the Procedure

The buccal fat pad removal procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether it is combined with other procedures.

Recovery from Buccal Fat Pad Removal

Immediate Post - operative Care

After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. You may experience some swelling and mild discomfort in the cheeks, which is normal. Cold compresses can be applied to the cheeks to reduce swelling. You will also be given instructions on how to care for the incisions in your mouth, such as rinsing with a special mouthwash and avoiding certain foods.

Return to Normal Activities

Most patients can return to work or school within a few days to a week after the surgery, depending on the amount of swelling and their individual recovery rate. However, it is important to avoid strenuous physical activities for at least a week or two to allow the body to heal properly.

Long - term Results

The swelling will gradually subside over the next few weeks to months, and the final results of the buccal fat pad removal will become more apparent. The removed fat cells will not grow back, so the results are permanent. However, significant weight fluctuations can affect the appearance of the face, so it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Potential Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising in the