Top 10 Selected Hospitals for Buccal Fat Pad Removal and Facial Slimming in New York City! 2025

In the bustling city of New York, where beauty and aesthetics are highly valued, buccal fat pad removal and facial slimming procedures have gained significant popularity. These procedures offer individuals the opportunity to achieve a more contoured and defined facial appearance. If you're considering such a procedure, it's crucial to choose a reputable hospital and experienced surgeon. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 selected hospitals for buccal fat pad removal and facial slimming in New York City.

What is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?

Buccal fat pads are masses of fat located in the middle of the cheeks, below the cheekbones. They can make the face appear fuller and rounder. Buccal fat pad removal, also known as buccal lipectomy, is a facial contouring procedure that involves removing these fat pads to create a slimmer and more angular face. The procedure is typically performed through a small incision inside the mouth, which means there are no visible scars on the face.

Let's take a look at the key aspects of buccal fat pad removal:

• How it works: An intraoral approach is used to access the buccal fat pads. A small incision is made inside the mouth, near the upper molars, and the fat pads are gently removed.
• Benefits: Buccal fat pad removal can enhance cheekbone definition, create a more balanced facial profile, and reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks. It can also boost self - confidence and improve one's overall appearance.
• Candidates: Ideal candidates for buccal fat pad removal are individuals who have excess fat in the cheeks, are in good overall health, and have realistic expectations about the results. They should be at or near their goal weight, as significant weight changes after the procedure may affect the outcome.
• Recovery: The recovery time is relatively short. Most patients can resume their daily activities within a few days, although they may need to avoid strenuous physical activities for a couple of weeks. Swelling and mild discomfort are common immediately after the procedure but usually subside within a week or two.

Top 10 Hospitals for Buccal Fat Pad Removal and Facial Slimming in New York City

1. Antell Medical Associates

Dr. Antell at Antell Medical Associates is well - known for his expertise in buccal fat removal in NYC. He has both a dental and medical degree, which gives him an in - depth understanding of the mouth area's anatomy, including the buccal fat pads.

• Procedure details: The buccal fat removal procedure is an outpatient procedure that takes no more than an hour. It is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation, and the incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars.
• Benefits: By reducing the mid - cheek fat, the cheekbones become more prominent, enhancing the overall facial appearance. Dr. Antell can also discuss combining buccal fat removal with other procedures such as facial liposuction, facelift, or chin augmentation.
• Recovery: Most patients recover quickly with mild swelling and pain. They can resume most of their daily activities the next day but should avoid strenuous physical activities for a while.

2. Dr. Jennifer Levine's Practice

Dr. Jennifer Levine is a double - board certified facial plastic surgeon renowned for her expertise in facial balancing, including buccal fat removal procedures. Her state - of - the - art private operating suite provides excellent care and outcomes.

• Procedure details: The buccal fat removal procedure usually lasts around 30 minutes and is performed under local or IV anesthesia. The intraoral approach is used, which is considered the safest and minimizes scarring.
• Benefits: Patients can expect increased jawline definition, contoured cheekbones, a leaner and more defined face, long - lasting results, an efficient procedure, and minimized recovery time.
• Candidates: Patients with fuller cheeks that contribute to a “chipmunk cheeks” or “baby face” look, who are close to their goal weight and have realistic expectations, are good candidates.

3. Manhattan Surgical Care

Dr. Pakeman at Manhattan Surgical Care performs buccal fat pad removal to reduce the appearance of lower cheek fullness or “chipmunk cheeks.”

• Procedure details: The procedure can take as little as 30 minutes. A small incision is made inside the back of the mouth across from the upper molars, and a portion of the fat pad is removed. The incision is closed with a suture, and there is no scarring on the face.
• Benefits: It offers reduction of lower cheek volume, enhancement of upper cheek and cheekbone contour, triangulation of facial shape, and creation of a more slender facial contour.
• Recovery: Swelling is normal after the procedure and may last for one to two weeks. Full results may take up to three or more months to settle in.

4. Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue

Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Shafer at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue focuses on providing beautiful and natural - looking results for buccal fat pad removal.

• Procedure details: The buccal fat pad removal surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made along the inside of the mouth, so there are no visible post - surgical marks.
• Candidates: Good candidates have excess fat in the cheeks, are in good overall health, are unhappy with the chubby appearance of their cheeks, and have realistic expectations.
• Recovery: Patients are provided with post - operative instructions. It can take a few weeks for the swelling to dissipate, and patients should follow the surgeon's instructions for a smooth recovery.

5. Dr. Douglas Steinbrech's Practice

Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a highly - regarded plastic surgeon in New York. His buccal fat pad removal procedure aims to eliminate cheek fullness and create a sculpted, angular appearance.

• Procedure details: The procedure takes about 30 minutes. After cleaning the mouth and administering local anesthesia, a small 1 - 2 - cm incision is made inside the mouth, behind the upper molars. The fat pad is pulled out, its blood vessel is cauterized, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
• Benefits: Patients can experience enhanced facial contours, a youthful appearance, and minimal downtime.
• Recovery: Patients may notice a little swelling and mild discomfort after the procedure. They can typically return to work and normal activities within 2 - 3 days.

6. Dr. Joshua Zimm's Practice

Dr. Joshua Zimm is a double - board certified facial plastic surgeon. His practice offers buccal fat removal in a welcoming and compassionate environment.

• Procedure details: The buccal fat reduction surgery can be performed in the office using local anesthetic and takes approximately 30 - 45 minutes. An incision is made on the inside of the cheek, the fat pad is removed, and the incision is closed with absorbable stitches.
• Benefits: It enhances the appearance of the cheekbones, treats an overly round facial structure, and can boost self - confidence.
• Recovery: A soft diet is recommended for the first week. Minor discomfort and swelling are short - lived. Patients can return to work the day after the procedure and resume light exercise as tolerated.

7. Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD

Dr. Joshua D. Rosenberg is one of the top facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons in New York. He offers buccal fat pad removal to address “chipmunk cheeks” and slim the face.

• Procedure: Often performed in combination with other procedures like facelift, chin liposuction, or chin implants. The goal is to create a svelte appearance that balances the facial features.
• Benefits: It can help both genders and adults of all ages achieve a more contoured and defined facial appearance.
• Patient suitability: Ideal for those with chubby or fatty cheeks who want to enhance their facial shape.

8. Steven Wallach MD, FACS

Dr. Steven Wallach performs buccal fat removal to reduce the fullness in the mid - to lower - cheek area.

• Procedure details: The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia and usually takes less than an hour. It is done through an intraoral incision, and the fat is removed and the incision is closed with absorbable sutures.
• Cost: Buccal fat pad removal can cost about $5000 - $7500.
• Recovery: Patients are instructed to avoid certain foods and be careful with toothbrushing. Sutures usually dissolve, and recovery is relatively straightforward.

Comparing the Hospitals

When choosing a hospital for buccal fat pad removal, it's important to consider several factors. Here is a comparison table to help you make an informed decision:

Cost Considerations

The cost of buccal fat pad removal can vary significantly depending on several factors. These include the surgeon's experience, the location of the hospital, the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, and whether any additional procedures are performed. It's important to remember that choosing a surgeon based solely on cost may not be the best approach. A more experienced and skilled surgeon may charge more but can also provide better results and reduce the risk of complications.

Insurance companies generally classify buccal fat pad removal as a cosmetic procedure, so it is usually not covered by insurance. However, some hospitals may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost.

Recovery and After - Care

Proper recovery and after - care are essential for achieving the best results from buccal fat pad removal. Here are some general guidelines:

• Swelling and discomfort: Mild swelling and discomfort are normal after the procedure. Ice packs can be used to reduce swelling, and over - the - counter pain medications may be taken as prescribed by the surgeon.
• Oral hygiene: Since the incisions are made inside the mouth, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene. Rinsing the mouth with a gentle antiseptic mouthwash after meals and avoiding hard or crunchy foods can help prevent infection and aid in healing.
• Activity restrictions: Patients should avoid strenuous physical activities for a few weeks after the procedure to allow the body to heal properly. Exercise can be gradually resumed as advised by the surgeon.
• Follow - up appointments: Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor the healing process and ensure that the results are satisfactory. The surgeon can also address any concerns or questions during these appointments.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, buccal fat pad removal carries some risks and potential complications. These include:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection, especially due to the intraoral incisions. Following the surgeon's post - operative instructions regarding oral hygiene can help minimize this risk.
• Bleeding and hematoma: Some patients may experience post - surgical bleeding or the formation of hematomas. This is usually minor but may require medical attention if excessive.
• 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. Experienced surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk.
• Asymmetry: Minor asymmetry can occur due to natural variations