While many facial procedures focus on adding volume, Buccal Fat Removal is a procedure of refinement and subtraction. At The Plastics Atelier in Omaha, Nebraska, Dr. Brad Hall performs this targeted surgery to reduce fullness in the lower cheeks, highlighting the cheekbones and creating a more chiseled, contoured facial structure.

The goal is not just a "slimmer" face, but a balanced one where the underlying bone structure is elegantly revealed.

What is the Buccal Fat Pad?

The buccal fat pad is a naturally occurring pocket of fat located in the hollow area beneath the cheekbones. While this fat provides a youthful "roundness" to the face in childhood, for some adults, these pads remain prominent, creating a "baby-faced" appearance or a lack of definition in the midface regardless of body weight.

Dr. Hall views buccal fat removal as a strategic adjustment. Because facial fat naturally diminishes with age, he uses a conservative approach to ensure that the results look sophisticated today and do not lead to an overly "hollowed" look.

Candidates for Buccal Fat Pad Reduction

This procedure is highly effective for patients in Omaha who feel their face is disproportionately round or "bottom-heavy." You may be a candidate if:

• You have persistent fullness in the lower cheeks (the "chipmunk cheek" area).

• You desire a more angular or "snatched" jawline and cheekbone appearance.

• You are at a stable, healthy weight, yet your face remains round.

• You have realistic expectations about how subtle structural changes can enhance your overall facial harmony.

The Procedure: Hidden Incisions, Minimal Downtime

One of the most appealing aspects of buccal fat removal at The Plastics Atelier is the lack of visible scarring.

1. The Incision: Dr. Hall creates a small, 1–2 cm incision on the inside of the mouth, through the inner cheek.

2. The Removal: The buccal fat pad is gently teased through the incision. Dr. Hall carefully removes the appropriate amount of fat to achieve the desired contour.

3. The Closure: The incision is closed with a few absorbable sutures that dissolve on their own.

• Anesthesia: Can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on patient preference and whether it is combined with other procedures.

• Duration: The procedure typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.

Recovery and Results

Because the incisions are internal, the recovery is generally straightforward:

• Initial Healing: Most patients experience swelling similar to having wisdom teeth removed. This is most prominent for the first 3 to 5 days.

• Diet: You will be advised to stick to a soft-food or liquid diet for the first few days and use a specialized mouthwash to keep the incision sites clean.

• Timeline: Most patients return to work within 3 days.

• The Final Look: While you will see a change quickly, your "final" chiseled results will emerge over 2 to 3 months as the internal swelling fully dissipates and the skin settles into the new contour.

Refine Your Profile at The Plastics Atelier

If you are ready to trade "roundness" for "definition," schedule a consultation with Dr. Brad Hall. Our Omaha practice is dedicated to providing surgical results that are as precise as they are beautiful.

Contact The Plastics Atelier at 402-603-0080 or request your private consultation online.