Buccal Fat Removal vs. Cheek Fillers: What's Right for Your Facial Contour?

Key Points

•  Buccal fat removal surgically reduces fullness in the lower cheeks for a more sculpted look
• Cheek fillers add volume to enhance cheekbones and create definition non-surgically
• Buccal fat removal offers permanent results with a longer recovery period
• Dermal fillers provide temporary contouring with minimal downtime
• Your facial structure, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle help determine the best option
• Both procedures can complement each other depending on your unique needs
  

If you've been scrolling through social media or browsing beauty forums lately, chances are you've seen buzzwords like "snatched cheekbones" and "sculpted face" popping up everywhere. Facial contouring has become one of the hottest topics in aesthetic medicine, and two of the most popular options are buccal fat removal and cheek fillers.

But here's the thing: these two treatments do completely different things. One takes away, the other adds. One's surgical, the other isn't. So how do you know which one is right for your facial contour goals?

At Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery in Brentwood, TN, Dr. Ashley Guthrie helps patients navigate these decisions every day. Let's break down what each procedure actually does, who they're best for, and how to figure out which path makes sense for you.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that removes the buccal fat pads from your lower cheeks. These are natural fat deposits that sit between your cheekbone and jawline, and they're what give some people that "chipmunk cheek" or rounder lower face appearance.

The goal? A more defined, contoured look, especially in the midface and jawline area. Think of it as strategically slimming down the parts of your face that might make your features look fuller than you'd like.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?

This procedure isn't for everyone. Good candidates typically have:

• Naturally fuller cheeks that don't slim down with weight loss
• A rounder facial shape they'd like to refine
• Good skin elasticity (so your skin can adapt to the new contour)
• Realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve

Younger patients in their 20s and 30s often pursue buccal fat reduction, but it's important to consider that facial fat naturally diminishes as we age. Removing too much fat early on could lead to a hollow or gaunt appearance down the road.

Dr. Guthrie carefully evaluates your facial structure during your consultation to make sure buccal fat removal will enhance your features rather than create an overly hollow look as you age.

What to Expect: Procedure and Recovery

Buccal fat removal is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and Dr. Guthrie's recommendation. Small incisions are made inside your mouth (so no visible scars), and the buccal fat pads are carefully removed.

The whole procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Recovery involves some swelling and discomfort for the first week or so. Most patients can return to work within a few days, but you'll need to stick to soft foods and avoid strenuous activity for a couple of weeks.

Results? They're permanent. Once those fat pads are gone, they're gone for good. You'll start seeing your new contour emerge as swelling goes down over the next few weeks, with final results visible around three to six months.

What Do Cheek Fillers Do?

Now let's talk about the flip side: dermal fillers. Unlike buccal fat removal, cheek fillers don't take anything away. Instead, they add volume exactly where you want it to create definition and lift.

Injectable fillers (usually hyaluronic acid-based products like Juvéderm Voluma or Restylane Lyft) are strategically placed in the cheeks to:

• Enhance your cheekbones
• Add volume to areas that have lost fullness over time
• Create a lifted, more youthful appearance
• Improve overall facial balance

While buccal fat removal slims the lower cheeks, fillers typically focus on the upper and mid-cheek area to create that coveted high cheekbone look.

Who's a Good Candidate for Cheek Fillers?

Cheek fillers work well for people who:

• Want more prominent or defined cheekbones
• Have lost volume in the midface due to aging
• Prefer a non-surgical option with no downtime
• Want to test out facial contouring before committing to surgery
• Have flatter facial features they'd like to enhance

Basically, if you want to add structure and lift rather than reduce fullness, fillers are probably your answer.

What to Expect: Procedure and Results

Getting cheek fillers is quick and relatively painless. The treatment takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and Dr. Guthrie uses a fine needle or cannula to inject the filler precisely where it's needed. You might feel a slight pinch or pressure, but most modern fillers contain lidocaine to keep you comfortable.

Downtime? Minimal. You might have some minor swelling or bruising for a day or two, but most people head right back to their normal routine. Results are immediate, though they'll settle and look even better over the next week or so.

Here's the catch: dermal fillers aren't permanent. Depending on the product used and your body's metabolism, results typically last anywhere from 12 to 24 months. That means you'll need maintenance treatments to keep your look.

Buccal Fat Removal vs. Cheek Fillers: The Key Differences

Let's put them side by side so you can see how they stack up:

Buccal Fat Removal:

• Surgical procedure
• Removes volume from lower cheeks
• Permanent results
• Recovery time of 1 to 2 weeks
• Best for those with naturally fuller cheeks
• Creates a slimmer, more angular look

Cheek Fillers:

• Non-surgical injectable treatment
• Adds volume to upper/mid cheeks
• Temporary results (12 to 24 months)
• Little to no downtime
• Best for those wanting more definition or lost volume
• Creates a lifted, enhanced look

The big takeaway? These treatments address opposite concerns. Buccal fat removal is about reduction and sculpting, while cheek fillers are about enhancement and volume.

Can You Combine Buccal Fat Removal and Cheek Fillers?

Absolutely! In fact, some patients get the best results by combining both approaches. Here's how that works:

Removing buccal fat slims the lower cheeks, while strategically placed fillers in the upper cheeks can enhance your cheekbones and create even more dramatic definition. It's like carving out the bottom while highlighting the top, giving you that sculpted, model-like contour.

Dr. Guthrie can help you develop a comprehensive facial contouring plan that might include both procedures, either done together or staged over time. Other complementary treatments like neurotoxin injectables or even rhinoplasty might also play a role in achieving your ideal facial balance.

How to Decide Which Option Is Right for You

Choosing between buccal fat removal and cheek fillers comes down to a few key factors:

Your Facial Structure: Do you have excess fullness in your lower cheeks, or are you lacking volume in your upper cheeks? Sometimes it's both, which might mean a combination approach is best.

Your Goals: Are you looking for permanent facial slimming, or do you want to add definition and lift? Be honest about what you're trying to achieve.

Your Lifestyle: Can you commit to downtime and recovery for surgery, or do you need a quick lunch-break treatment? Do you mind touch-up appointments every year or two for fillers?

Your Age: Younger patients might benefit from buccal fat removal, while older patients who've lost volume might be better suited for fillers. Then again, everyone's different, and aging patterns vary.

Professional Guidance: This is the most important factor. A skilled facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Ashley Guthrie can evaluate your unique anatomy and recommend the approach that will give you the most natural, beautiful results.

Common Myths About Facial Contouring

Let's clear up some confusion:

"Will cheek fillers make my face look puffy?" Not when done correctly. Dr. Guthrie uses precise injection techniques and conservative amounts to create natural-looking definition without an overfilled appearance. Cheek fillers should enhance your bone structure, not make you look swollen.

"Is buccal fat removal reversible?" No. Once the fat pads are removed, they don't grow back. That's why it's so important to work with an experienced surgeon who understands facial proportions and aging. You want results that look great now and will continue to look natural as you get older.

"Everyone needs buccal fat removal to get a contoured face." Definitely not. Some people naturally have defined cheekbones and don't need any fat removal at all. Others might actually need volume added rather than taken away. Social media trends don't always translate to real-life aesthetics, and what works for one face might not work for yours.

What to Expect During Your Consultation at Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery

When you come in to discuss facial contouring options, Dr. Guthrie will take the time to really understand what you're hoping to achieve. She'll examine your facial structure, discuss your concerns, and explain which treatments align with your goals.

You'll also have the chance to look at before-and-after photos of real patients who've had these procedures. This helps set realistic expectations and gives you a sense of what's possible.

Dr. Guthrie doesn't do patch-testing for these procedures, but she will walk you through everything you need to know about preparation, the treatment itself, and recovery so you feel completely confident moving forward.

Beyond Cheeks: Other Facial Contouring Options

Facial contouring isn't just about buccal fat removal and cheek fillers. Depending on your goals, you might also consider:

• Deep plane facelift or neck lift for overall rejuvenation
• Fat transfer to naturally add volume using your own fat
• CO2 laser skin resurfacing or Morpheus8 for skin tightening and texture improvement
• Blepharoplasty to enhance the eyes and create better facial harmony

Explore all your options by visiting Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery to learn more about the full range of services available.

FAQs About Buccal Fat Removal vs. Cheek Fillers

FAQs About Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery

Ready to Sculpt Your Ideal Facial Contour in Brentwood, TN?

Whether you're leaning toward buccal fat removal, cheek fillers, or a combination of treatments, the most important step is partnering with a skilled, experienced facial plastic surgeon who understands your vision.

Dr. Ashley Guthrie brings both surgical precision and artistic sensibility to every procedure, ensuring you get results that enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. Ready to explore your options? Call Guthrie Facial Plastic Surgery at (615) 880-9500 or visit drashleyguthrie.com to schedule your consultation today.

Your perfectly contoured face is waiting.

Disclaimer:  The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, and should not be considered, medical advice. All information, content, and material available on this blog are for general informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author and the blog disclaim any liability for the decisions you make based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.