Buccal Fat Removal Introduction
Full, rounded cheeks can be a youthful feature, but for some individuals, excess volume in the lower face can create an undesired “baby-faced” or heavy appearance. Buccal fat removal at Maryland Plastic Surgery offers a way to gently refine and sculpt the mid-face, creating more defined cheekbones and a slimmer facial contour. Under the skilled hands of Dr. Adam Summers, buccal fat removal is performed with precision and artistry, helping you achieve a naturally contoured, more mature look—without appearing hollow or overdone.
Buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to slim the lower cheeks by removing excess buccal fat pads. Located deep within the cheeks, the buccal fat pads contribute to facial fullness. By carefully reducing this fat, Dr. Summers and Dr. Spittler can create a more sculpted, V-shaped facial profile. Buccal fat removal is a highly individualized procedure, tailored to enhance each patient’s natural bone structure while maintaining harmony and balance across the face.
There is one primary method for performing buccal fat removal, but it can be tailored depending on your anatomy and goals.
The standard technique involves making a small incision inside the mouth, near the upper molars. Through this discreet incision, Dr. Summers gently removes a precise amount of buccal fat to slim the cheeks. No visible external scars are created, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia or light sedation for maximum comfort.
The RE•Lift™ set of facelift procedures are long lasting, minimally invasive treatments that achieve natural results in just one hour with minimal downtime.
The key to these procedures is lifting of the fat and muscle without pulling on the skin.
Enjoy natural results without a “windswept”, pulled or stretched look. Customize your results by choosing from the following combination of procedures: Brows, Eyes, Cheeks, Jowls, and Neck.
At Maryland Plastic Surgery & PURE MedSpa, Dr. Adam Summers and Dr. Christopher Spittler bring decades of experience and artistry to every cosmetic surgery they perform. Known for their precision and natural-looking results, both surgeons take a personalized approach—starting with an in-depth consultation to understand your goals and areas of concern. Whether you’re looking to lift sagging jowls, smooth deep lines, or restore youthful contours, Dr. Summers and Dr. Spittler are committed to helping you look like the best version of yourself. Their reputation for excellence and their dedication to patient satisfaction means you’ll be in the best hands—every step of the way.
Buccal fat removal offers patients a way to refine and enhance their facial features with minimal downtime. The procedure targets stubborn fullness that typically does not respond to diet or exercise, helping patients achieve a more balanced and elegant facial appearance.
Benefits of buccal fat removal include:
A more sculpted, contoured lower face and jawline
Enhanced definition of the cheekbones
A slimmer, more V-shaped facial profile
Improved facial balance and harmony
Permanent removal of excess buccal fat for lasting results
No visible external scars
A quick recovery with minimal discomfort
Ideal candidates for buccal fat removal are those who feel that their cheeks are excessively full or round, and who desire a more sculpted or refined facial contour. It’s important that patients considering this procedure have sufficient buccal fat volume and realistic expectations about the outcome.
You may be a good candidate for buccal fat removal if you:
Feel that your cheeks appear overly full or “chubby”
Desire more definition in your mid-face or cheekbones
Are in good general health and a non-smoker
Have stable body weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle
Are looking for permanent facial slimming without major surgery
Understand that aging and future weight changes can still impact your facial contours
LET’S GET YOU STARTED
On the day of your surgery at Maryland Plastic Surgery & PURE MedSpa, you’ll be welcomed into our state-of-the-art surgical suite by Dr. Summers, Dr. Spittler, and our experienced clinical team. Before your procedure begins, we’ll review your surgical plan with you once more — giving you a final opportunity to ask questions or share any last-minute thoughts. Our goal is to ensure you feel completely comfortable, confident, and cared for every step of the way.
A board-certified anesthesiologist will then administer the appropriate anesthesia, which will have been carefully selected and discussed during your consultation to ensure a pain-free, relaxed experience throughout your procedure.
Once your ideal results have been achieved, your surgeon will carefully close the incisions using advanced suturing techniques designed to support healing and minimize visible scarring. In some cases, a small drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and support a smoother recovery process.
Buccal fat removal is performed as an outpatient procedure in our private surgical suite at Maryland Plastic Surgery. The surgery typically takes less than an hour to complete. After administering local anesthesia or light sedation, Dr. Summers will make small incisions inside your mouth to access and carefully remove the appropriate amount of buccal fat. Once the desired contour is achieved, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
Because the incisions are inside the mouth, there are no visible scars. After surgery, you will spend a short time in recovery before heading home the same day, with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth during the healing process.
Recovery from buccal fat removal is generally quick and well-tolerated. Some patients experience mild swelling, bruising inside the cheeks, or temporary numbness. Most swelling subsides significantly within the first week, but final results continue to refine over the next few months as the tissues settle into their new shape.
You can typically resume light daily activities within a day or two. Dr. Summers may recommend a soft diet for the first few days to minimize tension on the incision sites and promote proper healing. It’s important to follow all aftercare instructions to ensure the best outcome.
FAIR & TRANSPARENT PRICING
The cost of buccal fat removal at Maryland Plastic Surgery can vary depending on your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. On average, patients can expect the price to range from $3,500 to $5,000.
During your private consultation, Dr. Summers will perform a detailed evaluation, listen carefully to your goals, and design a customized treatment plan that best addresses your needs. Once your surgical plan is finalized, our Patient Coordinator will provide you with a personalized cost breakdown and discuss available financing options.
For your convenience, we proudly partner with trusted financing providers such as PatientFi, Alphaeon Credit, and CareCredit, making it easier to move forward with your procedure on terms that fit your budget. Whether you choose to pay upfront or through a flexible monthly plan, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
For general pricing estimates on our full range of services, we invite you to visit our Pricing Page.
Yes, once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not regenerate. However, future weight fluctuations or aging can still affect the appearance of your cheeks over time.
No. All incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no visible external scars.
While initial swelling subsides within the first 1–2 weeks, it may take several months to see the final, fully sculpted result as the tissues settle naturally.
When performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Summers, buccal fat removal is carefully tailored to enhance your natural features without creating a hollow or aged appearance.
Yes, many patients choose to combine buccal fat removal with other facial procedures, such as a chin implant, liposuction, or non-surgical treatments, to enhance overall facial balance.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort, describing a mild soreness similar to what you might feel after dental work.
You’ll receive specific pre-operative instructions, such as avoiding certain medications, maintaining good oral hygiene, and arranging for a responsible adult to drive you home.
Buccal fat removal specifically targets fullness in the lower cheeks. It will not significantly change other areas like the jawline or neck, although it can enhance the overall facial shape.
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, asymmetry, or prolonged swelling. Dr. Summers’ meticulous technique minimizes these risks and prioritizes your safety and aesthetic outcome.
Patients with very thin faces or those prone to significant facial aging may not be ideal candidates, as excessive fat removal can lead to a gaunt appearance over time. A thorough consultation ensures proper candidacy.
Financing is available to ensure your dream results fit comfortably within your budget.
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