Facial Aesthetics
Buccal Fat Pad Removal (BFPR)
“Slim the cheeks, sharpen the charm.”
What is BFPR?
Buccal Fat Pad Removal is a cosmetic procedure designed to slim and contour the cheeks by reducing excess fat from the lower face. Some people naturally have fuller, rounder cheeks due to prominent buccal fat pads, which can make the face appear less defined.
The result is a more sculpted, refined, and contoured look—highlighting the cheekbones and jawline for a balanced, elegant profile.
Who is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
You may be suitable for this procedure if you have:
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round or chubby cheeks
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fullness in the lower face
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poorly defined cheekbones
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face looks heavier in photos/selfies
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desire for slimmer, contoured face shape
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“moon face” appearance despite weight control
It is ideal for patients with thick or full cheeks, not for those already very thin-faced. A proper clinical assessment determines suitability.
Who Should Avoid Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
This procedure may not be recommended if you have:
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naturally thin or hollow cheeks
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advanced age with facial volume loss
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unrealistic expectations
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certain medical conditions or blood-thinning medications
A consultation determines suitability and safety.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Pad Removal
This procedure can help:
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slim and contour lower cheeks
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enhance cheekbones and jawline definition
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create a V-shaped or heart-shaped face
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reduce “baby-face” look
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improve facial proportions
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increase self-confidence
Results are subtle and natural — not hollow or unhealthy-looking.
Buccal Fat Removal vs Weight Loss
Facial chubbiness is not always due to body fat. Some people remain round-faced even after dieting and exercise. That is because buccal fat pads are genetic fat compartments, not general body fat.
Weight loss cannot specifically remove this cheek fat — surgery can.
How is it done?
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or sometimes general anesthesia.
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Incision: A small cut is made inside the mouth, on the inner cheek, so there are no visible scars on the face.
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Fat Removal: The surgeon gently exposes the buccal fat pad and carefully removes or reduces the desired amount.
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Closure: The incision inside the mouth is closed with dissolvable stitches.
The surgery typically takes about 30–60 minutes, and patients go home the same day.
Recovery After Buccal Fat Pad Removal
After surgery, patients may expect:
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mild swelling for 1–2 weeks
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temporary soreness inside the cheeks
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chewing difficulty for a few days
Recovery timeline:
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soft diet: 3–5 days
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routine work: 2–3 days
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swelling settles: 2–3 weeks
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final contour: 3–6 months
Antibiotics and mouthwash are usually prescribed for healing.
Complications
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Swelling & Bruising: Common in the first days after surgery, usually settles on its own.
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Infection: Rare, but possible since the incision is inside the mouth.
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Bleeding: Collection of blood under the tissue, uncommon but treatable.
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Asymmetry: Unequal removal of fat may make one cheek look different from the other.
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Injury to Nearby Structures: The facial nerve and salivary ducts lie close to the surgical area; injury is rare but possible.
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Excess Hollowing: If too much fat is removed, cheeks can look prematurely gaunt or aged.
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Scarring Inside the Mouth: Usually minimal and not visible.
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Temporary Numbness: Usually resolves as nerves recover.
A key point to remember is that the buccal fat pad does not grow back once removed. That means over-resection or performing this procedure in patients who may naturally lose facial fat with age could lead to an overly hollow look in the long run.
Why Patients in Pakistan Choose Dr. Saud Majid
With experience since 2020 in plastic and cosmetic surgery, Dr. Saud Majid focuses on honest guidance, realistic expectations, and natural-looking outcomes.
Book Consultation — Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Islamabad
For honest assessment and personalized advice:
Consultation includes:
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facial evaluation
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discussion of suitability
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realistic outcome planning
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explanation of recovery and risks