Buccal Fat Removal vs. Dimpleplasty

Buccal Fat Removal and Dimpleplasty are both types of cheek surgery which address different concerns relating to the shape and contour of the cheeks and lower face.

As the cheeks make up a large proportion of the face, their shape can have a significant effect on the overall appearance of the face.

Two popular options for addressing cheek concerns are:

• Buccal Fat Removal
• Dimpleplasty

Although related, these simple, yet transformative procedures are performed to address different concerns and achieve different results. When considering cheek surgery, it is important to understand the various options available to decide which is the most appropriate procedure to meet your needs.

Cadogan Clinic’s team of expert Consultant Facial Surgeons are highly experienced in performing both Buccal Fat Removal and Dimpleplasty.

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal Fat Removal is a cheek contouring procedure which slims the lower face, and accentuates the cheekbones, creating a defined and contoured appearance.

Buccal Fat Removal involves:

• A small incision is made on the inside of each cheek
• The entire buccal fat pad is removed from the lower cheek, above the jawline
• The incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches

To emphasise the desirable ‘V’ shape which many individuals are aiming to achieve from Buccal Fat Removal, other procedures such as Chin Liposuction may be performed at the same time.

Buccal Fat Removal can be performed under local or general anaesthetic, and usually takes less than an hour to complete.

What is Dimpleplasty?

Dimpleplasty is also a cheek contouring procedure, which creates the appearance of dimples, small indentations in the cheeks, which appear when smiling. Dimples can enhance facial expression and give a distinctive appearance.

To create dimples, during Dimpleplasty:

• A small incision is made on the inside of each cheek
• The underside of the cheek skin is stitched to the underlying muscle using dissolvable stitches
• The incisions are closed using dissolvable stitches.

Dimpleplasty can be combined with other facial procedures to achieve a comprehensive rejuvenation of the lower face:

• Facelift
• Chin Liposuction
• Lip Lift

Dimpleplasty is usually performed under local anaesthetic and takes less than an hour to complete.

Buccal Fat Removal vs. Dimpleplasty: Differences in Results

Although both Buccal Fat Removal and Dimpleplasty rejuvenate the appearance of the cheeks and overall face, they achieve different results.

Buccal Fat Removal Results

Buccal Fat Removal addresses the fat pads within the cheeks.

Results from Buccal Fat Removal include:

• Slimmer, more defined cheeks
• Improved lower face contours
• Balanced and harmonious facial proportions

Dimpleplasty Results

Dimpleplasty involves repositioning the cheeks’ overlying skin.

Dimpleplasty results will include:

• The creation of dimples on one or both sides of the face
• Enhanced and distinctive facial expression
• Proportionate facial balance and symmetry

Buccal Fat Removal vs. Dimpleplasty: Differences in Recovery

Recovery times for Buccal Fat Removal and Dimpleplasty depend on the nature of the procedure, as well as factors affecting your personal health. Your surgeon will discuss your recovery period during your initial consultation to allow you to prepare.

Recovery for both Buccal Fat Removal and Dimpleplasty is usually straightforward and relatively fast. The inside of the mouth typically heals quickly, and the use of dissolvable sutures also benefits overall recovery.

All cheek surgery procedures at Cadogan Clinic include a comprehensive aftercare package to support you throughout your recovery.

• Two follow-up appointments – An appointment with our specialist nurses 7-10 days, and another with your surgeon 6 weeks after your procedure
• 24/7 recovery assistance – 24-hour phone line connecting you with our specialist surgical nurses to help you with any questions or concerns
• Medication – Any post-operative medication is provided by your medical team before you are discharged

Buccal Fat Removal Recovery

• Swelling and bruising – It is normal to experience some swelling and bruising around the cheeks which heals within 10-14 days
• Food – To protect the incisions inside the mouth, it is important to eat only soft and liquid foods for up to 2 weeks after surgery
• Wound care – It is essential to keep the area clean to prevent infection
• Exercise – You should avoid strenuous activity and exercise for at least 4 weeks after surgery
• Full recovery – You should be fully recovered within 4-6 weeks

Dimpleplasty Recovery

• Swelling and bruising - Swelling and bruising around the cheeks is normal and typically heals within 10-14 days
• Food – Your surgeon will request that you only eat soft and liquid foods for the first 2 weeks of your recovery to protect the incisions
• Wound care – You will be given instructions on keeping the surgery area clean to prevent infection
• Exercise – You should avoid exercise and strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks after surgery
• Full recovery – Full recovery after Dimpleplasty usually takes 4-6 weeks

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