Buccal Fat Removal in NYC

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THE PROCEDURE

Buccal Fat Removal in New York City

A buccal fat Removal aims to remove excess fat from the cheek area to provide a more sculpted facial appearance. The removed fat can then be Removalred to other face areas to complement the removal and create more noticeable, more natural results. However, this does not need to be the case, the buccal fat removal is a stand-alone procedure for many patients and will not be combined with a Removal of the fat.

Buccal Fat Removal Surgery

After administration of an anesthetic and confirming patient comfort, incisions are placed on the inside of the cheek. The buccal fat pad is then identified and safely removed. The incisions are closed using absorbable sutures, resulting in no visible scarring after healing. A buccal fat reduction in New York City is a quick procedure that reduces the fullness of the lower face and improves the “chubby cheek” appearance.

Am I a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Pad Removal in New York City?

An ideal candidate often has full or chubby cheeks which they are self-conscious about and wish to undergo this procedure. Before deciding to undergo a buccal fat removal procedure, it is important you are doing it for yourself and not conform to someone else’s beauty expectations.

Good candidates for the procedure should be:

In good physical and mental health
Have realistic goals for the procedure
Stable in their weight
Non-smokers

If you are unsure whether a buccal fat pad surgery is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Zimm who can determine if the procedure is appropriate and answer all your questions.

Why Choose Dr. Zimm for a Buccal Fat Removal?

Dr. Zimm is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City, holding certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Zimm’s extensive training allows him to provide patients with exceptional care in a welcoming, compassionate environment.

Dr. Zimm has been recognized as one of “America’s Top Physicians” by the Consumer Research Council of America in 2013, 2010, 2009, and 2007, as well as is a Lifetime Member of Strathmore’s Who’s Who which was awarded to him in 2004.

Joshua Zimm, M.D., P.C., is located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side where patients can receive a world-class experience and unparalleled patient experience with exceptional results.

How Much Does a Buccal Fat Removal Cost?

The cost of cheek fat removal in New York City can range from $4,000 to $8,000, depending on the need for additional procedures and many other factors. When determining the final price, the factors considered include the surgeon’s experience, the extent of surgery, additional procedures, and associated support staff and surgical fees that must be covered.

Experienced facial plastic surgeons provide improved results and a lower risk of complications when undergoing cosmetic procedures. This results in expert surgeons being in higher demand, which correlates to higher prices but reduces the risk of needing additional surgery.

What to Expect Before, During, and After a Buccal Fat Reduction

Before the Procedure

During the initial consultation, Dr. Zimm will evaluate the cheeks and face to determine if a buccal fat pad surgery is appropriate. A review of your medical history will be performed to ensure the procedure is safe. Finally, after a discussion with you, a customized plan will be formulated to provide the best results and achieve a narrower, more contoured facial appearance.

During Your Fat Pad Procedure

A buccal fat reduction surgery can be performed in the office using local anesthetic and typically takes approximately 30–45 minutes to complete. Dr. Zimm will make an incision on the inside of the cheek leaving no visible scar. Using this incision, the buccal fat pad is identified and removed. The incision is then closed using absorbable stitches. As this procedure is done under a local anesthetic, you can drive home after the procedure.

The Recovery Process

During the first week following the procedure, a soft diet is recommended to help protect the incision while it heals. This typically means no sharp, hard foods like pretzels or tortilla chips. Minor discomfort and swelling should be expected but due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, this is often short-lived.

Light exercise and activities can resume as tolerated after the procedure, but any strenuous exercise should be avoided for two weeks. Patients typically return to work the day after the procedure.

Results will start to be appreciated as early as two to three weeks after the procedure and will continue to improve after the procedure for six to nine months.

REVIEWS

FEATURED testimonials

"I am very happy with the results."

“Prior to the consultation, I was very uneasy about getting fillers in my cheeks because I didn’t want to look unnatural or feminine. Dr. Zimm senses my concerns and was very patient…before leaving his office, I knew exactly what to expect over the next few days after the injection. All in all, I am very happy with the results and I’m glad I found Dr. Zimm’s office.”

"My breathing is significantly improved and the cosmetic portion was beautifully done."

“…As a healthcare provider myself, I have worked with many physicians over the years and I can attest to his competence and professionalism. His practice is extremely well run and his excellent bedside manner, astute medical knowledge and involvement in the latest research put me at ease and allowed for me to completely trust his abilities… His passion for his field of work is evident, and I am extremely satisfied with the outcome of my sinus reconstruction and rhinoplasty -- my breathing is significantly improved and the cosmetic portion is beautifully done.”

"World-class Surgeon with a Small-town Manner"

“I was really impressed by how much he knew about state-of-the art surgical techniques and practiced them. He is clearly an extremely skilled surgeon. He is also a very intelligent and kind person. As someone who doesn't love the idea of surgery, I felt comfortable and confident… As someone who works as a professor and an artist, I can say that Dr. Zimm sets a high bar for engaging with people and teaching them about their condition, for putting people at ease and building trust, and for clearly being passionate about both the artistry and the technical dexterity of his work. I couldn't recommend him more.”

"He won me by his demeanor, his experience, strive for perfection and honesty."

“Need a perfect, natural-looking nose? Go nowhere else but to Dr. Zimm!...Being involved in the industry myself, I went to 13 different rhinoplasty consultations in NYC to find the right surgeon. After hearing lots of opinions, prices and seeing different images of the "perfect" nose, I chose Dr. Zimm. He won me by his demeanor, his experience, strive for perfection and honesty. He also didn't have a "signature" nose he puts on every one of his patients (walk around the UES and you'll know what I'm talking about). He is truly an amazing surgeon and anyone who works with him at the hospital will tell you the same.”

"Dr. Zimm made me feel as though he was treating a friend or family member."

“Working in the industry I have had the opportunity to work with many surgeons and am always very particular when choosing a physician myself, family, friends and so forth. Dr. Zimm recently performed a Blepharoplasty on me in his office. I consulted with 10 surgeons before moving forward and scheduling this surgery. Without hesitation, I have to say I could not have made a better choice in surgeons!!!! Dr. Zimm was confident and competent, he also had a wonderful bedside manner and made me feel as though he was treating a friend or family member of his own. Fantastic! Not to mention the results are amazing!!!! Completely natural, but amazing Thank you Dr. Zimm!!!!!!”

"Warm and extremely professional"

I am not one to write reviews, but Dr. Zimm deserves one. I had numerous consultations with other top rhinoplasty surgeons across the country but as soon as I had my consultation with Dr. Zimm, I immediately felt he was the right surgeon for me. I am very thankful I chose him. Heather and his entire staff have been warm and extremely professional. He is a brilliant surgeon. I can’t say enough positive things about my experience and would recommend him to anyone looking for a kind, patient, artistic surgeon.

"From the moment you step into Dr. Zimm's office you feel at ease."

"I spent the bulk of my life feeling self conscious about how my ears were set on my head, and I started to look around for surgeons for my otoplasty to help correct them. After my first meeting with Dr. Zimm, I cancelled my remaining consultations with other surgeons. Dr. Zimm and his staff make you feel at ease and informed at every step of the process. From the consistent and clear communication all the way through to the fantastic results and follow up care, Dr. Zimm was without a doubt the right choice to handle my case. Thank you Dr. Zimm and team!"

Are Buccal Fat Pad Surgeries Covered by Insurance?

Insurance companies generally classify buccal fat pad removals as cosmetic procedures, and as a result, these procedures are generally not covered by insurance plans. However, during the initial consultation, Dr. Zimm will go over the expected costs and any financing options available to help you make a more informed decision.

What Are the Benefits of a Fat Pad Removal?

During a buccal fat pad removal, excess natural fat is removed from the cheek area, enhancing the appearance of the cheekbones and treating an overly round facial structure. This minimally invasive procedure produces subtle cosmetic changes, enhancing facial features without sacrificing your innate beauty. The narrower, more contoured appearance can help boost one’s self-esteem and give you a new sense of confidence.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

As with any procedure, bleeding and infection are risks associated with this surgery. Additionally, nearby structures, such as the parotid duct and the buccal branch of the facial nerve are at risk during the procedure. Fortunately, Dr. Zimm is fully aware of the anatomy and uses a meticulous surgical technique to prevent damage to these structures. Although this is a quick procedure, it requires extensive knowledge and training to safely perform this procedure, and selecting a board-certified facial plastic surgeon will help reduce the risks of complications.

Schedule a Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Manhattan

If you have struggled with an overly round face and have been unable to improve the appearance by conservative measures, a buccal fat pad removal surgery may be right for you. Experience an improved self-confidence and take the first steps to a narrower, more contoured face.

With Dr. Zimm, you will experience a personalized approach to exceptional results. Call our office at (646) 513-2142 today to schedule your consultation.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How long does buccal fat surgery last?

The results of a buccal fat pad removal are permanent. Once the fat pads are removed, there is no possibility of them growing back. However, if you have a significant weight gain after the procedure, some of the results will be masked by the extra weight. Therefore, it is recommended patients have a stable weight before and after the procedure to allow for consistent results.

How successful is buccal fat removal?

When performed in the right patient, a buccal fat pad removal is very successful in reducing excess subcutaneous fat in the cheeks. After the procedure, many will experience reduced fullness and highlighted cheekbones, giving the face a slimmer, more sculpted appearance.

Buccal fat procedures are considered to be efficient and relatively safe procedures for reducing the rounded appearance of the face. However, the safety of this procedure is directly related to having an experienced surgeon with extensive knowledge of facial anatomy.

Will my face sag after buccal fat removal?

After the procedure, it is uncommon to have significant sagging of the skin or face, but over time as the face ages, some people have noted that their face begins to look older than their stated age. This is a result of the natural aging process.

During aging, it is natural to lose some fat and muscle volume on the face. This can intensify the slimming effect of buccal fat removal and lead to sagging of the skin. Thus, to some extent, having some buccal fat within the face can help preserve a smoother, more youthful appearance as a person ages.

Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal?

Buccal fat removal is an elective procedure and is the personal choice of the patient. This procedure is ideal for men and women who desire more prominent cheekbones or a less rounded face. However, individual characteristics and facial structure can cause results to vary from person to person. Patients undergoing the procedure should be in good physical and mental health, have realistic expectations of the procedure, and be non-smokers.

Weight changes can have a significant effect on the volume of fat within the cheeks and alter the results of this procedure. A substantial weight loss can accentuate the narrow appearance and result in an overly gaunt look. Whereas a substantial weight gain can result in the procedure’s effects being less noticeable. Ideal patients should have achieved their desired weight before considering this procedure.