What is Buccal Fat Pad Removal?
Buccal fat removal in Sydney, also known as buccal fat pad removal, is a facial contouring procedure that reduces fullness in the lower cheeks. Some patients naturally carry more volume through the mid-to-lower cheek region, even at a healthy weight. As a result, the face can appear rounder or less defined. For this reason, some patients also explore definition-enhancing procedures such as chin augmentation or facial fat injections, depending on whether the concern relates to projection, contour, or age-related volume loss.
The buccal fat pad is a specific area of fat that is deep in the cheek. Buccal fat pad removal targets this area. Unlike facial liposuction, which can reduce fat more broadly across the face and neck, buccal fat surgery targets a discrete fat pocket. Therefore, the procedure can refine cheek contour in carefully selected patients.
Importantly, not everyone is a suitable candidate. Dr. Tim assesses facial anatomy, skin quality, and age-related volume changes during a consultation before recommending buccal fat pad removal. In addition, Dr Tim may discuss complementary options such as facial implants or lip augmentation where overall facial balance is the priority.
Technical Explanation of the Procedure
Buccal fat pad removal is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the surgical plan and patient preferences. Furthermore, Dr Tim may discuss whether other facial contouring procedures such as neck lift or facelift (rhytidectomy) are more appropriate when skin laxity, jowling, or soft-tissue descent contributes to facial fullness.
During surgery, A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS):
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makes a small incision inside the mouth near the upper molars
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identifies and carefully releases the buccal fat pad
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removes a controlled portion of the fat pad (rather than aggressively removing all fat). Importantly, facial volume naturally reduces with age. Therefore, selected patients may benefit more from restoration options such as facial fat injections rather than fat removal alone.
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closes the incision using dissolvable sutures
Because the incision is inside the mouth, the procedure typically does not leave visible scars. In addition, Dr Tim uses precise techniques to protect surrounding structures and maintain natural facial proportions.
Tailored Planning and Expected Outcomes
Buccal fat pad removal aims to refine cheek contour while preserving balanced facial shape. However, outcomes vary between individuals. For this reason, Dr. Tim carefully discusses suitability, risks, and realistic expectations during consultation.
Suitability for buccal fat removal in Sydney is confirmed during consultation.
Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Safety, training and professional standards
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.
