Facial Aesthetics and Buccal Fat Removal (Bichectomy)

Facial aesthetics have become an important topic concerning people's appearance. More defined and symmetrical facial features not only enhance one’s confidence but also help correct age-related facial changes through various aesthetic procedures. Bichectomy is an excellent solution for those who want to get rid of excess fat in the cheek area and achieve a slimmer, more refined facial contour.

What is Bichectomy?

Bichectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of specific fat deposits from the cheeks. When facial features are symmetrical and well-defined, they create a more aesthetically pleasing look. Due to genetic factors or the aging process, some individuals may accumulate excess fat in the cheek area. These deposits can cause the person to appear round-faced, overweight, or older than they are. By removing these fat pads, bichectomy helps define the jawline, making the facial structure appear slimmer, more elegant, and more balanced.

This is a minimally invasive procedure, usually performed under local anesthesia, with a rapid recovery time. The fat is removed through small incisions made inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars.

Who is a Good Candidate for Bichectomy?

Bichectomy is suitable for individuals who want to enhance their facial contours, especially those bothered by excess fat in the cheeks. Ideal candidates typically include:

1. Those with Round Facial Structure
   While a round face can reflect youth, it may be undesirable for some. Excessively full cheeks can obscure the jawline. Bichectomy slims these areas, making the jawline more prominent.

2. Those Wanting a Defined Jawline
   A defined jawline creates a more symmetrical facial appearance. By removing the excess fat from the cheeks, bichectomy reveals a clearer, more sculpted jawline with smoother transitions.

3. Individuals with Genetic Fat Accumulation
   Some people naturally have more fat in their cheeks due to genetic predisposition. This may not be reduced even with diet and exercise. Bichectomy provides a permanent solution.

4. Those Wanting to Correct Age-Related Facial Changes
   Aging leads to changes in facial structure — loss of skin elasticity and sagging. Bichectomy can help rejuvenate the face by removing sagging fat deposits.

5. People Interested in Facial Aesthetics
   Anyone looking to refine their facial features and achieve a more symmetrical, slender look may benefit from bichectomy.

How is Bichectomy Performed?

Bichectomy is a straightforward surgical procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. A small incision is made inside the mouth to access and remove the buccal fat pads. The procedure leaves no visible external scar.

1. Anesthesia Application

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, numbing only the area to be operated on. Sedation or general anesthesia may be used if necessary.

2. Fat Removal from Cheeks

Through a small incision inside the mouth, the surgeon carefully removes the fat tissue. The amount of fat removed depends on the individual's facial anatomy and aesthetic preferences.

3. Sutures and Healing

After the fat is removed, the incision is closed with stitches. Since the sutures are inside the mouth, there is no external scarring. Healing is typically quick, and patients can return to normal life within a few days.

Benefits of Bichectomy

Bichectomy offers several aesthetic advantages by removing excess fat from the cheeks, enhancing facial contours, and creating a more defined appearance.

1. Slimmer Facial Contours
   The removal of buccal fat results in a slimmer face, with a more prominent jawline and refined appearance.

2. Youthful and Fresh Look
   Age-related fat displacement can make one look older. Bichectomy restores youthfulness by enhancing facial definition.

3. Improved Facial Aesthetics
   It helps balance facial proportions and smoothens the transition between the cheeks and jaw.

4. Minimal Recovery Time
   Being minimally invasive, recovery is fast. Patients usually return to normal life within a few days, with no visible scars.

Recovery Process After Bichectomy

Recovery is generally quick but may involve mild side effects such as:

1. First Few Days
   Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort inside the mouth are normal and typically subside within a few days. Pain is manageable with medication.

2. First Week
   Swelling and bruising continue to diminish. Stitches are inside the mouth and do not leave external marks. Light activities can usually be resumed.

3. Final Results
   Full recovery takes 2–3 weeks, after which the final aesthetic outcomes become visible. The results of bichectomy are long-lasting.