What Is Buccal Fat Removal and Why Is It All the Rage in Hollywood?

Looking for a cosmetic surgery clinic that offers transformative solutions? You’ve come to the right place. At NuBody Concepts, we are passionate about helping individuals look and feel their best. Our team specializes in cosmetic enhancements that can impact your life. While we understand that trends in today’s world change rapidly, it’s important to consider the risks and benefits of certain cosmetic procedures before deciding to proceed. Let’s look at a procedure that has been gaining popularity recently: buccal fat removal. While this procedure can be helpful for some women, the rise of social media accounts promoting the procedure presents a worrisome trend (primarily in young women). As always, our team at NuBody Concepts is here to provide guidance and support throughout your cosmetic journey.

Understanding Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that aims to enhance the facial appearance by removing excess fat pads from the cheeks. The pockets of fat, commonly known as “chipmunk cheeks,” can give the face a round or chubby look that may not align with one’s desired aesthetic. This cosmetic surgery is prevalent among younger women and men who want a more defined jawline and cheekbones, similar to the sculpted features often seen in buccal fat removal in celebrities.

In our digital and social media era, where beauty trends are constantly spotlighted and visual filters dominate algorithms, buccal fat removal has become a hot topic. Celebrities openly share buccal fat removal before and after experiences, showcasing the remarkable transformations that inspire their followers to explore similar enhancements. From subtle refinements to striking jawline transformations, the results speak for themselves, fueling the desire for this procedure among individuals seeking to enhance their facial contours.

Is Buccal Fat Removal Right for You?

So, why are so many celebrities getting buccal fat removal? Buccal fat removal is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure among men and women who desire a slim and sculpted facial appearance. However, it’s important to note that this procedure is not suitable for everyone.

Although buccal fat removal has been growing more popular, young patients have better options. The fat removed from the cheeks is permanent, and our faces naturally lose some of that fat as we age. If you remove too much fat at a young age, your face may look thin or narrow later. This procedure also requires removing a sufficient amount of cheek fat. If you don’t have enough fat in your cheeks, you won’t see the significant results you’re hoping for. 

No matter what procedure you do, it’s important to consult a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate. During a buccal fat removal consultation, the surgeon should evaluate your facial structure and discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. They should also explain the procedure in detail, including any potential risks and complications that may arise. Two board-certified plastic surgeons lead our offices: John D. Rosdeutscher, MD (Nashville) and Mark H. Peters, MD (Memphis). Their extensive careers have given them the insight to differentiate between cosmetic trends worth following and those not.

Risks and Considerations

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgery that aims to reduce the size of the cheek area, providing a more defined and contoured appearance to the face. Most people wonder, “Is buccal fat removal permanent?” The answer is yes. Before deciding to undergo this procedure, it is helpful to consider the following:

  • Keep in mind that buccal fat removal carries inherent risks, such as infection, nerve damage, asymmetry, and scarring.
  • Discuss risks with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon before deciding on the procedure.
  • Understand that the surgery results may not stand the test of time and can be impacted by aging and weight fluctuations.
  • Recovery after the surgery can be uncomfortable, with swelling, bruising, and discomfort for several days.
  • Follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to minimize complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

It is crucial to consider the pros and cons of buccal fat removal carefully. Patients must consult a qualified surgeon to discuss their objectives and determine whether this procedure is appropriate. Ensuring that you are working with a board-certified plastic surgeon for this procedure is essential. Many may claim to be cosmetic surgeons or certified by a lesser-known board, but when it comes to buccal fat removal, it is critical to choose a knowledgeable, skilled, and ethical plastic surgeon. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only board of plastic surgery recognized by The American Board of Medical Specialties. Dr. Peters and Dr. Rosdeutscher are both certified through the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Alternative Procedures for Buccal Fat Removal 

At NuBody Concepts, we understand that everyone has unique cosmetic goals and concerns. If you want to adjust the look of your face, there are solutions other than buccal fat removal. We offer a variety of procedures tailored to address specific areas of concern, including:

  • Liposuction: A surgical technique that eliminates stubborn fat from various body parts, including the face. 
  • Facial skin tightening: A non-surgical procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, resulting in tighter and smoother skin.
  • Injectables: Non-surgical treatments that smooth out wrinkles and lines, especially around the eyes and the forehead. 
  • Fillers: Substances like hyaluronic acid or collagen are used for specific face areas to enhance or restore volume and symmetry. 

Our extensive treatment options at our Nashville MedSpa and Memphis MedSpa allow patients to choose the best option for enhancing their natural beauty. At NuBody Concepts, we provide personalized cosmetic treatment options tailored to your needs to help you achieve your desired results.

The increasing popularity of these procedures shows that many people wish to have a sculpted facial appearance similar to those with buccal fat removal in Hollywood. However, it’s important to approach cosmetic enhancements with thoughtful consideration and informed decision-making. At NuBody Concepts, we offer expert guidance, innovative techniques, and personalized care to support our patients throughout their cosmetic journeys, ensuring they feel confident and at ease. Whether you’re interested in buccal fat removal or other cosmetic procedures, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our skilled team and explore the amazing possibilities that await you. 

Take the first step toward a more confident and radiant you by scheduling your consultation today, and check out our gallery of before and after photos to see the transformational results we’ve helped our patients achieve.


Each patient is unique. What your treatment will look like is determined by you and the plastic surgeon who you will meet with in a personal consultation.