Buccal Fat Reduction
Folsom, CA
Folsom, CA
Refining the balance of your face often comes down to subtle changes that make a powerful difference. Buccal fat reduction is a specialized procedure that removes excess fat from the cheeks to create slimmer, more sculpted contours. Patients choose this treatment to highlight natural bone structure, enhance definition, and achieve a more refined, elegant look.
At Bueno MD Facial Aesthetic Surgery in Folsom, CA, every buccal fat reduction is performed by Dr. Bueno himself — a fellowship-trained facial surgeon who dedicates his practice exclusively to the face. His advanced training ensures not only precision in surgery, but also natural, long-lasting results that enhance harmony across the entire face.
Creates slimmer, more contoured cheeks by removing excess buccal fat
1–2 weeks of swelling and mild tenderness
30–60 minutes
Dr. Bueno will discuss anesthesia with you, including twilight sedation, and determine the best option for your pain tolerance and recovery
Slimmer, sculpted midface contours that last permanently
Buccal fat reduction is a cosmetic surgery designed to slim and refine the lower face by reducing excess fat in the cheeks. This outpatient procedure addresses the roundness sometimes known as “chipmunk cheeks” or a “baby face,” creating sharper definition and a more sculpted facial contour.
At Bueno MD Facial Aesthetic Surgery in Folsom, patients choose buccal fat reduction for a balanced, elegant look that enhances natural bone structure while maintaining facial harmony.
On the day of surgery, Dr. Bueno makes a small incision inside the mouth, hidden within the cheek. Through this incision, he carefully removes a portion of the buccal fat pad to achieve a slimmer contour. The incision is then closed with dissolvable sutures.
Because the incision is internal, there are no visible scars. The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and patients are able to return home the same day.
Buccal fat reduction is ideal for patients who feel their cheeks appear overly round, full, or out of balance with the rest of their features. It can:
Patients undergoing buccal fat reduction surgery can expect several benefits:
Ideal candidates are adults in good health who:
This procedure may not be appropriate for patients with already narrow or gaunt faces, as removing fat could create an aged appearance over time.
Mild swelling, tenderness, and temporary numbness inside the cheeks are common after surgery. Most patients return to work within a few days, though visible swelling can last 1–2 weeks. Soft foods are recommended initially, and patients should avoid strenuous activity until cleared by Dr. Bueno.
Follow-up visits ensure healing is smooth and results are developing as expected.
Some improvement is visible as swelling subsides within the first few weeks. Final results typically appear within 3–6 months, once tissues fully settle.
Results are permanent. Once buccal fat pads are removed, they do not return. However, natural aging and weight fluctuations can still influence facial contours over time.
Patients enjoy slimmer, sculpted cheeks that highlight their cheekbones and jawlines, creating balance, definition, and harmony in facial proportions.
Dr. Scott Bueno is uniquely qualified in facial surgery, with advanced training in both maxillofacial and facial plastic surgery. Having studied with leaders in the field, Dr. Bueno combines technical precision with an artistic eye for balance and proportion.
At his boutique practice in Folsom, CA, patients receive individualized care in a private, patient-focused setting — ensuring safety, comfort, and natural-looking outcomes.
Yes, when performed by a qualified facial surgeon. Risks include swelling, asymmetry, or infection, but these are rare with proper technique and aftercare.
No. Incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible external scars.
Yes. Once removed, buccal fat pads do not grow back.
Most patients resume light activities in 2–3 days and return to work within a week.
Absolutely. It’s often performed alongside chin surgery, jawline contouring, or a facelift for a more comprehensive enhancement.
