Removing buccal fat

Plastic Surgeon
The consultation always takes place with the plastic surgeon who will be treating you. During this initial consultation, you can explain what bothers you most about your body and what you would like to change. Together with your plastic surgeon, you will discuss your wishes and the specific areas in front of the mirror. Based on this, the surgeon will propose the surgical technique best suited for you and discuss it with you. In front of the mirror, the surgeon will explain what this technique entails and what you can expect in terms of the final result.

The plastic surgeon will then show you before-and-after photos of procedures he or she has performed. This will give you an idea of the possible results. At the end, your consultation will be summarized in a treatment plan, and the total costs will be discussed with you immediately. This will allow you to make an informed decision.

Would you like more information about your first consultation at Boerhaave? Read more here.

Consultant
Following your initial consultation with your plastic surgeon, you’ll have a conversation (by phone) with your consultant. The purpose of this conversation is to inform you about matters that need to be arranged regarding your liposuction. This ensures you’re well prepared for your treatment.

BMI
When you undergo general anesthesia during surgery, it is important that the procedure proceeds safely. For this reason, you must be at a healthy weight. Would you like to know if you are at a healthy weight?

Calculate your BMI here. The BMI (Body Mass Index) indicates whether your weight is healthy in relation to your height.

Although buccal fat removal is generally safe, there are some potential risks and complications that may occur. Here are the most important ones:

Infection

• As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, especially since the incisions are made inside the mouth, where bacteria are present. This can usually be prevented through good oral hygiene.

Swelling and Bruising

• Swelling and bruising are normal after the procedure, but may last longer in some people. This is usually temporary and gradually subsides within a few weeks.

Bleeding

• Bleeding is rare with buccal fat removal, but it can occur. This is usually a minor complication that stops on its own, but in some cases, additional treatment may be necessary.

Numbness or nerve damage

• The surgeon works near important nerves in the face, and although it rarely happens, there is a small risk of nerve damage, which can lead to temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in the cheeks.

Damage to the salivary glands or ducts

• In rare cases, damage to the salivary glands or salivary ducts may occur during the procedure, which can cause discomfort or other complications.

Smoking
Patients who smoke or use tobacco or nicotine products at the time of surgery are at a higher risk of complications, such as skin necrosis and impaired wound healing. In addition, it can have a negative effect on anesthesia, potentially resulting in an increased risk of bleeding. It is important to stop smoking at least four weeks before the procedure and to continue abstaining throughout the entire recovery process.

It is important to note that people exposed to secondhand smoke may also face a potentially increased risk of similar complications. People who are not exposed to tobacco smoke or nicotine-containing products have a significantly lower risk of complications.