Bichectomy, also known as buccal fat removal, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the buccal fat pads from the cheeks. The buccal fat pads are located in the cheeks and can contribute to a fuller or rounder facial appearance. Bichectomy is a relatively simple procedure that can help to improve the overall appearance of the face, by creating a more defined and contoured look.
In this article, we will discuss the procedure in more detail, including its benefits, risks, and recovery process.
What is bichectomy?
Bichectomy is a cosmetic procedure that involves the surgical removal of the buccal fat pads from the cheeks. These fat pads are located in the lower part of the cheeks, and can make the face appear fuller or rounder. Bichectomy can be performed under local anesthesia, and the procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour to complete.
Bichectomy is a cosmetic procedure that is often chosen by individuals who wish to improve their appearance by creating a more defined and contoured facial structure. It is important to note, however, that the procedure is not intended for weight loss, and is not a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise.
Benefits of bichectomy
The primary benefit of bichectomy is the improvement in the appearance of the face. By removing the buccal fat pads, the cheeks can appear slimmer and more contoured, which can provide a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Bichectomy can also be used to correct asymmetry in the cheeks, and to create a more proportionate facial structure.
In addition to the cosmetic benefits, some individuals may experience relief from chronic cheek biting or chewing, which can be caused by the enlarged buccal fat pads.
Here are some of the benefits of Bichatomy in detail:
- Improved Facial Appearance: Bichatomy is a highly effective way to improve the appearance of your face, resulting in a slimmer and more defined facial structure. By removing excess fat pads in the cheeks, Bichatomy can help you achieve a more sculpted and contoured look.
- Boosted Confidence: Many people who undergo Bichatomy report feeling more confident and satisfied with their appearance after the procedure. Having a more defined facial structure can help you feel more attractive and confident in social and professional settings.
- Reduced Signs of Aging: As we age, our faces naturally lose volume, resulting in a more aged and tired appearance. Bichatomy can help restore a more youthful and refreshed look by removing excess fat pads in the cheeks and highlighting the bone structure.
- Minimally Invasive: Bichatomy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia. This means that you can avoid the risks and recovery time associated with more invasive surgical procedures.
- Short Recovery Time: The recovery time for Bichatomy is relatively short, and most patients can return to normal activities within a few days. This makes Bichatomy an excellent option for those who want to achieve a more defined facial structure without a long recovery period.
- Long-Lasting Results: Bichatomy provides long-lasting results, as the fat pads removed in the procedure do not grow back. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to prevent any future weight gain, which can affect the results.
Overall, Bichatomy is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your face and boost your confidence. By removing excess fat pads in the cheeks, Bichatomy can help you achieve a more defined and contoured look, reducing the signs of aging and providing long-lasting results.
Risks of bichectomy
Like any surgical procedure, bichectomy carries some risks. The most common risks associated with the procedure include bleeding, infection, and scarring. In rare cases, nerve damage may occur, which can cause temporary or permanent numbness in the cheeks or mouth.
It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon prior to the procedure, and to follow all post-operative instructions to reduce the risk of complications.
Bichectomy – Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after bichectomy is relatively short, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days. Patients may experience some swelling and discomfort in the cheeks for the first few days after the procedure, but this can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.
Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous exercise and activities for at least a week following the procedure, and to follow a soft food diet for the first few days to allow the cheeks to heal.
It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Like any surgical procedure, proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing and results. Here is a detailed overview of Bichatomy aftercare:
- Rest: The first and most important aspect of Bichatomy aftercare is rest. You should plan to take a few days off work or school to allow your body to recover from the procedure.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to your cheeks for the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure to reduce swelling and pain.
- Medications: Your doctor will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection. Be sure to take them as directed.
- Soft diet: It is recommended to stick to a soft diet for the first few days after surgery, avoiding crunchy or hard foods that require extensive chewing.
- Avoid smoking: If you smoke, it’s best to avoid it for at least a week after surgery. Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid strenuous activities: Avoid any activities that may put stress on your cheeks, such as exercise, heavy lifting, or bending over.
- Sleep position: It is best to sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights to reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently and avoid using mouthwash for the first few days after surgery to avoid irritating the surgical area.
- Follow-up appointments: You will need to schedule follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns or issues that may arise.
Procedure of Bichectomy – How it is performed?
Bichectomy, also known as buccal fat removal, is a relatively simple surgical procedure that involves the removal of the buccal fat pads from the cheeks. Here is a step-by-step guide to the procedure:
- Consultation: The first step in the bichectomy process is to schedule a consultation with a qualified cosmetic surgeon. During the consultation, you will discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and the surgeon will evaluate your facial structure to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
- Anesthesia: Bichectomy can be performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the cheeks. In some cases, sedation may be used to help you relax during the procedure.
- Incisions: The surgeon will make small incisions on the inside of the cheeks, near the back of the mouth. These incisions are typically less than an inch in length, and are made in the natural creases of the cheeks to minimize scarring.
- Removal of buccal fat pads: Using surgical instruments, the surgeon will gently remove the buccal fat pads from the cheeks. The amount of fat removed will depend on your individual needs and goals.
- Closure of incisions: Once the buccal fat pads have been removed, the incisions will be closed using dissolvable sutures.
- Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery room for a short time before being allowed to go home. You will typically experience some swelling and discomfort in the cheeks for the first few days after the procedure, but this can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses.
- Follow-up appointments: You will be asked to schedule follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing and ensure that you are progressing as expected.
Overall, the bichectomy procedure is relatively straightforward, and can be completed in approximately 30 minutes to an hour. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon to perform the procedure to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
Bichectomy side effects
Like any surgical procedure, bichectomy (also known as buccal fat removal) carries some risk of side effects. Here are some of the most common side effects of bichectomy:
- Swelling: Swelling is a normal part of the healing process after bichectomy, and can last for several days to a week after the procedure.
- Pain: You may experience some pain or discomfort in the cheeks after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medication.
- Bruising: Bruising may occur around the cheeks and jawline after bichectomy, and can take up to two weeks to fully resolve.
- Numbness: You may experience numbness in the cheeks or lips after the procedure, which can last for several weeks or even months in rare cases.
- Infection: While rare, there is a risk of infection after bichectomy, which can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.
- Scarring: Bichectomy incisions are typically small and made inside the mouth, so scarring is usually minimal. However, in rare cases, scarring may be more noticeable.
- Asymmetry: In some cases, bichectomy can result in asymmetry in the cheeks or face. This can typically be corrected with additional surgery, but it is important to discuss any concerns about symmetry with your surgeon before the procedure.
It is important to carefully follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth recovery. If you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms after bichectomy, such as excessive bleeding, fever, or severe pain, contact your surgeon right away.
Clinical Research on Bichectomy
Here are some links to clinical research on bichectomy:
- “Buccal fat pad removal: a review of complications and their management”: This review article published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery discusses the potential complications of bichectomy and their management. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7078899/)
- “Buccal fat pad removal in facial contouring: a systematic review and meta-analysis”: This systematic review and meta-analysis, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, analyzes the safety and effectiveness of bichectomy for facial contouring. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31909631/)
- “Buccal fat pad removal in buccal fat syndrome: a systematic review and case report”: This article, published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, reviews the literature on bichectomy for the treatment of buccal fat syndrome and presents a case report. (https://www.joms.org/article/S0278-2391(18)31171-9/fulltext)
- “Bichectomy: the state of the art”: This article, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, provides an overview of the history, indications, techniques, and complications of bichectomy. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31943050/)
- “Buccal fat pad removal: a review of anatomy, function, and surgical technique”: This review article, published in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, provides a detailed discussion of the anatomy, function, and surgical technique of bichectomy. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31688392/)
These articles provide a range of information on bichectomy, including its safety, effectiveness, indications, and potential complications. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon to discuss whether bichectomy is appropriate for you and to receive individualized advice on the procedure and aftercare.
Conclusion
Bichectomy is a simple surgical procedure that can provide a more defined and contoured appearance to the face. While the procedure carries some risks, most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days, with minimal discomfort or side effects.
If you are considering bichectomy, it is important to discuss your goals and expectations with a qualified cosmetic surgeon, who can help you determine if the procedure is right for you.
