Buccal Fat Removal in Seattle Clinical Cost & Safety Audit

The minimally invasive surgical procedure known as buccal fat removal is designed to reduce the volume of adipose tissue in the mid-face region, resulting in a more defined facial profile.

Also referred to as bichectomy, this operation involves the selective excision of the buccal gland, also known as the masseteric gland, beneath the masseter muscle, in conjunction with the partial excision of the buccinator muscle and subcutaneous adipose tissue.

This is accomplished through a small incision made inside the cheek, thereby eliminating the need for external scarring. Consequently, post-operative recovery is generally characterized by minimal discomfort and minimal downtime, with most patients returning to their normal activities within a few days.

Indications and Contraindications

Buccal fat removal is typically recommended for individuals with a rounder facial appearance due to excess buccal glandular tissue. The procedure is often desired by patients who wish to achieve a more angular facial profile, thereby giving the appearance of a more defined jawline and a slimmer face.

Anatomy

The cheek area, which includes the buccal region, is composed of various layers of tissue, including the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS), which is the tissue layer that underlies the facial skin and contains both vascular and adipose tissue, as well as the buccinator muscle. This muscle is a composite muscle that is comprised of both smooth and striated muscle fibers, which contributes to the buccal fat. In addition, the cheek area contains an extensive network of blood vessels, nerve fibers, and lymphatic vessels.

The buccal gland, which is also known as the masseteric gland, is innervated by the buccinator nerve, a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve. The buccal gland functions primarily as a minor salivary gland, producing mucous secretion that lubricates the oral cavity. However, an excessive volume of buccal glandular tissue can result in a rounder facial appearance and hinder dental alignment.

During the procedure, the surgeon will typically use a combination of dissection and electrocautery to excise the buccal gland and adipose tissue, taking great care to preserve the integrity of the buccinator muscle and the surrounding vascular and nervous structures.

Complications associated with buccal fat removal are infrequent but may include bleeding, infection, facial asymmetry, and sensory disturbances or numbness in the buccal region. These complications often can be avoided with routine post-operative follow-up and adherence to pre-and post-operative instructions provided by the treating surgeon.

Conclusion

Buccal fat removal is a safe and effective surgical procedure aimed at refining the facial profile by minimizing the volume of excess buccal glandular tissue and subcutaneous adipose tissue in the buccal region. Given the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, as well as its relatively short recovery period, buccal fat removal has become a popular treatment option for individuals seeking enhanced facial contours and a more angular appearance, particularly in the Seattle metropolitan area.