Buccal Fat Removal

Bichectomy is a cosmetic surgery that involves the removal of Bichat’s bags, which are accumulations of fat located on the cheeks. This procedure is ideal for people who want a more sculpted and defined facial contour, eliminating the rounded or “puffy” appearance of the cheeks.

Initial Consultation During the initial consultation, Dr. Pareja will evaluate the patient’s facial structure, medical history, and expectations. Possible outcomes and available surgical options will be discussed. Dr. Pareja may also use photographs and simulations to help the patient visualize the expected results and ensure that the procedure meets her aesthetic goals.

Surgical Procedure Bichectomy is a relatively simple and quick procedure, which is generally performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preferences and the complexity of the case. The procedure lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Incisions: Small incisions of approximately 1 to 2 centimeters are made inside the mouth, in the mucosa of the cheeks, which prevents visible scars on the skin.

Extraction of the Bichat Pockets: Through these incisions, the Bichat pockets are accessed and the appropriate amount of fat is extracted. It is important that this extraction is precise to avoid an excessively thin appearance and maintain the naturalness of the face.

Closure of the Incisions: The incisions are closed with resorbable sutures that do not require removal, since they dissolve on their own in a few days.

Recovery After surgery, patients may experience swelling, tenderness, and mild discomfort in the cheeks, which usually disappears within a few days. Dr. Pareja will provide detailed instructions for post-operative care, including:

Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid infections.
Follow a soft diet for the first few days to minimize cheek movement.
Avoid strenuous physical activities and chewing hard foods for at least a week.
Apply cold compresses to your cheeks as directed to reduce swelling.

Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, although residual swelling may take a few weeks to completely disappear.

Results The initial results of bichectomy are visible once the swelling subsides, usually within a few weeks. The final results are best seen after a few months, when the tissues have completely settled. Dr. Pareja ensures that the results are natural and balanced, providing a more defined and attractive facial contour.

Risks and Complications Although bichectomy is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Pareja, there are associated risks, such as infection, bleeding, asymmetry, facial nerve injury, and healing problems. Dr. Pareja will take all necessary precautions to minimize these risks and ensure a safe and satisfactory recovery.

Benefits of Bichectomy

Provides a slimmer and more defined face.
Highlights the cheekbones and jawline.
Improves facial harmony and balance.
Increases the patient’s confidence and self-esteem.

Dr. Patricia Pareja is dedicated to offering quality care and exceptional results in bichectomy. Her detailed and personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the appropriate treatment for their needs and expectations. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact her for professional and personalized attention.