I have been really self conscience about my chipmunk-like cheeks. Every time I smile, my face balloons to the point where it looks like I am carrying extra weight. I am a long distance runner and very much in shape (not overweight). Is there any procedures I can have to get rid of this extra fat on my cheeks (upper & lower cheeks) and around my jawline. Is buccal fat removal and facial liposuction effective? I am looking for a slimmer face. Does having thick skin effect the desired results??
Dr. Mesas Answered: Chipmunk cheeks are usually genetically determined, and are highly resistant to decrease in size with diet and exercise. Worst, they become bigger with weight gain.
Buccal fat removal is the plastic surgery procedure that permanently corrects the chubby cheeks. Buccal fat removal by removing the buccal fat pads, accumulation of fat that causes the chipmunk cheeks, makes the face thinner and more chiseled in patient candidates.
Also, accumulation of fat along the jaw line and under the chin makes the neck to look undefined, chubby and not very masculine in male patients.
Chin liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure that removes the fat of the double chin. When it is performed in an extended fashion along the jaw line, it helps to define the jaw line and give a more masculine look to male patients. I commonly perform both buccal fat removal and extended chin liposuction under local anesthesia in the office setting.
John Mesa, MD
New York City
Buccal Fat Removal and Chin Liposuction Specialist Plastic Surgeon