Buccal Fat Removal in Charlotte, NC

Name: Buccal Fat Removal
Brand: Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa
Rating: 4.8 (458 reviews)

Buccal fat removal refines the cheeks by reducing fullness in the lower face. This sculpting procedure creates slimmer contours and highlights natural bone structure, delivering a more balanced, defined, and confident appearance that feels authentically you.

woman looking over her shoulder with her hand on her cheek

Refined Facial Contouring With Buccal Fat Removal Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Charlotte, NC

At Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa, buccal fat removal in Charlotte is performed with precision and artistry to complement each patient’s natural anatomy. Our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Kara Criswell and Dr. Bryan Criswell, combine decades of expertise with a commitment to safety and individualized care. This procedure is especially popular among patients who feel their cheeks look overly round or youthful and wish for greater facial definition. By addressing stubborn cheek volume, buccal fat removal enhances harmony and balance across the entire face.

What Is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal fat removal is a surgical procedure that reduces the natural fat pads located in the lower cheeks. By carefully removing or reducing this tissue, surgeons create a slimmer, more contoured facial shape. This procedure can address:

Excess cheek fullness or “chipmunk cheeks”
Desire for a more sculpted midface
Improved definition of cheekbones and jawline
Balance for patients with naturally rounder facial features

Schedule A Consultation

Why Choose Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa

Patients trust Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa because of our reputation for artistry, safety, and ethical guidance. Dr. Kara Criswell, one of the few female plastic surgeons in Charlotte, brings a unique perspective to facial aesthetics and patient care.

Dr. Bryan Criswell’s extensive reconstructive and cosmetic experience ensures a technical precision that enhances natural beauty. Supported by a team of skilled RN injectors and estheticians, our practice provides comprehensive care—from surgical refinement to long-term skin health and maintenance.

Patients appreciate that we never chase trends for the sake of appearance. Instead, every recommendation is grounded in what looks natural, feels authentic, and aligns with your goals.

Everyone is always so helpful and ready to answer any and all questions you may have. Dr. Brian Criswell has been amazing, he’s very supportive and ready to listen and address any concerns I may have had. Great place to go and I recommend them to everyone!!

B.D.

What the Buccal Fat Removal Procedure Can Do for You

Buccal fat removal offers transformative yet subtle improvements, giving patients a more defined look without appearing overdone. The changes are natural, creating long-lasting results that align with individual features. Benefits include:

Slimmer, more sculpted cheeks
Enhanced cheekbone definition
Better balance between facial features
A long-lasting, natural improvement
Boosted self-confidence and comfort in appearance

Am I a Candidate?

Good candidates for buccal fat removal in Charlotte are healthy adults with fuller cheeks who desire greater definition. Patients should be nonsmokers or willing to stop before surgery and have stable overall health.

During your consultation at Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa, our surgeons will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and determine if this procedure aligns with your desired outcome. This step ensures the treatment is tailored specifically to your needs.

What Happens During the Procedure

Your consultation sets the stage by identifying your goals and tailoring the approach to your features. On the day of surgery, the process follows these steps:

Local or general anesthesia is administered for comfort.
A small incision is made inside the mouth to avoid external scarring.
The buccal fat pad is gently reduced or removed.
Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
Recovery begins immediately after surgery.

Recovery and Expected Results

Most patients experience mild swelling and tenderness in the first week. Because incisions are inside the mouth, no visible scars remain. Normal activities typically resume within a few days, while full results emerge as swelling subsides over several weeks. The outcome is slimmer, better-defined cheeks that enhance overall facial harmony. Results are permanent, provided patients maintain a stable weight and healthy habits.

Types of Buccal Fat Removal

There are subtle variations in technique depending on patient anatomy:

Traditional Buccal Fat Removal: Standard removal of cheek fat pads.
Partial Reduction: Conserves some volume for a softer look.
Combined Approach: Performed alongside other facial procedures like chin augmentation or facelifts for enhanced balance.

Related Options in Facial Contouring

Chin Augmentation: Strengthens the profile with implants or fillers.
Neck Liposuction: Removes fat under the chin for sharper angles.
Facelift: Tightens skin and redefines contours for overall rejuvenation.
Cheek Augmentation: Adds volume with implants or fillers for enhanced structure.

Frequently Asked Questions Buccal Fat Removal

Will my face look too hollow as I age?

Your surgeon evaluates age and anatomy carefully to avoid an overly hollow appearance later in life.

How long does the surgery take?

The procedure typically takes about 45 minutes to one hour and is often performed on an outpatient basis.

Is there visible scarring?

No. Incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no external scars.

When will I see results?

Initial improvements are visible as swelling subsides within a few weeks, with final results appearing in two to three months.

How long do results last?

Results are permanent, as buccal fat pads do not regenerate. Maintaining a stable weight ensures the best long-term outcome.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to explore buccal fat removal, contact Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa today. Schedule a private consultation to discuss your goals and discover how this procedure can create balance, definition, and confidence in your appearance.