Can Buccal Fat Grow Back?
Buccal fat pad removal is one of the plastic surgery procedures currently surging in popularity. It involves removing some or all of the buccal fat pads in the cheeks to create a slimmer facial appearance. Since this excess fat is often genetic and not ideal to treat with liposuction, the buccal fat removal method has become the gold standard for surgical cheek slimming. Many patients ask, “Can buccal fat grow back?”
The short answer is no. When fat cells are removed from the body, they cannot come back. With that said, existing fat cells can expand. If there is some fat left in the area, then theoretically with weight gain, they could expand. However, it is unlikely for it to be as dramatic as before surgery, if it occurs at all.
However, the fat pads cannot “grow” back. This is often why it is important to have buccal fat performed at the right time in lift and by an experienced surgeon. Removing too much of the fat pad, or in the wrong patient, can result in a gaunt look later in life due to the fat loss that comes with natural aging. For patients who naturally carry fat in the area and are good candidates, this is not too much of a concern.
To learn more and schedule a consultation with Dr. Sessa, call us at 941-923-1736. You can also reach out online via Price Simulator, chat, or contact form.
