Cheeks are one of the most influential facial areas when it comes to overall attractiveness and facial balance. A slimmer face with more defined contours is often associated with a refined and aesthetically pleasing look. However, in some individuals, the cheek area may appear full even without excess body weight, which can make the face look rounder or heavier than desired.
In such cases, bichectomy, also called buccal fat removal, may be considered. This procedure reduces the volume of the buccal fat pad inside the cheek, helping create a more contoured facial appearance and supporting more prominent cheekbones. Because it became widely known through celebrities, it is sometimes referred to as the "Hollywood cheek" procedure.
A key advantage of buccal fat removal is that it is performed from inside the mouth, meaning the outer facial skin is not cut and visible scarring is generally not expected. The operation is usually completed in a short time and the recovery period is typically manageable for many patients.
For people travelling to Turkey for aesthetic procedures, Tekirdağ is close to Istanbul, which can be a practical option for international visitors looking for facial contouring treatments near Istanbul.
Is Cheek Aesthetics (Buccal Fat Removal) Risky?
Buccal fat removal is generally a relatively short procedure and many patients are satisfied with the improvement in facial contour. However, as with any surgical intervention, there are potential risks and complications.
Possible risks may include:
Choosing an experienced surgeon and ensuring proper surgical planning are important factors in minimizing risk. Before surgery, your doctor will explain the procedure in detail and discuss potential complications based on your individual anatomy and medical history.
Is There an Age Limit? Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
In general, buccal fat removal is not recommended at an early age. A practical minimum age range often considered is around 20-25 years, since facial fat distribution can continue to change during early adulthood. After this period, the surgery may be planned when appropriate.
This procedure may be suitable for individuals who:
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have a naturally round or square face due to cheek fat,
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appear facially "overweight" despite having normal body weight,
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want a more contoured mid-face appearance,
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aim for more defined cheekbones and facial angles.
Buccal fat removal is also increasingly requested by men who want stronger facial definition. As long as there is no medical condition preventing surgery, eligible patients can request an appointment for evaluation.
As with most elective procedures, surgery is generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Cheek Aesthetics Cost in Turkey
Patients often want to know the cost of cheek aesthetics in Turkey. A fixed price is not appropriate without evaluation, as the cost can vary depending on factors such as:
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the surgeon's technique and experience,
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the amount of buccal fat removed,
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whether local or general anesthesia is used,
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whether additional facial aesthetic procedures are planned,
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medications and clinical protocol.
A consultation and examination are the best way to determine the most suitable plan and provide a personalized cost estimate.
Are the Results Permanent?
A common question is whether the results of buccal fat removal are permanent. In many cases, the reduction of buccal fat is considered long-lasting, because the removed fat tissue does not naturally grow back in the same way.
However, facial appearance may still change over time due to:
If significant weight gain occurs, fat accumulation in the face may increase and the contoured result may become less noticeable. In selected cases, revision planning may be considered in the future. Maintaining a stable weight can support more consistent long-term results.
Will There Be Any Scars After Cheek Aesthetics?
One of the most important advantages of buccal fat removal is that it is performed through an incision inside the cheek, rather than through the facial skin. For this reason, visible scars on the face, jawline, or near the ear are not typically expected.
Because the incision is inside the mouth, external stitch marks are generally not a concern. This makes bichectomy one of the facial contouring procedures often described as "scarless" from the outside.
Cheek aesthetics surgery, commonly referred to as bichectomy or buccal fat removal, is performed to reduce excess cheek fat and create a more contoured, defined facial appearance. Below is a general overview of what patients can expect during the surgical process:
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Buccal fat removal can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the surgical plan and patient needs.
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Because anesthesia is used, patients typically do not feel pain during the procedure.
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A small incision of approximately 1 cm is made inside the cheek (intraoral approach).
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Through this incision, a portion of the buccal fat pad is carefully removed-often around 40% to 50%, depending on facial anatomy and desired contouring.
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The incision is then closed with sutures, and the procedure is completed.
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In many cases, patients can be discharged on the same day; however, some individuals may be advised to rest in the clinic for one day.
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The duration of surgery varies between patients but is commonly around 45 minutes.
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If additional aesthetic procedures are planned at the same time, the total operation time may be longer.
Patients often want to know what recovery looks like after bichectomy (buccal fat removal) and what precautions should be taken. Below is an overview of commonly recommended aftercare points:
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After surgery, it is important to remember that there will be stitches inside the cheek, as the incision is intraoral.
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For this reason, patients are usually advised not to consume solid foods on the first day and to prefer softer foods as recommended by the surgeon.
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Oral hygiene is an essential part of recovery, helping reduce the risk of infection and supporting proper healing.
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To support hygiene, patients may be instructed to use an antiseptic mouthwash for the first 3 days.
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In many cases, absorbable sutures are used, meaning stitch removal is not required.
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These sutures typically dissolve within 3-5 days.
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Most patients do not strongly feel the sutures, and they generally do not cause significant discomfort.
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To see the final contour more clearly, it is usually necessary to wait around 3 weeks, as swelling gradually resolves.
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Mild bruising and swelling can occur after surgery.
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Bruising and swelling usually start decreasing within a few days and continue improving over time.
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After resting at home for a few days, many patients can return to daily routines or work life, depending on individual recovery.
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Your doctor may recommend a short course of antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
If you would like more information about cheek aesthetics, bichectomy, or facial contouring options, you may contact the clinic to request a consultation appointment. A clinical evaluation can help determine the most suitable approach based on facial anatomy, harmony, and individual expectations.
