Bichectomy, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure whereby a plastic surgeon removes or reduces excess fat pads in the cheeks.
This minimally invasive procedure:
A local anesthetic will be used to numb the skin on each side of the face. A small incision inside each side of the mouth is made to expose the cheek fat pads. The surgeon will cut and remove the fat tissue before closing the incisions.
The procedure usually takes an hour or less. Most patients return to normal activities with a few days provided post-procedure supportive care measures are followed. To prevent infection and help with healing, a special mouth rinse may be prescribed. A liquid diet is also usually required for one to two days after surgery. Bruising and swelling around the incisions sites are common but normally improve after one to two weeks. Final results become apparent as swelling resolves, typically within a few weeks to a few months.
