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Facial appearance plays a pivotal role in our self-image. Procedures like buccal fat removal, cheekbone reduction, and V-line jaw reduction are popular for those seeking subtle or transformative changes.
These cosmetic surgeries involve minimally invasive to extensive procedures, and each has the potential to help you achieve more sculpted and delicate lower facial contours, much like Anya Taylor-Joy.
Buccal fat removal is a less invasive surgery that can provide more definition for individuals with round faces. Cheekbone reduction is a little more invasive as it recontours the cheekbone, but neither of these surgeries addresses the jawline. Jaw reduction, or a V-line procedure, is the most invasive of the three and focuses on thinning the sides of the jaw for a V-shaped contour.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore each procedure, highlighting its unique aspects, differences, and potential results to help individuals make informed decisions on their facial sculpting journey.
Buccal Fat Removal
For those desiring a delicate, refined face, buccal fat removal, also known as cheek reduction surgery, focuses on refining the facial contours by reducing the size of the buccal fat pads located in the cheeks.
Ideal Candidates for Buccal Fat Removal
If you are a healthy non-smoker with prominent or full cheeks seeking a more sculpted and V-shaped facial appearance, buccal fat removal might be right for you.
3 Basic Surgical Steps for Buccal Fat Removal
- Incision placement: Small incisions are made inside the mouth, minimizing external scarring.
- Fat extraction: The surgeon gently removes or trims the buccal fat pads to create a slimmer facial contour.
- Incision closure: Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
Recovery Process for Buccal Fat Removal
Swelling and mild discomfort are expected in the initial days, with most swelling subsiding within a few weeks. Patients can typically resume normal activities within a week, with complete recovery taking a few weeks to months.
Benefits of Buccal Fat Removal
- Facial contouring: Buccal fat removal enhances facial definition, creating a more sculpted and refined appearance.
- Youthful V-shaped face: This procedure is very popular for those seeking a more youthful and appealing V-shaped facial contour.
- Easiest recovery: Of the three surgeries that can recontour the lower portion of your face, buccal fat reduction is the least invasive and requires the shortest recovery period.
Cheekbone Reduction
Cheekbone reduction, or zygoma reduction, is designed to reduce the prominence of the cheekbones for a softer and less angular facial appearance.
Ideal Candidates for Cheekbone Reduction
If you have naturally prominent or asymmetrical cheekbones and prefer a more balanced facial profile, cheekbone reduction can deliver. Surgical patients should be in good health, and if they are using any products containing nicotine, they will be advised to abstain a few weeks before and after their procedure.
3 Basic Surgical Steps for Cheekbone Reduction
- Incision placement: Incisions may be made inside the mouth or along the hairline, depending on the chosen technique.
- Bone reshaping: The surgeon uses various techniques, such as shaving or cutting the cheekbones, to achieve the desired reduction.
- Incision closure: Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures or secured with other techniques.
Recovery Process for Cheekbone Reduction
Swelling for the first few weeks is typical and will subside gradually. You can expect complete recovery within two to three months. You will be instructed to avoid applying pressure to the surgical area during the initial healing phase.
Benefits of Cheekbone Reduction
- Facial balance: Cheekbone reduction enhances facial harmony by creating a balanced and proportionate appearance.
- Softer facial contour: The procedure provides a softer, less angular facial contour.
- Intermediate recovery experienced: Cheekbone reduction surgery can provide excellent results but involves a more substantial recovery than buccal fat removal.
V-Line Jaw Reduction
V-line jaw reduction focuses on creating a more slender and V-shaped lower face by reducing the width of the jawbone.
Ideal Candidates for V-Line Jaw Reduction
If you have a prominent (square or wide) jaw and desire a more tapered or delicate lower facial contour, you may need a more comprehensive surgery than cheekbone reduction.
3 Basic Surgical Steps for V-Line Jaw Reduction
- Incision placement: Incisions are typically made inside the mouth to access the jawbone.
- Bone reshaping: The surgeon trims or shaves the jawbone to achieve the desired reduction in width.
- Incision closure: Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
Recovery Process for V-Line Jaw Reduction
The recovery process for V-line jaw reduction is similar to cheekbone reduction. However, the intensity depends on the extent of the procedure. Swelling is common, and it may take several weeks to a few months to see your final results. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a few weeks, with complete recovery over several months.
Benefits of V-Line Jaw Reduction
- Facial slimming: V-line jaw reduction creates a more tapered and aesthetically pleasing lower face.
- Streamlined facial features: The procedure contributes to overall facial balance and proportions, especially from a frontal view.
Major Differences Between These 3 Procedures
Buccal Fat Removal
Buccal fat removal focuses on reducing the size of buccal fat pads in the cheeks for a more sculpted facial contour and typically involves incisions made inside the mouth. Recovery generally involves a quicker recovery, with most patients resuming normal activities within a week.
Cheekbone Reduction
Cheekbone reduction aims to reduce the prominence of the cheekbones for a softer facial contour, and incisions may be made inside the mouth or along the hairline. Recovery may take longer than with buccal fat removal, and you can expect several weeks of swelling.
V-Line Jaw Reduction
V-line jaw reduction reduces the width of the jawbone for a more tapered lower face and involves incisions being made inside the mouth to access the jawbone. Recovery from V-line jaw reduction can be compared to cheekbone reduction, but when comprehensive reduction is needed, it can sometimes be longer and more intense, with gradual improvement over several months.
Choosing a Qualified Board-Certified Surgeon
A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to discuss goals, expectations, and the most suitable approach to achieve your desired results.
Popularity of Facial Sculpting Among Asian Individuals
Cheek reduction and V-line jaw reduction are more popular among those of Korean and other Asian backgrounds. In these cases, seeking a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic procedures for the Asian community is advised.
Sculpting the Cheeks and Jaw-Line in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Charles Lee is a highly-respected plastic surgeon who provides cosmetic facial sculpting in Beverly Hills, California. He also has extensive experience performing procedures for patients of Asian heritage. If you want to learn more about undergoing a buccal fat, cheek, or jaw reduction procedure in Beverly Hills, call Dr. Lee today at 310-231-6811.
