Cheek Slimming Methods

There can be more than one reason why the cheeks look full: a prominent buccal fat pad (Bichat's fat pad) inside the cheek, general weight gain, fat accumulation under the chin and in the lower part of the face, a prominent chewing muscle, or bone structure. Which method is suitable for cheek slimming is determined by the cause of the fullness. For this reason, an assessment by the doctor at an examination is needed first. Results vary from person to person.

Weight Loss and Lifestyle

If cheek fullness is due to general weight gain, losing weight in a healthy way can also make the face slimmer. However, fat in a specific area cannot be reduced with facial exercises, face yoga or creams. Reducing salt intake and regular sleep can help reduce temporary puffiness in the face; however, they do not change the fatty tissue.

Bichectomy (Buccal Fat Removal)

Part of the buccal fat pad inside the cheek is removed through a small incision made inside the mouth. It is usually performed under local anaesthesia and leaves no visible scar on the face. The result is permanent; the removed fat does not come back. For this reason it is not suitable for people whose cheeks are already thin, as it may lead to a hollow appearance of the face in the future. Its risks include swelling, bruising, bleeding and infection. For details you can read our article Buccal Fat Removal (Bichectomy) and our bichectomy page.

Face and Double Chin Liposuction

If cheek fullness is accompanied by fat accumulation under the chin and in the lower part of the face, fat can be removed from these areas with thin cannulas. Liposuction is a different procedure from bichectomy; when needed, the two can be planned together. Liposuction does not correct sagging skin. For details you can read our article Double Chin Liposuction and our liposuction page.

Filler Treatments

Filler does not slim the cheek; it adds volume. Filler applied to the cheekbone area can help the facial contours look sharper by accentuating the upper part of the face. Fillers containing hyaluronic acid are mostly used and their effects are temporary. Short-term swelling and bruising may occur after the treatment. A rare but serious risk is the filler material blocking a blood vessel; for this reason the treatment should be performed by a doctor. For detailed information you can read our cheek filler page.

Device Treatments

Device treatments such as focused ultrasound (HIFU) and radiofrequency heat the tissue beneath the skin, stimulate collagen production and aim to tighten the skin in cases of mild laxity. Their effect on reducing fatty tissue in the cheek is limited, and they are not a substitute for bichectomy in marked fullness. Several sessions are usually needed. For detailed information you can read our HIFU page.

If the width of the lower part of the face is caused by a prominent chewing muscle, a different approach may be needed; in this case the doctor may consider options such as botulinum toxin, which temporarily relaxes the muscle.

Which Method Is Suitable for Whom?

• If the fullness is caused by the buccal fat pad, bichectomy may be considered.
• If there is fat accumulation under the chin and in the lower part of the face, liposuction may be considered.
• If there is a lack of volume in the cheekbone area, filler can help accentuate the facial contours.
• In mild skin laxity, device treatments can provide limited tightening.
• In general weight gain, losing weight first may be recommended.

Surgical methods require good general health, being at least 18 years old and having realistic expectations. For facelift and other methods aimed at rejuvenating the face you can read our article Facelift Methods.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın