Bichectomy

What is bichectomy surgery?
Cheek fat removal (bichectomy) surgery is a procedure in which the fat tissue called the buccal fat pad, located just below the cheekbone in the cheek area, is removed to give the cheeks a slimmer appearance.

What is the purpose of bichectomy surgery?
The aim of bichectomy surgery is to achieve a more triangular and youthful-looking face. This surgery does not correct excess cheek skin, sagging, cheek lines or fine wrinkles on the skin. If necessary, additional procedures may be performed for these problems.

Is bichectomy surgery a difficult operation, and how long does it take?
Bichectomy is not a difficult operation. It is performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 30 minutes.

How is bichectomy surgery performed?
During this surgery, a 1 cm incision is made inside the mouth, and the buccal fat tissue located in the hollow just below the cheekbone is removed. After the removal procedure is completed on both sides, the incision is usually closed with a few stitches. The stitches are not placed too tightly so that blood does not accumulate inside the area and can drain out for a few days. The patient is advised to consume liquid foods for a few days and pay attention to oral hygiene.

What are the possible risks and complications of bichectomy surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, bruising-swelling and asymmetry after bichectomy surgery. These risks will be minimized as much as possible with the appropriate approach of your surgeon and by the patient strictly following the recommendations.

Are there any side effects of bichectomy surgery?
Bichectomy surgery does not have any specific side effects, and the surgical risk is not higher than that of other aesthetic surgeries.

Will there be scars after bichectomy surgery?
Since bichectomy surgery is performed through the inside of the mouth, there is no visible surgical scar on the outside. The scar inside the mouth does not cause a problem because it is not in a visible area.

How long do the effects of bichectomy surgery last?
In most cases, the effects of bichectomy surgery last for many years.

What should be done before bichectomy surgery?
Before bichectomy surgery, our doctor evaluates the patient and a plan is made regarding the procedure to be performed. The surgery date is decided. As with all other surgeries, smoking should be stopped 2 weeks before surgery. Blood-thinning medications, herbal teas, vitamins and weight-loss medications should not be used starting 1 week before surgery. Only medications that the patient needs to use because of existing diseases should be taken with the doctor’s knowledge. If the surgery will be performed under local anesthesia, there is no need to fast.

Why is it important to stop smoking before bichectomy surgery?
Since smoking significantly affects wound healing, it is strongly recommended that you do not smoke for 15 days before and 15 days after surgery. The patient should be aware that smoking is one of the main causes of poor healing.

How should we sleep after bichectomy surgery?
In order to prevent swelling in the facial area from increasing and to allow it to decrease over time, you should sleep with your head elevated using 2-3 pillows.

Is dressing required after bichectomy surgery?
Since bichectomy surgery is performed through the inside of the mouth, no dressing is required. There may be minimal leakage from the edge of the stitches inside the mouth for a few hours.

When can I return to work after bichectomy surgery?
After bichectomy surgery, your tissues will have healed sufficiently within 3 days, and returning to work may be considered. Although swelling of the face and discomfort during mouth movements may rarely occur, these usually do not significantly prevent you from returning to work.

When can I start exercising after bichectomy surgery?
For the first 2 days after bichectomy surgery, you are generally advised to rest, walk around the house and perform simple daily activities. After 2 days, you may take short and careful walks outside. However, lifting weights and strenuous exercise are not recommended during the first weeks. Generally, all types of sports activities are allowed after 1 month.

Will I need to wear a facial compression garment after bichectomy surgery?
A compression garment is generally not required after bichectomy surgery.

Will the stitches be removed after bichectomy surgery?
A few absorbable stitches may be placed inside the mouth during bichectomy surgery. These stitches fall out on their own after a few days, and there is no need for stitch removal.

Is bichectomy surgery very painful?
Most patients state that they do not experience any pain after bichectomy surgery. However, mild tightness and pain may still be expected in the surgical area. Regular use of the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers is generally sufficient.

When can I take a shower after bichectomy surgery?
Since the surgery is performed through the inside of the mouth, there is no restriction on taking a shower.

When can I swim in the pool or sea after bichectomy surgery?
It is recommended to wait 3 weeks before swimming in the pool or sea.

When can I travel after bichectomy surgery?
After bichectomy surgery, short-distance road travel can be made after 3 days. For a 1-2 hour flight, it is appropriate to wait until 7 days have passed.

How long should sexual intercourse be avoided after bichectomy surgery?
During sexual intercourse, blood pressure increases, which may cause unwanted bleeding in the face after surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to wait 3 weeks before sexual intercourse.

When can I start sunbathing or use a solarium after bichectomy surgery?
Since bichectomy surgery is performed through the inside of the mouth, there is no restriction on sunbathing or solarium use.

How much does bichectomy surgery cost?
In order to provide clear information about the cost of bichectomy surgery, the patient’s complaints and aesthetic expectations need to be evaluated objectively, and the procedures required need to be determined. Pricing information will be provided after the examination.

If you have any questions regarding surgeries or would like to be evaluated by Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Fatih Söylemez, you can request an appointment via WhatsApp or Contact Form now.