Facial harmony plays an enormous role in how we are perceived and how we perceive ourselves. The desire for definition has made procedures like bichectomy popular, as they directly address the buccal fat pad, a fat pocket that contributes to facial roundness. This procedure is available affordably in Turkey.
Are you interested in booking your buccal fat removal in Turkey with Dr. Cengizhan Ekizceli? Contact us for a free consultation on bichectomies, including pricing. If you’d like to know more before reaching out, keep reading to learn about the procedure.
Table of Contents
What is a bichectomy?
A bichectomy, also called buccal fat removal surgery or cheek reduction, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to reduce cheek fullness by removing the buccal fat pads, pockets of fat located deep within the lower cheeks.
These fat pads are distinct from the superficial facial fat layers and do not typically fluctuate significantly with changes in body weight. While some individuals are naturally blessed with high cheekbones, sculpted jawlines, and slim facial contours, others inherit fuller, rounder cheeks that can create a baby-faced appearance well into adulthood.
This fullness often leads to feelings of insecurity, as round cheeks may disguise bone structure and make the face appear heavier than the rest of the body. For many patients, this imbalance creates frustration: even with dieting, exercise, or weight management, the cheeks remain plump, leading to the impression of weight gain or a lack of definition.
On social media and in everyday life, the prevalence of sharp jawlines and defined cheek hollows in celebrities, influencers, and models has set a new aesthetic standard. Patients often compare themselves to these images and long for more pronounced cheekbones and sculpted contours.
The ultimate goal of bichectomy is to create a slimmer, more contoured midface, highlighting the cheekbones and enhancing overall facial harmony. The procedure is relatively quick, straightforward, and minimally invasive, making it an attractive option for patients seeking subtle but impactful refinement.
How Much Does a Bichectomy Cost in Turkey compared to the USA?
Buccal fat removal in Turkey costs $1,500 to $3,500, while the same procedure in the USA ranges from $4,000 to $8,000 or more. These significant savings are due to lower operating costs and favorable exchange rates in Turkey.
Despite the lower cost, Turkish surgeons like Dr. Cengizhan maintain high standards of care and use advanced aesthetic surgery techniques. Many international patients choose Turkey for quality results at a fraction of the price.
What Causes Full or Round Cheeks?
The appearance of plump cheeks can be influenced by several factors, with genetics being the primary determinant. Some individuals simply inherit larger buccal fat pads, leading to naturally fuller faces regardless of body weight, but genetics is not the only factor at play:
Weight Fluctuations |
Aging |
Other Factors |
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While buccal fat pads are relatively resistant to weight loss, overall weight changes can still influence facial volume, sometimes exaggerating the fullness of the cheeks. |
Over time, facial fat distribution changes, and in some people, buccal fat pads may remain prominent while other areas of the face lose volume. This can create an imbalance. |
Hormonal influences, facial structure, and even skin elasticity all play roles in how cheeks appear. |
For patients who struggle with persistent midface fullness despite lifestyle adjustments, bichectomy provides a targeted solution that directly addresses the anatomic source of the problem.
Who is a Good Candidate for Buccal Fat Removal?
Not everyone with round cheeks is an ideal candidate for buccal fat removal. Surgeons carefully assess a patient’s goals, facial anatomy, and overall health before recommending the procedure. Candidates generally include:
- Patients with full cheeks who want slimmer facial contours.
- Individuals seeking enhanced definition in the jawline and cheekbones.
- Healthy patients without underlying medical conditions that would complicate healing.
- Non-smokers or patients willing to quit smoking, since smoking delays healing and increases infection risk.
- Patients with realistic expectations, who understand that bichectomy refines contours but does not transform overall facial structure.
It is also important that patients are emotionally ready and have discussed their goals openly with their surgeon. Unrealistic expectations or the desire to look like a celebrity, rather than enhancing one’s own natural features, can lead to dissatisfaction.
Types of Bichectomy Approaches
Intraoral Incision |
Submental/Chin Incision (Rare) |
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(Most Common)Preferred method: leaves no visible scars and allows direct access to the buccal fat pads. |
Typically performed only in combined surgeries with procedures like a facelift or double chin removal. Not common for a standalone bichectomy. |
The Bichectomy Process
Preoperative Phase: Consultation and Preparation |
The journey begins with a thorough consultation. During this time, the surgeon examines facial anatomy, reviews medical history, and discusses goals. Patients are given preoperative instructions, such as:
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During the Procedure |
During the surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision (usually 1 to 1.5 centimeters) inside the mouth, through which the buccal fat pad is carefully extracted. The incision is then closed with absorbable sutures that dissolve naturally within about three weeks. The incision is intraoral (inside the mouth), and no visible scars remain on the skin. In rare cases, an incision under the chin may be used, but this is usually reserved for combined procedures such as a facelift or double chin removal. In rare combined surgeries (when paired with a neck lift), an incision under the chin may be used. However, for bichectomy alone, the intraoral route is overwhelmingly preferred. |
Postoperative Phase & Healing Process |
Immediately after surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery room before discharge. Post-op care involves:
Full healing typically takes a few weeks, with swelling subsiding significantly by the third week, revealing the refined facial contours. |
Are There Risks and Side Effects of Buccal Fat Removal?
As with all surgeries, bichectomy carries risks. These include:
- Swelling and bruising: Common but temporary.
- Pain or discomfort: Usually mild and managed with prescribed medications.
- Temporary sensory changes: Numbness in the cheek area may occur but typically resolves.
- Infection: Rare but possible if oral hygiene is not maintained.
- Asymmetry: Removal must be precise; an experienced surgeon minimizes this risk.
- Damage to facial nerves or parotid duct: Extremely rare but possible in unskilled hands.
- Sunken appearance over time: As aging progresses, loss of facial volume combined with buccal fat removal can sometimes lead to hollow cheeks.
How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Buccal Fat Removal
Selecting a qualified surgeon is crucial. Patients should look for:
- Board-certified plastic surgeons with experience in facial contouring
- Before-and-after photos of previous bichectomy patients
- A clear discussion of risks, benefits, and realistic outcomes
- A surgeon who prioritizes safety, sterility, and patient comfort
Dr. Cengizhan is your safest bet for ensuring all goes smoothly and according to plan.
Longevity of Results
Unlike diet-related fat, buccal fat pads do not regenerate after removal. Results are permanent. However, natural aging and weight fluctuations can still alter facial appearance over time. Patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle can expect long-lasting benefits.
Other Facial Contouring Surgeries to Consider with a Bichectomy
A Bichectomy is often combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance overall results:
- Dimple creation surgery
- Lipofilling (fat transfer)
- Jawline liposuction
- Facelifts or neck lifts
Combining procedures allows surgeons to create a balanced, rejuvenated look tailored to each patient’s goals.
What Are Some Common Myths About Buccal Fat Removal
Myth: It makes you look gaunt immediately |
Myth: It’s the same as weight loss |
Myth: Scars will be visible |
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Truth: Results are subtle and enhance natural features. Over-resection is avoided. |
Truth: Bichectomy targets a specific fat pad unaffected by dieting. |
Truth: Intraoral incisions heal invisibly inside the mouth. |
Contact Dr. Cengizhan for a Consultation
Bichectomy is a safe, effective, and permanent solution for patients seeking slimmer cheeks and more defined facial contours. While genetics and lifestyle play major roles in cheek fullness, buccal fat removal offers a direct way to refine facial proportions. Choosing an experienced surgeon, maintaining realistic expectations, and committing to proper post-op care are key to achieving beautiful, natural-looking results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty Surgery in Turkey
When can the results be seen?
Some improvement is visible immediately after surgery. However, swelling can mask the final result. By about three weeks post-op, once swelling subsides, the refined contour becomes clear. Full results continue to improve over the following weeks as any residual swelling completely resolves and your facial contours fully settle into their new shape.
Will there be scars?
No visible scars remain. Intraoral incisions heal naturally, and even the small mucosal scar inside the mouth fades within weeks. Since the incision is made inside the mouth near the upper molars, there is no external scarring on your face. This is one of the major advantages of bichectomy compared to other facial contouring procedures.
Is the surgery painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort, easily managed with prescribed pain relievers. Any discomfort typically peaks in the first few days and gradually subsides. Following post-operative care instructions, including soft diet recommendations and oral hygiene practices, helps minimize pain and promotes faster healing throughout your recovery.
Can buccal fat return after surgery?
Once removed, the fat pads do not grow back. However, overall weight gain or aging can still affect facial contours. The buccal fat pads are permanently removed and will not regenerate. This means your results are lasting, though natural aging and significant weight changes may subtly alter your appearance over many years.
What happens if you don't stop smoking before surgery?
Smoking decreases blood flow, delays healing, increases infection risk, and may even compromise final results. Quitting before and after surgery is strongly advised. Smoking can impair your body’s ability to heal properly and may lead to complications. We recommend stopping at least two weeks before your procedure and avoiding smoking during your entire recovery period.
Which incision is more common: inside the mouth or under the chin?
The incision inside the mouth is the standard and most common approach. Under-the-chin incisions are very rare and usually reserved for combined surgeries. The intraoral incision is preferred because it leaves no visible scars, provides direct access to the buccal fat pads, and results in faster healing with minimal complications.
Is bichectomy permanent?
Yes, bichectomy results are permanent. Once the buccal fat pads are removed, they do not grow back or regenerate. Your refined cheek contours will last a lifetime. However, natural aging and significant weight fluctuations can still subtly affect your overall facial appearance over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps preserve your results for years to come.
What is the recovery time for bichectomy?
Most patients experience significant improvement within one to two weeks. By three weeks, swelling subsides considerably, revealing your refined contours. You can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities within one to two weeks. Full healing takes about four weeks, though final results continue to improve as residual swelling resolves.
Can you combine bichectomy with other procedures?
Bichectomy is often combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as dimple creation, jawline liposuction, facelifts, or neck lifts. Combining procedures allows surgeons to create balanced, harmonious facial contours tailored to your goals. This integrated approach can enhance overall results and may reduce total recovery time compared to having separate surgeries. Dr. Cengizhan can recommend complementary procedures during your consultation.
Who is a good candidate for Bichectomy?
Good candidates are healthy individuals with full cheeks who desire slimmer facial contours and more defined cheekbones. You should have realistic expectations and understand that bichectomy refines contours rather than transforming overall facial structure. Non-smokers or those willing to quit are ideal candidates. Emotional readiness and open communication with your surgeon about your goals are essential for satisfaction.
What are the risks of bichectomy?
Common risks include temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Rare complications include infection, asymmetry, temporary numbness, or nerve damage. Over-resection can lead to a sunken appearance over time as aging progresses. Choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Cengizhan and following post-operative care instructions carefully significantly minimizes these risks.
How long does bichectomy surgery take?
Bichectomy typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether it is a standalone procedure or combined with other surgeries. The procedure is relatively quick and straightforward because it involves removing a specific fat pad through a small intraoral incision. Combination procedures may take longer. Dr. Cengizhan’s efficient technique ensures minimal surgical time while maintaining precision and safety.
Can a bichectomy go wrong?
Serious complications are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon. Potential issues include asymmetry, over-resection leading to hollow cheeks, infection, or nerve damage. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Cengizhan, who has extensive bichectomy experience, significantly reduces these risks. Following pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully also helps ensure optimal outcomes.
What is the minimum age for bichectomy?
While there is no strict legal minimum age, most surgeons recommend waiting until facial growth is complete, typically around 18 to 21 years old. At this age, facial structure is fully developed and you can make informed decisions about cosmetic procedures. Emotional maturity and realistic expectations are equally important. Dr. Cengizhan evaluates each patient individually during consultation.
How does a bichectomy differ from cheek implants?
Bichectomy removes existing buccal fat to create definition, while cheek implants add volume to enhance cheekbones. Bichectomy is ideal for those with full cheeks seeking slimmer contours. Cheek implants suit those wanting more prominent cheekbones. Some patients combine both procedures for optimal results. Dr. Cengizhan can recommend the best approach based on your facial anatomy and goals.
Is a bichectomy suitable for men?
Yes, bichectomy is suitable for men seeking more defined jawlines and sculpted cheekbones. Men often desire a stronger, more angular facial appearance. The procedure works equally well for male patients and can enhance masculine features. Dr. Cengizhan tailors the approach to preserve natural male characteristics while achieving the desired definition and contour refinement.
What should I eat after bichectomy?
Stick to soft or liquid foods for the first few days to avoid damaging sutures. Good options include yogurt, smoothies, soup, mashed potatoes, and protein shakes. Avoid hot, spicy, and otherwise vigorous-chewing foods. By one week post-op, you can gradually introduce normal foods as healing progresses. Proper nutrition supports faster healing and optimal results.
