Bichectomy (Buccal Fat Removal) In Turkey
Bichectomy, commonly known as buccal fat removal, is a straightforward and safe procedure performed in an office setting under local anesthesia. During this procedure, the buccal fat pads, located in each cheek, are carefully removed. This treatment is particularly beneficial for individuals with rounder faces or fuller cheeks, resulting in more defined cheekbones and a slimmer facial contour.
How Is a Bichectomy Performed?
In a Bichectomy, experienced plastic surgeons remove the Bichat fat pads from the inner cheeks. The procedure begins when the surgeon applies a local anesthetic to numb the area, allowing them to make small incisions inside the cheeks. Through these incisions, the surgeon carefully extracts the excess fat, bit by bit, until they remove the entire fat pad. The intraoral approach ensures that the exterior of the face remains free of visible scarring. After removing the fat, the surgeon sutures the incision sites to initiate the healing process.
Bichectomy is a quick outpatient procedure, typically completed within an hour. Patients can return home the same day, as local anesthesia allows them to remain awake during the surgery. Most patients experience minimal downtime and can even drive themselves home afterward. For those who prefer a light sleep-like state during the procedure, the surgical team can arrange this in advance to ensure comfort and safety.
Recovery Period: What to Expect
The recovery period for a Bichectomy generally lasts up to 14 days. Sutures are usually removed within five to seven days if dissolvable stitches were not used. While the incision sites may heal relatively quickly, some inflammation may persist for several weeks. This temporary swelling is a normal part of the healing process and will gradually subside. Final results may take three to six months to fully appear, as the skin adjusts to the newly contoured area where the fat was removed.
We recommend taking one to two weeks off work to rest and support the healing process. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery, and your doctor can prescribe pain relief medications if necessary.
Once all inflammation has resolved, you can expect to enjoy more pronounced cheekbones, slimmer cheeks, and a more elongated, youthful facial appearance.
Are You a Good Candidate for Bichectomy?
As with any cosmetic surgery, you need to have a personalized consultation to determine your eligibility for Bichectomy. During this initial consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history and current medications to assess your suitability for the procedure. This meeting also provides an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns and to understand the potential results.
Bichectomy is ideal for individuals who feel their face appears overly round or chubby despite efforts with diet and exercise. People with fuller, rounder faces are likely to benefit the most, as the procedure effectively reduces the middle third of the face. Ideal candidates are typically over 18 years old, in good physical health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations of the achievable results.
It’s important to understand that, like any surgery, Bichectomy carries some risks. Potential complications include excessive bleeding, infection, and rare instances of nerve or muscle damage. Your doctor will thoroughly explain these risks and discuss strategies to minimize them.
Choosing a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon is crucial to ensuring a smooth and safe procedure. A board-certified plastic surgeon will help mitigate risks and ensure your satisfaction with the results. Additionally, they will monitor your progress with follow-up visits to support your recovery.
Tips to Optimize Bichectomy Recovery
To ensure a smooth recovery after Bichectomy, consider the following tips:
- Use Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to your cheeks for about 10 minutes every hour during the first three days to help reduce swelling.
- Drink Ice Water: Sipping on ice water can help minimize intraoral swelling.
- Wear a Chin Strap: For the first two weeks, wear the prescribed chin strap at night to provide extra support to the facial skin.
- Avoid Touching Sutures: Refrain from playing with the sutures using your tongue until your surgeon gives the all-clear.
- Stick to a Soft-Food Diet: To reduce the risk of reopening surgical incisions, maintain a diet of soft foods during the initial weeks following the procedure.
- Avoid Hot or Spicy Foods: For the first 24 hours post-surgery, steer clear of hot or spicy foods as they may irritate the incision sites and cause discomfort.
- Do Not Smoke: Smoking during the recovery period can irritate the incisions and restrict blood flow, which may slow down the healing process.
Recovery Process
What to Expect After Bichectomy
Recovery from bichectomy is typically quick, with most patients experiencing swelling and mild discomfort for the first 1–2 weeks. You may also notice some tightness in the cheeks as the swelling subsides. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but it may take up to 4–6 weeks for the final results to be fully visible as the swelling diminishes. Cold compresses and pain medications prescribed by your surgeon will help reduce swelling and discomfort during the initial recovery period.
Resuming Physical Activities After Surgery
Light activities, such as walking, can be resumed within a few days after the procedure. However, it is important to avoid strenuous physical activities, such as contact sports or exercises that may impact the facial area, for at least four weeks. Sports or activities that risk injury to the face should be avoided until your surgeon gives you clearance to resume them.
Maintaining the Results of Bichectomy
The results of bichectomy are long-lasting, provided you maintain a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. Significant weight gain or loss can affect the appearance of the face, potentially altering the results. Regular check-ups with your surgeon and proper skincare will help preserve the results for many years.
Scarring After Bichectomy
Bichectomy typically leaves minimal to no visible scars, as the incisions are made inside the mouth. With proper care, including keeping the incision areas clean and avoiding excessive pressure on the cheeks, the scars will heal quickly and be virtually invisible. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal healing.
Understanding the Risks of Bichectomy
While bichectomy is generally considered a safe procedure, there are some risks involved, including infection, facial asymmetry, or numbness. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon, such as those at ClinMedica, significantly reduces these risks. Following all post-operative care instructions is essential to avoid complications and ensure a smooth recovery.
Benefits of Bichectomy in Turkey
Bichectomy offers several aesthetic benefits, including enhanced cheekbone definition, a slimmer facial appearance, and improved overall facial balance. Many patients opt for this procedure to achieve a more sculpted, contoured look, which can boost self-confidence and enhance facial harmony.
Who Is Not a Suitable Candidate for Bichectomy?
Not everyone is a good candidate for bichectomy. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or those with unrealistic expectations, may not be suitable for the procedure. It’s also important that the patient has sufficient facial fat to remove, as the goal is to slim the cheeks without compromising facial volume. A thorough consultation with your surgeon will determine if bichectomy is right for you.
Things to Do After Bichectomy
Key Post-Operative Care Steps
After your bichectomy, following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions is essential. This includes maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or chewy foods during the first week, and applying cold compresses to reduce swelling. You may also be advised to sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor your healing and ensure the best possible results.
Things to Avoid During Recovery
To promote healing and reduce the risk of complications, avoid smoking and alcohol consumption during the recovery period, as these can interfere with the healing process. Strenuous activities, including any sports that could impact the facial area, should be avoided for at least four weeks. Additionally, avoid sun exposure, as this can worsen swelling and delay healing.
How Long Should You Stay in Istanbul for the Procedure?
If you’re traveling to Turkey for bichectomy, plan to stay in Istanbul for about 5–7 days. This will allow enough time for the surgery, initial recovery, and follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure that you are healing properly before returning home.
How Many Nights Will You Stay in the Hospital?
Bichectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning that you will not need to stay overnight in the hospital. However, depending on your specific case or if you undergo multiple procedures, your surgeon may recommend staying one night for observation.
Pre-Procedure Instructions for International Patients
If you’re traveling to Turkey for bichectomy, it’s important to prepare accordingly:
- Medical Preparation: Complete any necessary medical tests and provide your surgeon with a detailed medical history.
- Packing: Bring loose, comfortable clothing, particularly tops that are easy to wear after surgery, such as button-up or zip-up shirts.
- Flexible Flight Plans: Arrange flexible flights in case your recovery takes longer than expected.
- Documentation: Carry all relevant medical records, including test results and pre-surgery clearances from your healthcare provider.
Do You Need a Companion for the Procedure?
While a companion is not mandatory for bichectomy, it is recommended to have someone with you for the first few days after surgery. A companion can assist with daily tasks, provide emotional support, and help you manage your recovery. If traveling alone, consider arranging for post-surgical care at your accommodation.
Post-Surgery Instructions
What Should You Do After Bichectomy?
Your surgeon will provide detailed post-surgery instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. These typically include maintaining oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods, and applying cold compresses to minimize swelling. Make sure to follow all post-operative care guidelines closely and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
Traveling Home After Surgery
Guidelines for Airport and In-Flight Care
If you’re flying home after bichectomy in Turkey, especially on a long-haul flight, it’s important to take the following precautions:
- Timing Your Flight
Plan to stay in Istanbul for at least 5–7 days after surgery to allow for initial healing and follow-up care before flying home. - In-Flight Care
During your flight:- Move Around Regularly: Walking around the cabin every 1–2 hours can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen swelling.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothes to avoid unnecessary pressure on the face or body.
- Pain Management: Keep prescribed pain medications and any necessary oral care products in your carry-on luggage and take them as directed.
- Airport Assistance
Navigating the airport after surgery can be exhausting, so consider requesting assistance, such as a wheelchair or help with luggage, to avoid overexertion. Avoid carrying heavy bags and use rolling luggage to minimize physical strain. - Long-Haul Flight Considerations
For long-distance travel, it’s essential to move around regularly to prevent stiffness and swelling. Plan for additional rest once you arrive home to allow your body to fully recover before resuming normal activities.
By following these post-surgery and travel guidelines, you can ensure a smooth recovery and a safe journey home after your bichectomy procedure. ClinMedica will provide comprehensive care instructions to help you achieve the best possible results.
Buccal Fat Removal FAQs
How Long Does Buccal Fat Removal Surgery Take?
Buccal fat removal is an effective stand-alone procedure but is often combined with other surgeries like facial fat transfer, chin augmentation, or rhinoplasty. When performed on its own, the procedure typically takes between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on factors such as the type of anesthesia used and the ease of locating and removing the fat pad.
How Long Are the Incisions for Buccal Fat Removal?
The incision for buccal fat removal is approximately 1.5 centimeters in length.
Will Buccal Fat Removal Make Me Look Older?
The outcome of buccal fat removal depends on the correct diagnosis and precise removal of fat. When performed correctly, the results are stunning and natural. However, removing too much fat can lead to a gaunt or aged appearance. A thorough consultation and assessment with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon are essential to achieving the desired results.
Why Combine Facial Fat Transfer with Buccal Fat Removal?
Achieving facial harmony is about balance. For many individuals, adding or removing fat in specific areas is crucial to creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.
Are There Dietary Restrictions After Buccal Fat Removal?
Post-surgery, you can generally eat and drink as you wish, provided your incisions are healing properly. To support recovery, it’s advisable to follow a low-sodium diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid consuming foods or supplements containing cannabis two days before the procedure and during recovery.
When Will You See the Final Results?
You will notice an improvement in the contour of your face shortly after the surgery, but the final results of bichectomy will take several weeks to fully develop as the swelling subsides. It’s important to be patient during this time, as your face will gradually settle into its new shape over the following months.