Buccal fat removal slims the lower cheeks by removing part of a fat pad that sits deep in the cheek. It is a short operation with no visible scar, and it is permanent, which is exactly why it should not be decided quickly. In this guide New City Clinic explains who it suits.
What is the buccal fat pad?
It is a pocket of fat between the cheek muscles, separate from the fat under the skin, and its size is largely inherited rather than related to weight. In people with a naturally round lower face it can make the cheeks look full even at a low body weight. Removing part of it gives more definition beneath the cheekbone.
Who is suitable, and who is not?
It suits adults with persistently full lower cheeks and a stable weight. It is not advised for people with an already slim or long face, and caution is needed in the young: the face loses fat naturally with age, and removing too much can lead to a hollow, older look years later. A careful surgeon removes a conservative amount and will sometimes advise against the procedure.
How is it done?
Through a small incision inside each cheek, the fat pad is gently teased out and partly removed, then the incision is closed with dissolving stitches. It takes about 30–45 minutes, usually under local anaesthesia with sedation. Nearby structures include the salivary duct and branches of the facial nerve, so the operation should be performed by a specialist who knows the anatomy.
Buccal fat removal: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Buccal fat removal with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about buccal fat removal, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
Days 1–3
Swelling of the cheeks; soft diet; antiseptic mouth rinses.
Days 4–7
Check-up; most patients fly home; swelling begins to settle.
Weeks 2–4
Normal eating; the cheeks still look fuller than the final result.
Months 3–4
Swelling has gone and the contour is final.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
Is buccal fat removal permanent?
Yes. The fat removed does not return, which is why a conservative approach is important.
Will my face look gaunt later?
That is the main long-term risk if too much is removed or if the face is already slim. Proper selection and a modest removal reduce it.
When will I see the result?
Swelling hides the change at first. The contour emerges over six to twelve weeks.
Deciding on buccal fat removal is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
