What is neck liposuction?
Neck liposuction (also called submental liposuction) is a technique that removes excess fatty tissue beneath the chin in the neck. Generally, the procedure removes an accumulation of fat that gives the neck a full appearance or “double chin.” Even patients that are fit or thin can have this issue because it is genetic and does not always improve with weight loss. Neck liposuction is often performed alongside a surgical neck lift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
How is neck liposuction performed?
This procedure can be done awake under local anesthesia, with sedation, or with general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference. Before the procedure, the area of the neck that is going to be contoured is marked. After the skin is numbed, a small incision about the size of a pencil eraser is made under the chin and behind each earlobe. Next, local anesthesia fluid is injected into the neck so that you are completely comfortable during the procedure. A liposuction cannula is used to suction out the unwanted fat for a tighter appearing neck. Once adequate fat is removed, absorbable sutures are placed in the incisions, which heal imperceptibly.
What is buccal fat reduction or removal?
Buccal fat is the cheek fat between your cheekbones and jaw bones in your face. These fat pads help make up the shape of your face. For patients with very round or “cherubic cheeks”, buccal fat removal can reduce or remove this fat pad in order to highlight the bone structure in your face. This procedure can highlight your cheekbones while giving your lower cheeks a more tapered appearance.
How is buccal fat reduction or removal performed?
The procedure is done through the mouth. This procedure can be done awake under local anesthesia, with sedation, or with general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s preference. Local anesthesia is injected into the mucosa of the cheek. After the patient is numb, a small incision is made inside the cheek and the buccal fat pad is teased out. The fat pad will then be excised and removed. After both sides are done, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.
Why are neck liposuction and buccal fat reduction/removal often done together?
For patients that want to improve the contour of the face, these procedures may be combined. Slimming the cheeks and removing unwanted fullness from the neck works synergistically. If a patient has full, round cheeks and a double chin, but desires to have a more tapered face and sharp jaw and neckline, then combining these procedures might be the right way to achieve that. These procedures can be performed simultaneously for improved results
Is the recovery worse by combining neck liposuction with buccal fat removal?
No! The procedures have a similar recovery. There is swelling for about a week with best results at around 3 months once skin has had the opportunity to fully contract. Most patients take over the counter pain medication after the surgery. You are able to eat soft foods after the combination surgery.
Where should I go to have neck liposuction and buccal fat removal performed?
First, it is important to have a consultation with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon to see if you are a candidate for these surgeries. Sometimes additional procedures will be recommended such as a chin implant or filler to improve the jawline. It is also important to understand that in the aesthetic surgical space, paying for a service is less about the procedure and more about the trained surgeon that provides the service. Dr. Beaty is a double-board certified in facial plastic surgery and has years of experience with these procedures.
