Bichectomy

What is Bichectomy (Cheek Fat Removal)?

Bichectomy, popularly known as cheek thinning or cheek liposuction, is a plastic surgery procedure performed to clarify facial contours.
This procedure removes excess fatty tissue from the cheek area of the face, resulting in thinner, sharper and more defined facial features.
Bichectomy is preferred by people who are uncomfortable with the fullness of the cheeks and want to have a more prominent jawline and cheekbones.

The round and full appearance of the cheeks can make the face appear fatter than it actually is in some people.
Bichectomy creates a more aesthetic facial structure by removing excess fat in the cheek area.
The procedure is performed with a minimally invasive surgical intervention and offers permanent results.

Who is Bichectomy Suitable for?

Bichectomy is suitable for people who want to make their facial features more defined and who complain about the fullness of their cheeks.
This procedure is generally preferred in the following cases:

• People with round face structure: People with full and round cheeks can make their facial features thinner and sharper by choosing this procedure.
• Those who want to emphasize their cheekbones: By removing fat from the cheeks, cheekbones are made more prominent and facial features are emphasized.
• Defining the jawline: The bichectomy procedure also contributes to a sharper appearance of the jawline.
  As a result of this procedure, a more symmetrical and aesthetic facial appearance is achieved.
• Those who want a slimmer face: People who think that their face looks fatter than it is can have a slimmer face with bichectomy.

The most suitable candidates for bichectomy are individuals who are in good general health and who complain about the fullness of their cheeks despite weight loss.
In addition, this procedure is recommended from the late 20s onwards because facial structure and fat distribution usually settle after this age.

How is a Bichectomy Performed?

Bichectomy is a simple surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia or sedation.
The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes and is performed by making a small incision in the cheek and removing excess fatty tissue.
Since the surgeon performs this procedure by accessing the cheek through the mouth, there is no visible scar on the outside.

The bichectomy procedure is performed in the following steps:

1. Making the incisions: The surgeon makes a small incision through the mouth, on the inside of the cheeks.
   This incision allows access to the fat pads.
   Usually the incision is about 1 cm long and is not visible from the outside because it is inside the mouth.

2. Removal of fat tissue: The “buccal” fat tissue inside the cheek is removed.
   These fat pads are the tissues that cause the face to look full and round.
   By removing these fat pads, the surgeon slims the facial contours.

3. Closure of incisions: After the fat pads are removed, the incision is closed with fine sutures.
   Since these sutures are inside the mouth, self-melting sutures are generally preferred and no scars are left.

After the procedure, the cheeks become thinner and facial features become more defined.
After surgery, patients are usually discharged on the same day and are recommended to rest at home.

Preparation Before Bichectomy Surgery

The consultation with your surgeon before the bichectomy surgery is very important for a successful operation.
The surgeon will explain how the surgery will be performed, your expectations after the procedure and possible risks.
The main points to be considered before the operation are as follows:

• Smoking: If you smoke, you will need to quit at least two weeks before surgery.
  Smoking can negatively affect wound healing and increase the risk of complications after surgery.
• Blood thinners: The use of blood thinners such as aspirin should be stopped before surgery.
  Such medications may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
• General health status: Your surgeon will assess your general health and determine whether you are suitable for surgery.

Recovery Process After Bichectomy Surgery

Recovery after bichectomy surgery is usually fast and patients can return to their daily activities within a few days.
However, it may take several weeks for the full results to appear.
The main points to be considered during the healing process are as follows:

• Swelling and bruising: There may be mild swelling and bruising on the cheeks after surgery.
  This is normal and usually subsides within 1 to 2 weeks.
• Oral hygiene It is very important to pay attention to oral hygiene after surgery.
  You should take care of your mouth as prescribed by your doctor to prevent the incisions in your mouth from becoming infected.
  Liquid mouthwashes and antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Nutrition: It is recommended to eat soft foods for the first few days after surgery.
  Solid foods can make it difficult for the incisions to heal.
• Pain and discomfort: There may be some mild pain after the surgery.
  Your doctor will give you painkillers to alleviate this.

It can take 2 to 3 months for full results to appear.
During this time, the swelling in the cheeks completely subsides and the facial features become clearer.

Risks of Bichectomy Surgery

As with any surgical operation, bichectomy surgery has some risks.
However, these risks are minimal when performed by an experienced surgeon.
Possible risks are as follows:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Delayed wound healing
• Nerve damage and loss of sensation (temporary)
• Asymmetry (difference between cheeks)

To minimize these risks, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and pay attention to the postoperative care process.