Facial Surgery

Buccal Fat Removal

Buccal Fat Removal is a facial contouring procedure that reduces the volume of the buccal fat pads within the cheeks to create more definition through the mid-face and enhance overall facial harmony.

Hospital Stay

Day case

Recovery Time

1-3 months for full refinement

Time Off Work

Several days

Anaesthesia

TIVA Anaesthesia

Exercise

Avoid strenuous exercise during the first week

Price

£6,500

Procedure

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Buccal Fat Removal is a facial contouring procedure designed to create more definition through the mid-face by carefully reducing the volume of the buccal fat pads within the cheeks. The goal is not to create an exaggerated or hollow appearance, but to enhance the natural contours of the face and improve overall facial harmony. Performed exclusively by Dr Yannis Alexandrides, successful outcomes rely on careful patient selection as much as surgical technique – rather than removing the entire fat pad, only the appropriate amount is reduced to preserve a youthful appearance that will continue to age beautifully.

Expected Effects & Benefits

Reveals better cheekbone definition
Creates a slimmer, more sculpted facial contour
Preserves natural facial support for long-term, natural ageing

Your Journey

Your Buccal Fat Removal Journey

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Yannis Alexandrides. He will take time to understand your concerns, medical history, lifestyle and desired result, alongside a detailed assessment of your facial anatomy, cheek fullness, buccal fat distribution, facial proportions and overall symmetry.

This allows Dr Yannis Alexandrides to determine whether Buccal Fat Removal is appropriate for you and create a personalised surgical plan designed to refine the lower cheeks while maintaining natural facial balance. Where removal may compromise facial harmony or contribute to a hollow appearance over time, an alternative approach may be recommended.

Ahead of surgery, you will have a comprehensive pre-operative assessment with our nursing team. This includes a review of your medical history, current medications, lifestyle and overall health, alongside any physical assessment or clinical tests required for your individual surgical plan.

Our team will explain what to expect before and after surgery, answer any questions and ensure you are appropriately prepared for your procedure and recovery.

Good nutrition, hydration and healthy lifestyle habits can help prepare your body for surgery and support the healing process. You will receive personalised guidance on diet, medications, exercise, smoking cessation where appropriate, and practical preparation before your procedure.

Every recommendation is tailored to your individual health, lifestyle and surgical plan to ensure your preparation is appropriate for you.

Healthy, well-conditioned skin forms an important part of your preparation for facial surgery. Ahead of your procedure, our team may recommend a personalised skincare programme or selected treatments to optimise skin quality and prepare the treatment area.

Where appropriate, this may include ElixirMD Light Therapy, 111SKIN skincare or Dr Yannis Alexandrides’ Dramatic Healing Serum, selected according to your individual skin and surgical plan.

Our care continues well beyond your procedure. Following Buccal Fat Removal, our clinical team will monitor your healing through scheduled reviews, with particular attention to swelling, the intraoral incision sites and the developing facial contours.

You will receive personalised guidance on oral hygiene, diet and activity during the early stages of recovery. Where appropriate, an IV drip or other post-operative support may also form part of your individual aftercare programme.

As your recovery progresses, Dr Yannis Alexandrides and our clinical team will review your facial contours, symmetry and developing result at scheduled follow-up appointments.

Where appropriate, personalised skincare and selected treatments may be recommended to support long-term skin health and complement the balance and definition of your facial contours.

Procedure

How does Buccal Fat Removal work?

Buccal Fat Removal works by reducing the volume of the buccal fat pads through small incisions made inside the mouth, leaving no visible external scars. Dr Yannis carefully reduces – rather than completely removes – the fat pad, preserving the facial support required for long-term, natural ageing. Because the procedure permanently alters facial volume, precise planning and conservative fat reduction are essential to achieving elegant, balanced results.

UNDERSTANDING FACIAL CONTOURING:

The buccal fat pads sit within the cheeks and contribute to lower facial fullness.
Reducing their volume can reveal better cheekbone and jawline definition.
Because ageing naturally reduces facial volume over time, conservative reduction helps preserve a youthful appearance for the future.

WHY PATIENT SELECTION MATTERS:

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for Buccal Fat Removal.
Removing too much fat can create an over-hollow appearance that becomes more noticeable with age.

Dr Yannis carefully determines exactly how much volume to preserve for natural, timeless results.

Procedure

Surgical Techniques & Technology

Your Journey

The 5-Step Process

Consultation

A comprehensive facial assessment with Dr Yannis Alexandrides to understand your concerns, evaluate your cheek anatomy and determine whether Buccal Fat Removal is appropriate for you.

1

Preparation

Pre-operative health assessment, medication review and personalised guidance on nutrition, lifestyle, skin and tissue preparation.

2

Surgery

Buccal Fat Removal performed under TIVA Anaesthesia, with the amount of fat removed carefully tailored to your individual anatomy, facial proportions and surgical plan.

3

Recovery

Post-operative support, oral-care guidance and structured clinical reviews as swelling subsides and the facial contours begin to settle.

4

Long Term Care

Ongoing clinical review and personalised skin support where appropriate to complement your facial contours and support long-term skin quality.

5

Your Journey

Recovery Timeline

1–2 Weeks

Initial swelling, tenderness and tightness through the cheeks progressively subside as the tissues begin to heal. Your surgical team will provide personalised guidance on oral care, diet and activity during the early recovery period.

2–6 Weeks

Swelling continues to reduce and greater definition through the cheeks and lower face gradually becomes visible. Everyday activity can progressively increase, with exercise reintroduced according to your recovery and the guidance of your surgical team.

6 Weeks–6 Months

The tissues continue to settle and the facial contours become increasingly refined and natural. Subtle changes can continue as residual swelling resolves and the cheeks adapt to their new proportions.

6–12 Months

The longer-term facial contour becomes increasingly established as the tissues fully settle. Dr Yannis Alexandrides and our clinical team will continue to assess the balance and natural appearance of your result where required.

Long-Term Care

Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle can help support the appearance of your facial contours. Where appropriate, personalised skincare and selected non-surgical treatments may also be recommended to support long-term skin quality and facial balance.

Your Journey

Post surgery activity guidelines

Shower

AS NORMAL

Incisions are inside the mouth; maintain oral hygiene.

Driving

3-5 DAYS

Resume only when comfortable, alert and no longer taking strong pain relief.

Work

Several days

Timing depends on swelling and confidence returning to work.

Exercise

1-2 WEEKS

Avoid strenuous exercise during the first week, resuming gently thereafter.

Suitability & Safety

Am I suitable for Buccal Fat Removal?

Ideal Candidate Profile

Buccal Fat Removal may be suitable for patients who: – Feel their cheeks appear disproportionately full – Desire greater cheekbone definition – Want a slimmer, more sculpted facial contour – Have naturally prominent buccal fat pads – Maintain a healthy, stable body weight but still experience facial fullness Suitability is confirmed during consultation – not everyone is a suitable candidate for this procedure.

Risks & Complications

As with any surgery, risks may include bleeding, infection, swelling, altered sensation, asymmetry, over-reduction, delayed healing and anaesthetic risks. These risks are discussed in detail during consultation, alongside the steps taken to reduce them through careful planning, surgical technique and aftercare.

Your Surgeon

Dr Yannis Alexandrides

Dr Yannis Alexandrides’ expertise in facial reconstructive surgery allows him to create subtle, natural-looking improvements while preserving youthful facial support. Although technically straightforward, Buccal Fat Removal requires careful judgement – his conservative approach ensures natural, timeless results rather than an over-hollow appearance.

Pricing

Overview

Every patient and procedure at 111 Harley St. is unique, which is why surgical pricing is tailored to your individual case rather than based on a one-size-fits-all approach.

The cost of your procedure will depend on factors such as your anatomy, the complexity of surgery, the technique required and your personalised treatment plan.

Following your consultation and assessment, our team will provide a clear, individualised quotation based on the surgery recommended for you.

Finance Calculator

Loan Amount: £5,000

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Term: 12 months

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First Payment

0 Monthly Payment

0 Interest Rate*

0

*Interest rates are subject to status and individual credit score.

Resources

Reviews

     
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ellie Hook 
 3 September 2026
 
 
  I came to the 111 Harley Street for UltraClear laser treatment with Claudia Brand. She was absolutely incredible, talking me through the process and made me feel very safe. She was also brilliant throughout the process. I cannot wait to see my result! Thank you Claudia!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jenna Nicholls 
 2 September 2026
 
 
  Really lovely team - thank you Anna and Jamy for looking after me during treatment! Can’t wait for the results 🥰
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Edward Smith 
 31 August 2026
 
 
  Very Impressed With My Rhinoplasty I had been unhappy with the shape of my nose for years and finally decided to look into rhinoplasty. Choosing the right surgeon and clinic was extremely important to me, so I spent a lot of time researching before booking my consultation at 111 Harley St. The consultation was detailed and reassuring, and I appreciated the focus on achieving a result that suited my face rather than simply changing my nose. The whole process was handled professionally, from the initial consultation through to the follow-up appointments. My nose now looks much more balanced with the rest of my face, and the improvement is significant without looking artificial.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Louise F 
 28 August 2026
 
 
  I had my consultation with Anna and honestly couldn’t have been happier with the experience. She took the time to really listen to all of my concerns and went through everything with me in so much detail, including the different treatment options. I really appreciated how thorough and attentive she was, and the whole consultation felt very personal and tailored specifically to me rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. I felt really comfortable and well looked after. I’m really happy with the experience and will definitely be coming back for my treatment. Thank you so much, Anna!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mily Barnett 
 27 August 2026
 
 
  Spoke to Anna about all my skin concerns over a consultation - she was super helpful, knowledgeable and can’t wait to start my journey with 111 Skin. Thank you Anna.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mia Raggett 
 25 August 2026
 
 
  Had a lovely consultation with Anna, helped me so much with my questions and was very friendly. Thanks!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Yasmine Rabah 
 20 August 2026
 
 
  Just did the thermale treatment and the whole experience with the staff and the treatment and care has been superb. I highly recommend. Will let you know how it goes with the other treatments that I will do:)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kat M 
 19 August 2026
 
 
  Fantastic facial with Jamy and consultation with Anna. Would 100% recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Rosie Walker 
 17 August 2026
 
 
  A Wonderful Experience I decided to explore a Y Facelift after becoming increasingly unhappy with the loss of definition around my lower face. I was initially quite nervous about having facial surgery, so having a detailed consultation was really important to me. Everything was explained clearly and I felt comfortable asking lots of questions. I’m so pleased with the outcome my face looks fresher and more defined, but it still looks completely like me.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Anna 
 10 August 2026
 
 
  Amazing experience with Claudia. I was really nervous but she put me at ease and explained the process to me. I would definitely recommend coming here for all aesthetic treatments!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Altay Ali 
 7 August 2026
 
 
  Claudia Is always amazing, and I would highly recommend her services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Robert White 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  Claudia was amazing! Really friendly, polite and professional. Will 100% be coming back.
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Jessica Thomas 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  The Best Decision I Made I had a facelift at 111 Harley Street. From my very first consultation, I felt completely comfortable and confident that I was in safe hands. The surgeon took the time to understand what I wanted to achieve and explained every stage of the process clearly, from the operation itself to the recovery and expected results. The care I received was outstanding from start to finish. Every member of the team was kind, professional, and incredibly supportive. They were always available to answer any questions, and I felt genuinely looked after throughout my entire journey. Now that I've fully recovered, I am absolutely delighted with the results. I look refreshed, younger, and far more confident, while still looking completely natural. The best compliment I've received is that people keep telling me I look really well without realising I've had surgery. It's exactly the subtle, natural result I was hoping for. Choosing 111 Harley Street was one of the best decisions I've made. The expertise, attention to detail, and exceptional aftercare exceeded all of my expectations. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone considering a facelift.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hannah Lucy 
 31 July 2026
 
 
  I had a consultation with Anna who was so knowledgeable and extremely friendly. The team were welcoming and I look forward to starting treatment.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Aashika Balaji 
 31 July 2026
 
 
  Claudia is excellent and incredibly intuitive
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   William Julian Taranu-Lee 
 29 July 2026
 
 
  Had such a lovely consultation at 111 Harley St. I felt so welcomed and comfortable in their hands, and really appreciated their honest cosmetic advice. Would absolutely recommend having a consultation at 111 Harley St. You won’t regret it :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bilgi P 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  +0
I had plastic surgery from doctor Ashvani in 2019 and he messed up my tummy completely. I lost all my sensation in my tummy area and after 7 years, I still regret of having tummy tuck with him. He stitched my whole tummy tuck area without leaving drainage after the operation. I ended up having this massive hole in my tummy area. I have the most horrible scars and I don’t wear bikini for not showing my belly button. You can see how bad his stitches are from the photo. Please do your research before you trust him so you don’t regret like I did. My friend had similar operation in Turkey and you would not even notice she had plastic surgery.my advice is  go to Turkey to have proper plastic surgery with surgeons who knows how do operate.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Georgia Westley 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  Had a consultation with Anna who helped with my skin concerns, she helped advice on treatments and products to support on my hyper pigmentation and dryness. Would highly recommend
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chloe L 
 27 July 2026
 
 
  Really pleased with my consultation with Anna. She explained everything clearly, and the skin scanning was very insightful. Everyone was warm and friendly – I’d highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Zara Walsh 
 27 July 2026
 
 
  Thank you so much, great experience!
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 856 reviews,showing our latest reviews

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Buccal Fat Removal make my face look hollow?

Not when performed appropriately. Dr Yannis Alexandrides carefully reduces rather than completely removes the buccal fat pad, preserving natural facial volume while enhancing definition.

Will there be visible scars?

No. All incisions are made inside the mouth, meaning there are no visible external scars.

Is Buccal Fat Removal permanent?

Yes. Once removed, the buccal fat does not regenerate, making the contouring effect permanent.

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you should remain comfortable throughout treatment. Mild soreness and swelling are expected during the first few days of recovery.

When will I see my final result?

Initial swelling settles within the first few weeks, but your facial contours continue refining over the following months as healing progresses.

Can Buccal Fat Removal be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Buccal Fat Removal is commonly combined with procedures such as Chin Liposuction, Facial Fat Transfer or Rhinoplasty as part of a comprehensive facial balancing treatment plan.

Am I a suitable candidate?

The best candidates have naturally fuller cheeks despite maintaining a healthy body weight. During your consultation, Dr Yannis will determine whether Buccal Fat Removal is the right option for your facial anatomy and long-term aesthetic goals.

Why choose a facial specialist for Buccal Fat Removal?

Although technically straightforward, Buccal Fat Removal requires careful judgement. Removing too much fat can create an over-hollow appearance that becomes more noticeable with age. An experienced facial surgeon understands exactly how much volume to preserve to achieve natural, timeless results.

Facial Surgery

Buccal Fat Removal

Hospital Stay

Day case

Recovery Time

1-3 months for full refinement

Time Off Work

Several days

Anaesthesia

TIVA Anaesthesia

Exercise

Avoid strenuous exercise during the first week

Price

£6,500

Procedure

What is Buccal Fat Removal?

Expected Effects & Benefits

Your Buccal Fat Removal Journey

Procedure

How does Buccal Fat Removal work?

UNDERSTANDING FACIAL CONTOURING:

WHY PATIENT SELECTION MATTERS:

Procedure

Surgical Techniques & Technology

Your Journey

The 5-Step Process

Consultation

1

Preparation

2

Surgery

3

Recovery

4

Long Term Care

5

Your Journey

Recovery Timeline

1–2 Weeks

2–6 Weeks

6 Weeks–6 Months

6–12 Months

Long-Term Care

Your Journey

Post surgery activity guidelines

Shower

AS NORMAL

Driving

3-5 DAYS

Work

Several days

Exercise

1-2 WEEKS

Suitability & Safety

Am I suitable for Buccal Fat Removal?

Ideal Candidate Profile

Risks & Complications

Your Surgeon

Dr Yannis Alexandrides

Pricing

Overview

Finance Calculator

First Payment

0

Monthly Payment

0

Interest Rate*

0

*Interest rates are subject to status and individual credit score.

Resources

Reviews

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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