Are you looking to achieve a slimmer, more contoured face without undergoing surgery? While buccal fat removal is a popular option for facial slimming, there are non-surgical alternatives that can help you achieve similar results. In this article, we explore three non-invasive alternatives to buccal fat removal that are offered at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine: Kybella, dermal fillers, and PDO thread lifts.
1. Kybella
Kybella is an FDA-approved injectable specifically designed to target and dissolve fat cells beneath the chin. While it's primarily known for addressing submental fullness (double chin), Kybella can also be strategically used to reduce excess fat in the buccal area.
How does Kybella work?
The active ingredient in Kybella is synthetic deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the targeted area, Kybella disrupts the fat cell membrane, causing it to burst. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these fat cells, resulting in a slimmer, more contoured appearance.
What happens during the treatment?
Kybella treatments typically involve a series of injections administered by a trained healthcare provider. The number of sessions required varies depending on individual goals and the amount of fat to be treated. While some patients may experience temporary swelling, bruising, or numbness in the treated area, these side effects subside within a few days to a week.
When will the results appear?
You can expect gradual improvements in the treated area over several weeks as the body metabolizes the destroyed fat cells. With optimal treatment, Kybella can provide long-lasting results, helping you achieve a more defined jawline and cheek contour without surgery.
2. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers offer a versatile solution for enhancing facial volume, sculpting contours, and achieving a more youthful appearance. While commonly used to plump lips and smooth wrinkles, dermal fillers can also be strategically injected to sculpt the cheeks and jawline, providing a non-surgical alternative to buccal fat removal.
What are the types of fillers?
Several types of dermal fillers are available, each formulated with specific ingredients to address different concerns. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, are commonly used for facial contouring due to their ability to add volume and definition. Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers, such as Radiesse, stimulate collagen production, providing longer-lasting results.
What happens during the treatment?
During a dermal filler treatment, your provider will strategically inject the filler into targeted areas to sculpt and contour the face. The procedure is relatively quick and typically requires minimal downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately afterward.
When will the results appear?
Dermal fillers can instantly enhance cheek and jawline contours, providing a more sculpted appearance. While results are temporary and may vary depending on the type of filler used, many patients enjoy the benefits for six months to two years before requiring touch-ups.
3. PDO Thread Lifts
PDO (polydioxanone) thread lifts offer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional facelift surgery, providing a subtle lifting and tightening effect to sagging skin. In addition to addressing facial aging, PDO thread lifts can also be used to sculpt and contour the cheeks and jawline, making them an effective alternative to buccal fat removal.
How does PDO thread lift work?
During a PDO thread lift, dissolvable threads made of PDO material are strategically inserted beneath the skin to lift and support sagging tissues. These threads stimulate collagen production, promoting natural tissue regeneration and providing long-lasting results.
What happens during the treatment?
PDO thread lift procedures are typically performed in the office under local anesthesia. Your provider will carefully insert the threads into the targeted areas using a thin needle or cannula, gently lifting and tightening the skin. The entire procedure can usually be completed in about an hour, with minimal downtime afterward.
When will the results appear?
While some immediate lifting effects may be visible, the full results of a PDO thread lift become more apparent as collagen production is stimulated over several weeks. Patients can enjoy firmer, more contoured cheeks and jawline without surgery. The results typically last up to 18 months, making PDO thread lifts a popular choice for non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
Selecting the appropriate non-surgical alternative to buccal fat removal
Selecting the most suitable non-surgical alternative to buccal fat removal involves a careful assessment of individual anatomy, goals, and preferences. During your initial consultation, several factors are considered to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
The provider will evaluate your facial anatomy, including the distribution of fat, skin laxity, and underlying bone structure. This helps determine which areas would benefit most from treatment and which technique would yield the most natural-looking results. Additionally, your provider will discuss your aesthetic goals and expectations to tailor a treatment plan that aligns with your desired outcome while considering factors such as cost, downtime, and longevity of results.
If you're considering enhancing your facial contours without undergoing surgery, non-surgical alternatives to buccal fat removal offer effective options worth exploring. From injectable treatments like Kybella and dermal fillers to minimally invasive procedures like PDO thread lifts, you have several options to achieve your aesthetic goals with minimal downtime and excellent results. Please schedule a consultation with our aesthetic providers to determine the best approach for your unique needs and desired outcome.
