Preparation for the procedure is fairly light but should start up to two weeks prior to getting a buccal fat pad excision. "I generally advise my patients not to take ibuprofen or aspirin in any form for two weeks prior to this procedure as they are blood thinners," Dr. Smith said. "Alcohol should be minimized prior to the procedure as well. If done under local anesthesia, a light breakfast is OK on the day of the procedure."
Afterward, you'll experience some swelling, which should only be significant for two to three days. "A buccal lipectomy patient may experience facial swelling following surgery. However, the swelling will dissipate on its own within about two to three weeks," Dr. Douglas said. "After the swelling stops, the cheeks will start to look thinner and more contoured."
You can also expect to follow a liquid diet for a few days. "I also advise patients to brush only their front teeth for one week following the procedure, and to avoid any heavy exertion for two weeks," Dr. Smith said. "However, it is important to be up walking immediately after the procedure."