Why Choose Istanbul for Buccal Fat Removal?
Istanbul has become a primary hub for facial aesthetic surgery, combining elite medical expertise with accessible pricing.
Cost Comparison: US/UK vs. Turkey
In the US and UK, buccal fat removal typically ranges from $4,000 to $7,000 (£3,000 to £5,500), often excluding facility fees and consultations. In Istanbul, bichectomy procedures start from €1,500.
This price reflects local economic factors and currency exchange rates, rather than a compromise in quality. Most clinics cater specifically to international patients, offering comprehensive treatment plans that cover the procedure, local anesthesia, and all postoperative follow-ups.
Specialized Facial Contouring Expertise
Because Turkish surgeons frequently perform facial contouring procedures for a diverse, global patient base, they possess extensive experience in tailoring the exact amount of fat removal to different ethnic facial structures and aesthetic goals.
Understanding Buccal Fat Removal
Inside the lower cheek lies a deep layer of fat called the buccal fat pad. The size of this pad is largely dictated by genetics.
During a bichectomy, a carefully calculated portion of this fat pad is removed. The goal is never to extract the maximum amount of fat—which can lead to a hollowed appearance as you age—but rather to precisely reduce lower cheek fullness to highlight your natural cheekbones and jawline.
Am I a Good Candidate?
You may be an ideal candidate for this procedure if:
- You have noticeable lower cheek fullness ("chubby cheeks") that does not respond to weight loss.
- You desire a more defined, V-shaped facial contour.
- You have good skin elasticity and realistic expectations.
- You are not seeking to correct fullness caused by standard subcutaneous fat or bone structure.
The Procedure: What to Expect in the Clinic
Bichectomy is highly efficient and typically leaves no visible scarring.
Anesthesia: The procedure is safely performed under local anesthesia. You remain awake and comfortable, with the treatment area completely numbed. (General anesthesia is available if combined with other procedures).
The Incision: A small incision (about 1-2 cm) is made exclusively inside the mouth, near the upper molars.
The Extraction: The surgeon locates the buccal fat pad—navigating safely around the facial nerve and parotid duct—and removes the predetermined volume of tissue.
Closure: The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures.
Travel & Treatment Itinerary for International Patients
Organizing a surgical trip from the US or UK is straightforward. Most patients require only a short stay in Istanbul. You can arrange an online video consultation prior to booking your flights to confirm your suitability.
The 3-Day Istanbul Schedule
Day 1: Arrival & Consultation. Face-to-face clinical assessment, discussion of your aesthetic goals, and final treatment planning.
Day 2: The Procedure. The bichectomy is performed. The surgery itself takes under an hour, and you can return to your hotel shortly after.
Day 3: Postoperative Check & Departure. A final clinic visit to evaluate the early healing stage. You are then cleared to fly home.
Recovery & Flying Home
Because the incision is intraoral (inside the mouth), recovery is distinct from standard facial surgeries.
The Flight Home: Flying the day after surgery is generally safe, though changes in cabin pressure might cause mild discomfort. Stick to a soft or liquid diet on the plane (soups, smoothies, yogurt) and avoid hot beverages.
Managing Swelling: Expect swelling and mild tenderness for the first 3 to 5 days. Ironically, your cheeks will look fuller immediately after surgery due to this swelling.
Oral Hygiene: You will be prescribed a specialized mouthwash. Keeping the mouth clean after meals is critical to prevent infection.
Seeing Results: As swelling subsides over the first 3 to 6 weeks, your newly contoured cheekbones and jawline will begin to emerge. Final, permanent results are typically visible after 3 to 4 months.
Bichectomy results in Istanbul.
Before and after photographs and video can help you discuss facial proportions, but they do not replace an individual examination or guarantee a specific outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does bichectomy leave a visible scar?
No. Because the incisions are made entirely inside the mouth, there is zero external scarring on the face.
Is buccal fat removal permanent?
Yes. The specific fat cells removed from the buccal pad do not regenerate. However, major weight fluctuations or the natural aging process will still affect your overall facial volume over time.
Is the surgery painful?
The procedure itself is painless due to local anesthesia. Postoperative discomfort is generally mild and easily managed with standard over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief.
Will removing buccal fat make me look too old later in life?
This is why choosing an experienced surgeon is vital. An expert removes only a precise amount of fat to contour the cheek, leaving enough supportive tissue to prevent a "hollowed out" or prematurely aged look in the future.
Scientific References
Stuzin JM, et al. The anatomy and clinical applications of the buccal fat pad. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 1990.
Zhang HM, et al. Anatomical structure of the buccal fat pad and its clinical adaptations. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2002.
Buccal fat pad excision for cheek refinement: A systematic review. Medicina Oral Patología Oral y Cirugía Bucal. 2021.