BUCCAL FAT REMOVAL SURGERY
BICHECTOMY
Bichectomy — the surgical removal of buccal fat pads — is a targeted procedure that reduces fullness in the mid-cheek area, creating a more defined, contoured facial appearance. For patients with naturally full, round cheeks that remain unchanged despite low body weight, bichectomy offers a permanent solution by removing the deep fat compartments responsible for this fullness. The result is a subtly more sculpted mid-face with more visible cheekbone definition. Turkey has seen significant demand for this procedure, performed by surgeons who prioritise precision and age-appropriate results.
Bichectomy in Turkey is performed by plastic surgeons experienced in facial contouring who approach this procedure with careful attention to long-term facial harmony. Istanbul's clinics offer bichectomy as a standalone procedure or in combination with other facial sculpting treatments, with a rapid recovery that suits international patients seeking effective facial contouring during a short visit.
WHAT IS BICHECTOMY? Bichectomy is a surgical procedure in which the buccal fat pads — encapsulated fat deposits located in the mid-cheek, deep to the cheek muscles — are partially removed through small incisions inside the mouth. No external incisions are made, leaving no visible scars. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation and takes approximately 30–45 minutes. The buccal fat pads naturally reduce in size with age, so careful patient selection is essential: the procedure is most appropriate for younger patients with genuinely full cheeks, and is not recommended for patients who already have a naturally thin or narrow face, as results may appear gaunt with further age-related volume loss.
AM I THE RIGHT CANDIDATE?
• You have a naturally full, round mid-face that persists regardless of your body weight or fitness level.
• You are between the ages of 18 and 35 — younger patients with good facial volume are the ideal candidates.
• You are not excessively thin or narrow-faced; sufficient overall facial volume is necessary to avoid an overly gaunt appearance as the face ages.
• You have realistic expectations for subtle mid-face sculpting rather than a dramatic transformation.
BENEFITS OF BICHECTOMY
• Defined mid-face contour: Reduces cheek fullness and improves the visibility of cheekbone structure.
• Permanent result: Removed fat cells do not regenerate.
• No visible scarring: All incisions are intraoral — completely concealed within the mouth.
• Short recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 5–7 days.
HOW DO WE PROCEED?
Step 1 — Online Consultation: Share frontal and three-quarter photos. Our surgeon assesses overall facial volume and whether bichectomy is appropriate for your anatomy and age.
Step 2 — Treatment Plan & Quote: A personalised plan and transparent pricing are provided.
Step 3 — Travel Arrangements: Hotel and transfer arranged by our coordinator.
Step 4 — Pre-operative Assessment: Face-to-face consultation and any required pre-operative tests on arrival.
Step 5 — Procedure & Recovery: Day case procedure under local anaesthesia.
Step 6 — Follow-up & Aftercare: Post-operative check before departure; remote support throughout recovery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes Turkey a preferred destination for bichectomy?
Turkey's surgeons are experienced in facial contouring procedures and approach bichectomy with the careful patient selection and conservative technique that this procedure requires.Am I too old for bichectomy?
Bichectomy is most appropriate for patients under approximately 35. The buccal fat pads naturally diminish with age, and removing them in older patients risks an excessively hollow or gaunt mid-face over time. Your surgeon will advise honestly on candidacy.Will there be visible scars?
No. All incisions are made inside the mouth and are completely invisible externally.How long does it take to see results?
Initial improvement is visible within 2–3 weeks once swelling resolves. Final results are apparent at 3–6 months.Is it painful?
Discomfort is minimal. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, and post-operative soreness is mild and short-lived.Will I be able to eat normally?
A soft diet is recommended for the first 1–2 weeks while intraoral incisions heal. Normal eating resumes gradually.Can bichectomy be reversed?
No — fat removal is permanent. This is why thorough pre-operative assessment and realistic expectation-setting are essential.Can bichectomy be combined with other procedures?
Yes. It is frequently combined with chin liposuction, chin implant, or rhinoplasty as part of a comprehensive facial sculpting plan.How do I prepare?
Good oral hygiene is important before intraoral surgery. Avoid blood-thinning medications. Full preparation instructions are provided after consultation.How do I get started?
Share frontal and three-quarter photos via the form below or on WhatsApp. Our surgeon will assess your facial anatomy and respond within 24–48 hours.
DOCTOR'S NOTE Bichectomy is a procedure I approach with particular caution — not because it is technically complex, but because patient selection is everything. The difference between a beautiful, long-lasting result and one that looks inappropriate in ten years comes entirely down to choosing the right patients. I decline bichectomy for patients whose overall facial volume is already modest, who are older, or whose facial proportions suggest they will not benefit. For the right candidate — a young patient with genuinely full cheeks and good overall facial volume — the result can be a subtle but meaningful improvement in mid-face definition. I am happy to give you my honest assessment.