Bichectomy at the CECAM
Cannes Mougins centre
Surgical removal of the Bichat fat pad (Bichectomy)
This lump is a fatty mass measuring a few centimetres. It is located inside the mouth and is responsible for the contour of the cheek.
Refine the face with buccal fat removal
Bichectomy is a procedure recommended for patients who wish to slim down their face and reduce the roundness of their cheeks. The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia for the patient’s comfort. However, it is possible to perform it under local anaesthesia in certain cases. Bichectomy begins with a 1 cm incision inside the mouth, on the inside of the cheek.
The Bichat fat pad is then removed and the incision closed with absorbable stitches. The ball is temporarily replaced by oedema, which begins to disappear three weeks after the procedure. The final result is achieved three to six months after the operation.
The after-effects of the procedure are generally minor and pain is very slight. Mouthwashes are required three times a day for seven days.
Additional information about the buccal fat removal procedure
Anaesthesia: general, local anaesthesia possible but less comfortable.
Duration of procedure: 1 hour
Hospitalisation: Outpatient
Pain: mild
Recovery time: 3-7 days Post-operative pain: moderate
Main complications: Bruising, swelling, temporary numbness in the cheeks