What to do when you go home after Buccal Fat Removal
There is minimal pain after this procedure. Take the prescribed pain medication as needed.
Do not take vitamin E, aspirin, or aspirin like products 3 weeks before and one week after surgery.
Will I have bruising and swelling?
Since the incision is inside the mouth, bruising is also minimal but swelling of the cheeks may take a few days to resolve. (Try to elevate the head of the bed with at least two pillows for the first few days following the procedure to help minimise any facial swelling.)
Apply ice packs to the cheeks (10 min on, 10 min off) to reduce swelling for the first 24 hours. If swelling persists apply ice packs for an additional 24 hours.
What about infection?
After buccal fat removal, infections are extremely rare, but watch for signs of infection up to 14 days after the procedure.
Signs of infection include:
- Persistent, increasing, or radiating pain.
- Unusual bleeding.
- Significant redness and swelling.
- Fever.
- Blister-like pooling of fluids or pus drainage.
When can I be up and about again?
Patients are usually able to return to work and social activities after one or two days. Do not participate in contact sports for at least 6-8 weeks.
What about diet?
Diet must be limited to soft foods for 48 hours following surgery and limited chewing for the first 2 weeks. Avoid salty foods to keep swelling down.
Rinse mouth with water after eating to clean any food particles from the incision sites.
Can I wash my face?
The face may be washed the day following the procedure.
Can I wear make-up?
Make-up may be applied one day following the procedure.
When can I expect to make a full recovery?
Most people are fully recovered within 3 weeks. However this will all go on your own individual recovery rate.
What if something goes wrong?
Once you're home, contact your surgeon immediately if you:
- Experience shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heart beats.
- Notice any signs of infection.
- Experience bleeding.
- Experience a sudden increase in pain.
Above all, get plenty of rest and allow your body to spend its energy on healing.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about buccal fat removal, or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.
