What is bichectomy and what are its effects?
More and more people are paying attention to their facial proportions. In the age of social media, photos, and videos, appearance has become an extremely important element of self-esteem. Some experience discomfort due to overly full cheeks, which give the face a heavier and less defined look. In such cases, bichectomy may be the solution – a procedure involving the removal of the so-called Bichat's fat pads. Thanks to it, it is possible to subtly slim the face, improve the oval, and enhance the features, which gives a natural rejuvenating effect.
Bichectomy
Bichectomy is a minimally invasive plastic surgery procedure aimed at removing part of the fat pads located in the cheeks. Bichat's fat pads play an important role in children – they facilitate sucking and give the face a characteristically full appearance. In adulthood, they lose their function, and in some people, they become the cause of an overly "round" face. The procedure is performed under local or short-term intravenous anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision inside the oral cavity, through which they remove the appropriate amount of fat tissue. The entire procedure lasts approximately 40–60 minutes and does not require hospitalization.
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Bichectomy effects
The effects of bichectomy are usually visible after a few weeks, once swelling and bruising subside. The face becomes slimmer, and the cheekbones more prominent.
Typical results:
- Round face – achieving clearer contours, a "slimming" effect on the face.
- Square face – subtle softening of features, better proportions.
- Oval face – a more defined oval and natural emphasis on the cheeks.
- Triangular face – balancing the proportions between the upper and lower parts of the face.
The effects are permanent – once removed, Bichat's fat pads do not grow back. However, it is worth remembering that the final appearance depends on the individual facial structure.
🔗 Check bichectomy photos – before and after gallery
Bichectomy before and after
Comparing "before and after" effects is the best way to assess the procedure's effectiveness. In clinic galleries, you can see how bichectomy changes features – the face becomes slimmer, gains a distinct contour, and the gaze appears lighter.
Course of recovery
The healing process after bichectomy is relatively quick and not very bothersome.
- 1–3 days – swelling appears, slight bruising may occur.
- 1 week – return to work and daily activities.
- 2–3 weeks – residual swelling subsides.
- 1–3 months – full effects of the procedure.
The patient should follow a soft diet for several days and maintain oral hygiene to avoid infection. Avoiding intense physical exertion and alcohol consumption is recommended.
Is bichectomy safe?
Like any surgical procedure, bichectomy also carries certain risks. Asymmetry, excessive tissue removal, or damage to adjacent structures, such as facial nerves, may occur. That is why choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is so important. In reputable clinics, complications are rare, and the procedure is considered a safe and effective method for facial contouring.
🔗 See more: Dominik Boligłowa – plastic surgeon
FAQ – frequently asked questions
Does bichectomy hurt?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so no pain occurs during it. After the procedure, the patient may feel discomfort and mild pain, which can be alleviated with painkillers.
Can everyone undergo bichectomy?
No – the procedure is not recommended for people with a naturally thin face, as it may result in an excessively emaciated look.
How much does bichectomy cost?
The price depends on the clinic and the doctor's experience. It's worth remembering that the cheapest offer doesn't always mean the best choice.
When will I see the final effect?
Initial results are visible after 2–3 weeks, with the final effect appearing after several months when the tissues have fully healed.
Bichectomy is an effective and safe way to slim the face and enhance features. The procedure is particularly recommended for people who struggle with overly full cheeks and dream of a more defined facial oval. The effects are permanent and natural, and the recovery time is relatively short. The key to satisfactory results is choosing an experienced plastic surgeon who will individually tailor the scope of the procedure to the patient's needs. If you are considering this procedure, it is worth consulting a specialist and viewing "before and after" photos to better assess the possible results.
🔗 Learn more: Dominik Boligłowa – procedures
