Karter Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery
249 Main St
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Phone: (860) 775-5595
Hours:
Monday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Wednesday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Thursday: 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Well-defined cheekbones and a sculpted jawline enhance
facial harmony and create a more refined appearance.
Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Nicholas Karter performs buccal fat removal in Wethersfield, Connecticut, to help you reduce excess cheek volume for a slimmer, more contoured look.
Buccal fat removal, or cheek reduction surgery, is a precise cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat from the buccal fat pads of the cheeks. These internal fat pads sit below the cheekbones and in front of the masseter muscles, contributing to facial fullness or “chipmunk cheeks.” While the buccal fat pads facilitate smooth muscle movement during chewing, excess fat in this area does not serve a functional purpose.
By carefully excising this fat, buccal fat removal enhances the definition of the upper cheeks and cheekbones while creating a more sculpted transition into the jawline. The result is a naturally contoured, refined facial appearance—similar to the effect of expertly applied cheek bronzer but achieved surgically for long-lasting results.
Dr. Karter is fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon known for his exceptional results and patient-first philosophy. Learn what sets him apart below:
From your first conversation with our team to your one-on-one time with Dr. Karter, we provide a concierge-level experience tailored to your needs.
Start with a free one-on-one call with Erin, our patient care coordinator. She’ll listen to your concerns, discuss treatment options, and go over important details like technique, recovery, and cost considerations. If we feel like the right fit for you, she will schedule your in-person consultation with Dr. Karter.
During your visit, Dr. Karter will examine your facial anatomy and explore your surgical options in-depth. He will walk you through the details of a deep plane facelift, discuss what to expect after surgery, and create a customized plan based on your goals.
When you are ready to move forward, we will coordinate every detail with the surgical center and anesthesia team. We recommend bringing your calendar to your appointment so you can choose your ideal date. A fully refundable 20% deposit is all that is needed to secure your surgery.
We make sure that you are 100% prepared for your procedure. You will receive a comprehensive recovery kit with everything you need for postoperative care, have presurgical photos taken, and review all necessary consent forms and instructions.
We see patients several times throughout their recovery to ensure optimal healing and results. As part of our commitment to exceptional postsurgical care, we also provide laser resurfacing treatments to refine incision lines and support smoother scar healing.
Dr. Karter is personally invested in your experience and results. As part of his commitment to your comfort and well-being, he provides you with his personal cell phone number so you always have a direct line to your surgeon when you need it.
While every patient varies, Dr. Karter’s recommended recovery protocol for buccal fat removal is typically very straightforward:
Keep in mind that while swelling is common, it is similar to what occurs after wisdom teeth removal and typically subsides within a week. Although initial results become noticeable as swelling decreases, full definition and contour improvements emerge within 6 to 8 weeks.
Many patients choose to refine their appearance further by combining buccal fat removal with these popular procedures:
The cost of buccal fat removal in Connecticut varies depending on the extent of your procedure. Because your surgery costs are tailored to your unique concerns, we’ll provide an initial quote during your free phone consultation once we have a better idea of your needs. We also accept financing through CareCredit® and can help you plan for your investment in long-lasting facial rejuvenation.
When performed by an experienced facial plastic surgeon, buccal fat removal refines your appearance instead of making you look older. Establishing the appropriate volume and removing the optimal amount of buccal fat during your procedure is essential to ensure you experience no long-term impact as you age.
Overall, the procedure is comfortable. Most patients describe the “prick” of the numbing medicine as the most painful part—similar to a dental procedure. Afterward, most patients only have mild soreness for a few days.
The incisions for a buccal fat excision are hidden within the mouth, so no external or visible scars exist.
Yes, buccal fat removal is permanent, and your results should persist even if you gain weight because the removed fat won’t grow back. However, maintaining a healthy weight is still recommended, as weight gain can add fullness to your facial features.
If you’re ready to explore your facial contouring options with a top facial plastic surgeon in Connecticut, we invite you to request a consultation online or call Karter Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery at (860) 775-5595 to get started today.
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