Bichectomy in Turkey
Bichectomy (also called buccal fat pad removal) is a surgical procedure that reduces the volume of the buccal fat pads in the cheeks, creating a slimmer, more sculpted facial contour. The procedure enhances cheekbone definition and produces the angular, "reverse triangle" face shape that has become one of the most requested aesthetic goals globally.
The buccal fat pads are distinct, encapsulated fat deposits located in the lower cheeks, separate from subcutaneous fat. Their size is largely genetic and does not significantly decrease with weight loss or exercise, which is why patients with otherwise lean faces can still have a round or "chubby" cheek appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Bichectomy in Turkey
Will bichectomy make my face look gaunt as I age?
This is the most important consideration. Facial fat naturally diminishes with age, so removing too much buccal fat in a young patient can lead to an overly hollow appearance later. Dr. Delioğlu takes a conservative approach — removing enough fat to create definition while preserving adequate volume for long-term facial balance.
Are there visible scars?
No. All incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no external scars.
How long until I see the final result?
The full effect of bichectomy becomes visible at 2–3 months once all internal swelling has resolved. Some patients notice improvement as early as 2–3 weeks.
Can bichectomy be combined with other procedures?
Yes. It is commonly paired with rhinoplasty, jawline filler, or chin augmentation for a comprehensive facial contouring result.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Bichectomy is best suited for patients who have genetically prominent buccal fat pads creating a round or full lower-cheek appearance, are at or near their ideal body weight (bichectomy is not a weight loss procedure), want enhanced cheekbone definition and a more angular facial contour, and understand that facial fat naturally diminishes with age, patients over 40 should be assessed carefully to avoid an overly gaunt appearance in later years.
The procedure is not recommended for patients with very thin faces, significant recent weight fluctuation, or those expecting dramatic transformation, bichectomy produces a subtle to moderate refinement, not a radical change.
Cost in Turkey
| Procedure | UK Cost | Turkey Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bichectomy | £2,000–£3,500 | £800–£1,500 |
Bichectomy is often combined with other facial procedures (rhinoplasty, jawline filler, chin augmentation) for comprehensive facial contouring at a combined price.
The Procedure
Bichectomy is a short procedure (30–45 minutes) performed under local anaesthesia. Small incisions are made inside the mouth (no external scars), the buccal fat pads are carefully isolated and partially removed, and the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. The amount of fat removed is tailored to each patient's anatomy and goals, conservative removal is critical to avoid an overly hollowed appearance.
Recovery
Swelling peaks at 2–3 days and largely resolves within 1–2 weeks. A soft diet is recommended for the first 3–5 days. Oral hygiene with antiseptic rinses is essential as incisions are inside the mouth. Social recovery takes 7–10 days. The final contour emerges at 2–3 months as all swelling settles. International patients can plan a 5–7 day stay.
Your Surgeon
Op. Dr. Kemal Caner Delioğlu performs bichectomy as part of his facial contouring practice. His ENT and head & neck surgical training provides detailed knowledge of the buccal space anatomy, including the parotid duct and facial nerve branches that must be preserved during fat pad removal.
Learn more about Bichectomy in Turkey
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