Buccal Fat Removal and Jawline Contouring: What You Need to Know

Does Buccal Fat Removal Improve Jawline Definition?

Some respected surgeons, including Dr. Rod J. Rohrich, have published research suggesting that buccal fat removal can contribute to jawline contouring. However, while I deeply respect their work, I respectfully disagree with this idea in most cases.

The buccal fat pad is a naturally occurring pocket of fat located in the lower third of the face, just above the jawline. While removing it can create a slimmer midface, it does not directly impact the jawline itself. Jawline definition is largely influenced by:

• Skin and soft tissue laxity
• Bone structure
• Muscle tone
• Fat distribution in other areas of the lower face

What Actually Defines the Jawline?

If your goal is to enhance your jawline, more effective treatments include:

• Facelift: A lower facelift can tighten skin and lift sagging tissue, improving jawline definition.
• Facial Liposuction: Removing excess fat along the jawline can enhance contour.
• Sculptra or Fillers: Injectables can restore volume where needed and create a sharper jawline.
• FaceTite: Radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis tightens skin and improves contour.
• Jawline Implants: Custom or off-the-shelf silicone, PEEK, or Medpor implants can create long-lasting structural enhancement.

My Personal Experience with Buccal Fat Removal

I had my buccal fat pads removed about ten months ago, and while I do notice a change, the improvement is mostly in the submalar region—above my jawline and the upper border of my mandible. This mirrors the experience of many of my patients. Buccal fat removal may create a slimmer midface, but it does not significantly enhance the jawline.

Understanding Facial Proportions: The Tic-Tac-Toe Grid

To visualize facial anatomy, I often use a tic-tac-toe grid concept. If you divide your face into vertical thirds (upper, middle, and lower) and horizontal layers (front, middle, back), the buccal fat pad sits in the middle third of the lower face, above the jawline. It does not contribute significant weight to the jowls, so removing it will not necessarily improve jawline contour.

In some patients, I do see subtle improvements in jawline definition, but not enough to consider buccal fat removal a jawline contouring procedure.

Should You Get Buccal Fat Removal for Jawline Definition?

If your primary goal is a more defined jawline, buccal fat removal alone will likely not achieve it. Instead, consider treatments tailored to bone structure, skin tightening, and volume adjustments for optimal results.

If you’re thinking about buccal fat removal for jawline contouring, think again. Have questions or if you're interested in learning more about facial contouring procedures, be sure to subscribe to our updates!