Lock Upp’s Akanksha Chaudhary considered cheek fat surgery: Does everyone really need it?

Miss Universe hopeful Akanksha Chaudhary has revealed she contemplated undergoing cheek fat removal surgery, spending anywhere from ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 on injections to reduce her fuller cheeks. However, she later changed her mind, citing concerns about permanently altering her facial structure. This has sparked a discussion about whether all individuals seeking a more sculpted face necessarily require buccal fat removal.

Dr Anup Dhir, a Delhi-based cosmetic surgeon, cautions that not everyone with a round or fuller face is a candidate for the procedure. Buccal fat removal, which involves the removal of a naturally occurring pocket of fat deep within the cheeks, is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It should only be considered for those with cheek fullness caused by factors like genetics, bone structure, or fat distribution.

Removing buccal fat may not yield noticeable improvements if facial fullness is due to other factors. Moreover, as individuals age, facial volume naturally decreases, and premature fat removal may lead to a prematurely aged appearance. Buccal fat removal carries risks such as facial nerve damage, asymmetric results, salivary duct injuries, and a hollowed-out look over time.

These complications highlight the importance of carefully considering the potential long-term effects before undergoing the surgery. Additionally, buccal fat removal does not reshape the jawbone or remove fat from every part of the lower face, so it may not necessarily create a sharper jawline. Before deciding on the procedure, patients should consult with a cosmetic surgeon to determine if buccal fat removal is actually responsible for their cheek fullness and whether removing it would produce a meaningful difference.

They should also discuss the amount of fat to be removed, how their face may change with age, and whether the surgery could result in an excessively hollow appearance. Patients should be aware of potential nerve and salivary duct complications and explore alternative approaches to achieve facial balance. Ultimately, the decision to undergo buccal fat removal should be carefully deliberated, taking into account the individual's long-term satisfaction and the potential implications of the procedure on their aging face.