Buccal fat is a normal and important structure in the face. The buccal fat pad has many parts, which extend like fingers into key regions of the face, providing shape, support, and a gliding surface.

In some cases, the buccal fat pad can become excessive and produce too much fullness in the cheek region. Removing part of the fat pad, through a carefully planned surgery, can reduce this appearance. When performed as an isolated procedure, it commonly uses an incision inside the mouth to conceal the scar. When performed in conjunction with face lift surgery, it can also be removed through the face lift incision.