Buccal fat extraction, also known as cheek reduction surgery, is quickly becoming a popular option for those who wish to contour the look of their face. The treatment can help lessen the size of chubby cheeks that have carried over from childhood.
One of the first questions many have about the procedure is how it will affect their eating habits. In this article, we’re taking a look at what and when you can eat after your buccal fat extraction surgery.
Incisions Can Make Eating Difficult for a Short Period
During your buccal fat extraction surgery, the surgeon will make an incision that’s about four to eight centimeters in length. The incision is generally located at the back of your mouth, above your upper molar. The surgeon will then cut through the buccinator muscle in the cheek, press down on the outside of the cheek, and push the buccal fat through the incision area.
Because of the sensitive area of the incision, this can cause some patients issues with eating for a short time after their treatment. Fortunately, there is expert guidance to help patients through the post-operative period.
Phase One: a Clear Liquid Diet is Required
During the initial phase after the surgery has been completed, surgeons often recommend a clear liquid diet for three days. This will help you remain hydrated as you recover, but will not place undue stress upon their affected area. Liquids allowed during this stage of the recovery process include water, broth and plain gelatin.
Phase Two: Soft Foods
Once you feel well enough, you should try to eat soft foods. It is important that you build up strength and ensure effective recovery. Soft foods such as soup, overcooked pasta, eggs and pudding are ideal. But just for the second phase of the recovery, as they don’t require you to use the impacted area directly by chewing. Its advantage is that they allow you to improve your strength over time.
Phase Three: Full Diet
By day 10 of the post-procedure process, you should be ready to begin going back to your normal eating habits. However, some patients might not be ready at this stage, due to pain or medication-related nausea. It’s important to speak with your surgeon directly if you feel unwell and unable to eat properly at the day 10 mark.
The buccal fat extraction treatment has proven effective in thousands of successful cases across Canada. Before committing to the process, speak with one of our specialists directly and discover how to create an effective and personalized recovery routine.
May 16th 2015