Bichectomy Surgery in Turkey

Bichectomy is the medical term for fat removal from the cheeks to obtain sharper facial lines. Bichectomy is performed under general anesthesia.

Bichectomy Pricing in Turkey

The cost of a bichectomy (buccal fat removal) in Turkey is approximately €3,000. This price is not limited to the surgical procedure itself; it encompasses a comprehensive range of ancillary services included in the treatment package.

Payment Options

We accept payments via credit and debit cards. Installment plans are available through our contracted partner banks. Additionally, payments may be made in cash.

What Is Included in the Treatment Package?

  • Preoperative consultation and a detailed clinical examination conducted by Dr. Ali Mezdeği.
  • All-inclusive surgery within our hospital facility, covering all surgical and operating room expenses.
  • Discharge on the same day (outpatient) or, when clinically indicated, an overnight hospital stay.
  • 24/7 clinical support directly from your surgeon during the critical first 48 hours post-operation.
  • A dedicated, personal patient coordinator to assist you throughout the process.
  • Complimentary postoperative follow-up appointments.
  • Wound care (dressing) or suture removal, if required.

Bichectomy (Buccal Fat Removal) Operation Summary

Feature Details
Location Hospital (Istanbul)
Anesthesia Type General Anesthesia
Surgery Duration 45 minutes
Required Stay in Turkey 2 days
Surgical Scarring None (Scarless)
Longevity Permanent (Lifetime)
First Shower Same day
Full Recovery 1 month
Dietary Recommendation Protein-rich during the recovery phase
Hospital Stay Same-day discharge
Return to Work Day 2 post-op
Pain/Discomfort Level Minimal to none
Side Effects Mild swelling for 5–6 days
Complications None
Physical Activity/Cardio Permitted (No restrictions)
Initial Check-up Day 2 post-op
Suture Removal Not required (Dissolvable)
Eating/Drinking Immediate return to normal diet

What is Bichectomy?

In its simplest terms, a bichectomy is a cheek contouring or thinning procedure. It involves the surgical removal of the buccal fat pad (fatty tissue within the cheek) to create a more defined, hollowed aesthetic. A prominent example of this look is seen in Angelina Jolie.

The procedure is also medically referred to as buccal fat extraction, buccal fat excision, or buccal fat removal. The process of removing this intra-cheek fat typically takes approximately 30 minutes.

Ideal Candidates

Bichectomy is an excellent option for:

  • Patients with excess cheek fat looking to reduce fullness.
  • Those undergoing facial slimming surgery to achieve a more V-shaped profile.
  • Individuals wishing to transition from rounded features to sharper, more defined facial contours.
  • Patients aged 18 and older who have reached full facial maturity.
  • Those seeking to enhance their personal image and self-confidence.
  • Individuals pursuing both cosmetic and functional facial refinements.
  • Patients wanting to eliminate “chipmunk cheeks” in favor of a refined, sculpted appearance.

Bichectomy Surgery in Turkey

Contraindications: Who Is Not a Suitable Candidate?

A bichectomy may not be recommended for individuals in the following categories:

  • Patients with naturally thin faces: Removing fat from an already slender face may lead to an aged or gaunt appearance.
  • Narrow facial structures: If the face is already narrow, the procedure may disrupt facial harmony.
  • Patients with Progressive Hemifacial Atrophy (Parry-Romberg Syndrome): This condition affects the skin and soft tissues, making fat removal inadvisable.
  • Patients under the age of 18: The face continues to lose baby fat naturally until early adulthood.
  • Patients over the age of 45: As skin elasticity decreases and natural fat loss occurs with age, buccal fat removal may not be suitable and could emphasize sagging.

Benefits of Bichectomy Surgery

Bichectomy is the surgical removal of the buccal fat pads located within the cheek. The primary clinical and aesthetic benefits include:

  • Defined Facial Contours: The removal of fat pads highlights the cheekbones and jawline, creating a sharper, more chiseled look.
  • Slender Facial Appearance: Provides a leaner and more refined facial profile for those with rounder features.
  • Aesthetic Enhancement: Helps individuals achieve their desired facial proportions and aesthetic goals.
  • Boost in Confidence: Achieving a more attractive and balanced facial profile often leads to increased self-esteem and personal confidence.
  • Permanent Results: Since the excised fat pads do not regenerate, the results of the procedure are generally permanent.
  • Rapid Recovery: Bichectomy typically involves a short downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily routines and activities quickly.

Benefits of Bichectomy Surgery

Preoperative Preparation for Bichectomy

To ensure a successful procedure and optimal recovery, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Tobacco Cessation: Discontinue smoking prior to surgery, as it delays wound healing and significantly increases the risk of complications.
  • Consultation: Address all clinical questions and concerns with Op. Dr. Ali Mezdeği during your preoperative briefing.
  • Medication Restrictions: Avoid blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can increase the risk of hemorrhage.
  • Fasting Requirement: Do not consume any food or liquids for at least 8 hours prior to the operation.
  • Attire: Please bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the hospital.
  • Hygiene & Cosmetics: Do not apply lotions, perfumes, or makeup on the day of surgery.
  • Oral Hygiene: If a specific medicated mouthwash has been prescribed by Dr. Ali Mezdeği, ensure it is used as directed before the procedure.
  • Piercings: Remove all facial and body piercings prior to entering the operating suite.

The Bichectomy Procedure

Facial slimming surgeries are performed in a sterile hospital environment. The procedure typically concludes within 30 minutes.

Surgical Technique and Results

The surgery involves the strategic removal of buccal fat pads. Postoperative swelling and minor bruising generally subside within 3 to 7 days. However, the final contoured appearance of the face typically settles within 2 to 4 months.

For “Before & After” galleries, you may contact our clinical assistants via WhatsApp for detailed visual information.

Clinical Overview

Bichectomy, also known as buccal fat reduction or cheek sculpting, is designed to provide a more slender facial profile. It is a highly effective, permanent solution for eliminating “full” cheeks. The procedure can be performed as a standalone surgery or combined with other facial rejuvenations such as facelifts, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), or rhinoplasty.

Steps of the Operation

  1. Incision: A small intraoral incision (2–4 cm) is made between the inner cheek and the gum, near the second upper molar.
  2. Extraction: Gentle external pressure is applied to the cheek to guide the buccal fat through the incision. Depending on the patient’s facial structure, either the entire fat pad or a specific portion is excised.
  3. Closure: The incision is meticulously closed using self-dissolving (absorbable) sutures, eliminating the need for later suture removal.

Understanding Buccal Fat (What is Cheek Fat?)

The buccal fat pad is a naturally occurring adipose tissue mass located beneath the cheekbones in every individual. Its physiological function is to facilitate the smooth movement of the muscles responsible for mastication (chewing).

The volume of this fat layer varies genetically from person to person. A prominent buccal fat pad can create a rounded or “baby-faced” appearance. Through advanced surgical techniques, it is possible to achieve a more contoured mid-face and enhanced cheek definition.

Post-Operative Dietary Guidelines

Following the procedure, there will be two small intraoral incisions. To protect the integrity of the sutures and ensure a comfortable recovery, we recommend a soft food diet for approximately one week.

  • Recommended Foods: Soft textures such as mashed potatoes are ideal to minimize irritation.
  • Aesthetic Note: Since the incisions are made entirely inside the mouth, there is no visible external scarring.

Risks and Considerations (Potential Disadvantages)

It is important to understand that a bichectomy can potentially accelerate the perceived aging process. As we age, the face naturally loses subcutaneous fat and collagen; removing the buccal fat pad may exacerbate this hollowed look over time. In such instances, dermal fillers may be required later in life to restore volume. A thorough consultation with your surgeon is mandatory before proceeding.

While rare, the following risks and complications are statistically possible:

  • Functional Impairment: Potential issues with speech or chewing due to the fat pad’s role in muscle lubrication.
  • Neurological Risks: Sensory loss or damage to the facial nerves.
  • Systemic Risks: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
  • Aesthetic Risks: Facial asymmetry or otherwise unsatisfactory cosmetic results.

Expected Results of Bichectomy

  • A more contoured and defined lower facial structure.
  • Enhanced prominence of the cheekbones.
  • When combined with jawline contouring, a transformative shift in facial harmony.
  • Permanent removal of stubborn cheek fat that does not respond to traditional weight loss.

Risks of “Hollywood Cheek” Surgery

As with any aesthetic procedure, bichectomy carries standard surgical risks, including those associated with general anesthesia. Your clinical team will evaluate your medical history, chronic conditions, and allergies. Specific surgical risks include:

  • Hemorrhage (Bleeding)
  • Infection
  • Seroma or Hematoma (Fluid or blood collection)
  • Injury to the salivary glands

Recommendations for Choosing a Bichectomy Surgeon

Bichectomy procedures must be performed by board-certified Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons. Before making a decision, we recommend conducting thorough research based on the following criteria:

  • Specialization: Ensure that your search is limited to plastic surgeons, as they are the only qualified specialists for this procedure.
  • Surgical Expertise: Investigate the surgeon’s specific expertise and focus on buccal fat extraction.
  • Procedure Frequency: Research how frequently the surgeon performs bichectomies; high volume often correlates with refined results.
  • Years of Experience: Verify the total years of clinical experience your plastic surgeon possesses.
  • Clinic Longevity: Consider how long the medical facility has been in operation.
  • Google Reviews: Review patient feedback on Google to gauge overall satisfaction and clinical outcomes.
  • Social Media Presence: Examine patient testimonials and case studies on platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
  • Peer/Patient Networking: If possible, reach out to former patients who have undergone the surgery to hear about their first-hand experiences.

Where Can I Have a Bichectomy in Istanbul?

Esteport Clinic is a premier aesthetic surgery center located in the heart of Istanbul, in the prestigious Nişantaşı district. Our clinic is conveniently situated on Vali Konağı Avenue.

We welcome patients from across Turkey and around the globe. Op. Dr. Ali Mezdeği specializes in maxillofacial surgery, otoplasty (prominent ear surgery), and bichectomy. He has been practicing as a prominent surgeon in the field of plastic surgery for 20 years.

Clinic Contact & Location

  • Clinic Name: Esteport Aesthetic Surgery Clinic
  • Location: Nişantaşı, Istanbul
  • Surgeon: Op. Dr. Ali Mezdeği (Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeon)

Bichectomy Surgeon

Bichectomy for Men in Turkey

Bichectomy is not exclusive to women; it is a highly effective procedure for male patients as well, though the aesthetic objectives differ. While women often seek a “V-shaped” taper, the goal for men is typically to achieve a square or rectangular facial silhouette. This procedure focuses on enhancing the definition of the mandibular angles, often referred to as “Jawline Definition.”

The primary objective is not to feminize the face, but rather to establish a more masculine contour. We employ surgical techniques focused on angularity to create a more chiseled appearance. It is important to note that the healing timeline for men may be slightly more prolonged; while results in female patients typically settle within one month, the final masculine contour may take 3 to 4 months to fully manifest.

Combined Procedures

To achieve a more distinct and aesthetic facial structure, bichectomy can be performed in conjunction with mandibular angle sculpting or mentoplasty (chin fillers/augmentation). The necessity of these adjunct procedures is determined on an individual basis. Surgical plans cannot be finalized without a clinical assessment. Therefore, a physical examination by Dr. Ali Mezdeği is mandatory to determine the specific surgical technique and any necessary combination therapies.

Bichectomy Revision in Istanbul

During a primary bichectomy, the buccal fat pad is removed. Because this tissue does not regenerate, the procedure is considered permanent. However, for patients who experience excessive hollowing over time or are dissatisfied with the degree of volume loss, reconstructive solutions are available.

Adipose tissue harvested from other areas of the body can be transferred to the cheek region. This is clinically known as Micro-fat Grafting.

What to Expect from Revision

While fat grafting may not restore the cheek to its exact 100% preoperative state, it effectively mitigates excessive depression and restores necessary volume to the mid-face. For patients who prioritize reducing the depth of the hollow and regaining facial fullness—even if a perfect reversal is not possible—a secondary procedure can be performed. This is referred to as Revision Bichectomy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Since the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, patients are fully unconscious and do not experience any pain during the procedure. Post-operatively, prescribed analgesics (pain relievers) ensure patient comfort. Consequently, significant pain or persistent discomfort is not expected during the recovery phase.

The prominence of the zygomatic (cheekbone) area is critical for facial harmony. Buccal fat removal can be performed concurrently with cheekbone reduction or enhancement. For reduction, approximately 10–12 mm of bone can be excised to narrow the mid-face. Conversely, for patients seeking more definition, the area can be enhanced using dermal fillers or autologous fat grafting.

The core of this surgery is the precise extraction of adipose tissue. When the fat is removed symmetrically and with clinical expertise, the success rate is exceptionally high. In the hands of an aesthetic surgeon who performs this procedure frequently, the surgery is brief, and the outcomes are highly satisfying for the patient.

Technically, there are no contraindications for male patients. The procedure is performed intraorally (inside the mouth) within a clinical hospital setting. While most patients are discharged on the same day, an overnight stay may occasionally be recommended. While bichectomy is statistically more common among women, it is an effective solution for men seeking a more masculine, angular facial structure.

The volume of tissue excised depends on the patient’s aesthetic goals and age.

  • Older Patients: A partial excision is often more prudent. Completely hollowing the cheeks in mature patients can lead to an overly gaunt expression that may prematurely age the face.

  • Younger Patients: Total extraction may yield more effective and dramatic results. However, the exact volume is determined by Dr. Ali Mezdeği following a physical examination and an assessment of the patient’s expectations.

Bichectomy does not accelerate biological aging at a cellular level; however, it may make signs of aging more visible sooner.

  • The Reason: The buccal fat pads provide structural support and a youthful “fullness.” As natural collagen and fat diminish with age, patients who have undergone bichectomy may experience a more pronounced “sunken” or skeletal appearance.

  • Risk Factor: If performed too early (e.g., in one’s early 20s), there is a risk of a prematurely aged look in later decades.

Favorable Facial Types for Long-term Results:

  • Round Faces: Individuals with excessive cheek fullness often see a better balance in facial proportions and enhanced cheekbone definition that ages well.

  • Weight-Prone Individuals: Helps maintain a leaner facial profile despite fluctuations in body weight.

High-Risk Facial Types:

  • Naturally Thin/Long Faces: Removal of the fat pads can result in a tired, gaunt appearance as the patient ages.

  • Sharp Features: May result in an “over-carved” or hollowed aesthetic.

Complications and Clinical Risks

  • Nerve Injury: Damage to the facial nerves is a rare but documented complication. Clinical reports occasionally mention post-operative temporary facial asymmetry or motor dysfunction during speech.

  • Trigeminal Interaction: Some specialists suggest the buccal fat pad serves a protective role for branches of the trigeminal nerve; its removal, though standard, requires anatomical precision to avoid neuralgia risks.

  • Salivary Gland/Duct Injury: Damage to the parotid duct or salivary glands is a rare risk. Monitoring for abnormal salivary flow post-operatively is part of the standard clinical follow-up.

  • Asymmetry: Asymmetry is a common concern. Minor differences in post-operative swelling or healing rates between the left and right sides can occur, though experienced surgical technique minimizes the risk of permanent contour irregularities.

Yes, the results are permanent. Because the buccal fat pads are surgically excised, the process is irreversible. While the removal is permanent, the face will continue to be subject to the natural effects of aging and skin laxity over time. It is imperative to note that bichectomy should only be performed by Aesthetic, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgeons; specialists from other disciplines are not qualified to perform this intraoral procedure.

Contraindications include unrealistic patient expectations, significant fluctuations in body weight, and clinical obesity.

Initial changes are noticeable immediately after surgery; however, postoperative edema (swelling) and minor bruising will temporarily obscure the definition. The most definitive and clear results typically manifest after approximately 3 weeks.

The volume of fat extracted varies by individual. On average, the volume ranges between 3 to 5 cc per side. The precise amount is tailored to the patient’s specific facial anatomy and desired aesthetic outcome.

Bichectomy is designed to create a permanently leaner and more chiseled facial profile. However, the long-term aesthetic evolution depends heavily on individual aging factors.

Potential Outcomes After a Decade:

  • Natural Adipose Reduction: As we age, facial fat pads naturally atrophy and skin elasticity diminishes. In patients who have undergone bichectomy, this combined volume loss may lead to a more hollowed or gaunt appearance.

  • Skeletal Definition: With the reduction of mid-face volume, the underlying bone structure of the zygoma (cheekbones) and mandible becomes more prominent.

  • Perceived Aging Effect: By the age of 40 and beyond, excessive hollowing may contribute to a “fatigued” facial expression in some individuals.

  • Advantages for Specific Face Types: For patients with significant facial fullness, the procedure may continue to provide a balanced and refined silhouette even a decade later.

  • Secondary Procedures: To compensate for excessive hollowing in later years, some patients may require dermal fillers or autologous fat grafting to restore youthful volume.

Summary: 10-year outcomes are influenced by genetics, the biological rate of aging, weight fluctuations, and skin quality. If excessive fat is removed at a very young age, there is a statistical risk of appearing “sunken” in later years.

The topic of Bella Hadid and buccal fat removal has been widely debated, with many attributing her razor-sharp facial contours to this specific procedure.

While the famous model has never officially confirmed undergoing a bichectomy, her dramatic transformation has made the procedure a benchmark for those seeking a highly defined, “sculpted” look. It remains one of the most requested procedures for individuals aiming to replicate such sharp aesthetic features.

Last Update : 25.12.2025