Bichectomy in Istanbul
Bichectomy, or buccal fat removal, reduces fullness in the lower cheeks to create a slimmer, more defined facial contour. Dr. Semih Yıldız plans the amount of removal carefully to avoid a hollow look in later years.
AT A GLANCE
Anaesthesia: Local with sedation or general
Operation time: 30–60 minutes
Hospital stay: Same day
Stay in Istanbul: About 3–5 days
Back to work: 3–5 days
Final result: 3–6 months
What is bichectomy?
Bichectomy, also called buccal fat removal or cheek reduction, removes part of the buccal fat pads, which sit deep in the lower cheeks. It slims round or full cheeks and enhances the definition of the cheekbones and jawline.
The incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars on the face.
Who is a good candidate?
- Healthy adults with full or round lower cheeks
- People at a stable weight whose cheek fullness does not improve with weight loss
- Patients who want a slimmer, more contoured face
- Anyone with realistic expectations who can stop smoking before and after surgery
People with a naturally thin face may not be suitable, because removing too much fat can make the face look hollow with age.
Bichectomy techniques
The amount of fat removed is tailored to your face shape.
Intraoral bichectomy
The buccal fat pad is reached through a small incision inside the cheek and a planned amount is removed.
Combined procedures
Bichectomy can be combined with double chin liposuction, chin augmentation or a facelift for a balanced facial contour.
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How the operation is performed
- Planning: your photos, medical history and goals are reviewed and the plan is agreed before the day of surgery.
- Anaesthesia: the operation is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia and usually takes 30–60 minutes.
- Incision: a small incision is made inside each cheek.
- Removal: a planned amount of the buccal fat pad is gently removed.
- Closing: the incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches.
- Aftercare: most patients go to their hotel on the same day.
Recovery timeline
First 2–3 days: The cheeks feel swollen and tight. Soft food and careful mouth hygiene are recommended.
Around day 3–5: A check-up is completed and most patients are cleared to fly home.
Days 3–5: Most patients return to desk work.
Weeks 2–3: Most of the swelling has settled and a normal diet resumes.
Month 1: The slimmer cheek contour becomes visible.
Months 3–6: The final result appears as the remaining swelling resolves.
How to prepare
- Stop smoking and nicotine products at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.
- Tell us about all medicines and supplements; blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil and some herbal products may need to be paused.
- Have a dental check-up and treat any gum or tooth infection before surgery.
- Send clear front and side photos of your face for the online assessment.
- Plan about 3–5 days in Istanbul and 3–5 days away from work.
Risks and possible complications
Every operation carries risk. Possible complications of bichectomy include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Prolonged swelling
- Asymmetry
- A hollow appearance if too much fat is removed or with ageing
- Rarely, injury to the salivary duct or facial nerve branches
- The need for revision or fat transfer
Benefits, limitations and alternatives are discussed in detail during your consultation and informed consent.
Your bichectomy journey in Istanbul
Before you travel
Share your photos and medical history for an online consultation. You receive a personalised plan and a written quotation before booking.
Surgery day
After pre-operative tests and a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Semih Yıldız, the operation takes place on the same day.
Recovery in Istanbul
You recover at your hotel and return for a check-up. Most patients are cleared to fly home within a few days.
Back home
Follow-up continues remotely through photos and video calls, so your progress is monitored after you return home.
Bichectomy cost in Istanbul
Bichectomy (buccal fat removal) prices in Turkey start from €940 under local anaesthesia; general anaesthesia adds up to €700. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment. You receive a written quotation with clear package details.
The surgery price includes hospital fees, anaesthesia, implants where required for the procedure, follow-up checks, medications and any required compression garments. Hotel accommodation and transfers are not included.
Frequently asked questions
How much does bichectomy in Istanbul cost?
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In Turkey, bichectomy (buccal fat removal) prices start from €940 under local anaesthesia; general anaesthesia adds up to €700. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment.
Will I have visible scars?
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No. The incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no scars on the face.
When will I see the result?
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The cheeks look swollen at first. The slimmer contour becomes visible after about a month and the final result appears over 3–6 months.
How long should I stay in Istanbul?
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Most international patients stay about 3–5 days.
When can I go back to work?
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Most people return to desk work after 3–5 days.
Will my face look hollow later?
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Only a planned amount of fat is removed, and patients with naturally thin faces are not advised to have the procedure, to avoid a hollow look with age.
Is the result permanent?
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Yes. The removed fat does not grow back, although the face continues to change with age and weight.
This page provides general information and does not replace a medical examination.
Related guides
Who is a good candidate for buccal fat removal (bichectomy)?
Bichectomy recovery: swelling, eating and when you see results