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6 Buccal Fat Removal Alternatives: How to Achieve a Slimmer Face Without Surgery
Lately, there appears to be an influx of content splashed across social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram highlighting the increasingly sculpted cheeks and jawlines of celebrities and influencers. And as Hollywood finds itself under the spotlight and the ever-watchful eyes of fans, talk of dramatic makeovers and questions pertaining to celebrity beauty treatments, like buccal fat removal, have become the norm both online and offline. Many of us might even start to wonder if we need surgery to keep up with current trends or achieve similar results. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to go under the knife for a slimmer, more defined face, and while buccal fat removal might be a popular choice amongst celebrities looking for dramatic results, the procedure requires serious downtime and comes with real risks and potential regrets.
At Bardot Beauty in Calgary, we believe in helping our clients achieve beautiful results without extreme procedures. Whether you’re dealing with facial fullness, looking to define your cheekbones, or just want to feel more confident in your profile, non-surgical facial contouring is a safe, effective way to get there — no scalpels or long recoveries required.
Let’s explore why people are rethinking buccal fat removal, and the six best alternatives that can help you achieve that snatched, sculpted look naturally.
Why Avoid Buccal Fat Removal Surgery?
First, let’s define what buccal fat removal surgery is. Buccal fat refers to the pads of fat located in the hollows of your cheeks, between your cheekbones and jawbones, and the removal of this fat offers a more hollow, contoured look. While the idea might sound tempting, it’s important to understand the downsides before jumping in.
The Cons of Buccal Fat Removal
It’s irreversible: Once that fat is gone, it’s gone for good. That might sound great now — but as we age, we naturally lose volume in the face. Removing too much fat early on can actually make you look older faster.
It can make you look harsh: While a defined face can be beautiful, overdoing it can lead to a gaunt or “sunken” appearance that works against the youthful glow many of us are hoping to achieve.
There are surgical risks: Surgery comes with risk of infection, nerve damage, or asymmetry. Plus, you’ll need to allocate dedicated downtime to heal.
It’s expensive: With most buccal fat surgeries starting around $3,000–$5,000, the procedure represents a significant investment — and results aren’t always guaranteed.
6 Alternatives to Buccal Fat Removal
Want a slimmer face without surgery, risks and extended downtime? Here are six safe, effective, and surgery-free ways to contour your face and reduce facial fullness, available right here in Calgary.
1. Injectable Facial Slimming (Neuromodulators)
What it does: Relaxes the masseter muscles (chewing muscles) to subtly slim the jawline and lower face.
Benefits: Quick, no downtime, and results appear gradually for a subtle, natural look.
Ideal for: Anyone with a square jawline or facial fullness from muscle rather than fat.
2. Dermal Fillers for Cheek Contour
What it does: Adds lift and structure to the cheekbones, enhancing definition and balancing out facial fullness and symmetry without removing fat.
Benefits: Immediate results, customizable, reversible.
Ideal for: Clients seeking a more contoured midface without losing volume elsewhere.
3. Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening
What it does: Uses heat energy to tighten skin, boost collagen, and gently sculpt the face.
Benefits: Painless, no needles, zero downtime, firms sagging skin.
Ideal for: Those with mild to moderate skin laxity or round cheeks.
4. Deoxycholic Acid (Fat Dissolving Injections)
What it does: An injectable treatment that breaks down stubborn fat cells — most commonly used under the chin and jawline.
Benefits: Targets stubborn fat deposits and improves profile definition.
Ideal for: Clients with fullness in the chin, jawline, or jowl area.
5. Facial Slimming with Ultrasound (Ultherapy)
What it does: Uses focused ultrasound to lift and tighten deep layers of skin.
Benefits: Long-lasting lift, stimulates collagen, no incisions.
Ideal for: Mild to moderate fullness and want subtle, natural contouring.
6. Morpheus8
What it does: Combines microneedling with radiofrequency to resurface and tighten skin, while reducing fat in targeted areas.
Benefits: Contours the lower face and jawline, improves skin texture, and stimulates deep collagen.
Ideal for: Clients with mild-to-moderate skin laxity or stubborn facial fat.
A Quick Comparison of Treatments:
| Treatment | Typical Cost (Calgary) | Downtime | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Injectable Facial Slimming (Neuromodulators) | $350 – $650 per session | None | Slimming a square jawline or fullness from muscle |
| Dermal Fillers for Cheek Contour | $650 – $1,200 per syringe | Minimal (1–2 days) | Adding lift, structure, and midface definition |
| RF Skin Tightening | $250 – $600 per session | None | Firming mild skin laxity and sculpting cheeks |
| Deoxycholic Acid (Fat Dissolving Injections) | $600 – $1,200 per session | Swelling for 3–7 days | Reducing chin, jawline, or jowl fat |
| Ultherapy (Ultrasound Skin Tightening) | $1,200 – $3,000 per treatment | None | Lifting and tightening without injections |
| Morpheus8 | $850 – $1,550 per treatment | 1–3 days | Tightening skin, improving texture, reducing fat |
Which Facial Slimming Option is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cosmetic procedures like facial contouring — and that’s a good thing. Your face is unique, and your treatment should reflect that.
At Bardot Beauty in Calgary, we’ll guide you through a personalized consultation to determine the best non-surgical facial contouring approach based on your goals, features, and comfort level. Whether you're looking for a subtle refresh or more defined structure, we're here to help you look and feel your best, no surgery required.
Just remember, you don't need surgery to slim your face.
Buccal fat removal isn’t your only option. With the right combination of safe, non-invasive treatments, you can achieve a beautifully sculpted look that’s 100% you.
Ready to start your non-surgical facial contouring journey?
Book your consultation at Bardot Beauty now!
FAQs
What is the safest alternative to buccal fat removal in Calgary?
The safest alternative depends on your facial structure and goals. At Bardot Beauty, popular non-surgical options include injectable facial slimming, RF skin tightening, and Morpheus8 — all with little to no downtime.
Can I slim my face without surgery?
Yes. Non-invasive treatments like Deoxycholic Acid, Ultherapy, and dermal fillers can contour the cheeks and jawline, creating a slimmer, more defined look without surgery or long recovery times.
How long do results from non-surgical facial contouring last?
Longevity varies by treatment. Neuromodulators can last 4–6 months, fillers 6–18 months, and skin-tightening procedures often last a year or more with proper maintenance.
Is there downtime with non-surgical facial slimming treatments?
Most alternatives have minimal downtime — often just mild redness or swelling for a day or two — unlike buccal fat removal surgery, which requires weeks of recovery.
How much do non-surgical buccal fat removal alternatives cost in Calgary?
Pricing varies by treatment, with options starting around $250 for RF skin tightening and ranging up to $3,000 for Ultherapy. We provide a custom quote after your consultation.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
We recommend booking a personalized consultation at Bardot Beauty. Our Calgary team will assess your facial structure, discuss your goals, and recommend the most effective, safe option for you.