Soft–lukewarm foods in the first days; avoid very hot or spicy foods. Plenty of water, protein, and vitamin C are beneficial.

Bichectomy (Cheek Reduction)

Preserving the natural facial expression while slimming the cheek line is the most critical aspect of this procedure. Dr. Ulvi Hasanov proceeds with measured tissue removal and planning that considers facial aging dynamics for patients seeking cheek reduction in Istanbul. The ultimate goal is not an “excessively thin” appearance, but rather a more defined cheekbone area, a lighter lower face, and a balanced contour.

Personalized approach: During the examination, your facial proportions, jawline, and masseter activity are evaluated together. If necessary, buccal fat removal is planned in combination with masseter Botox, chin tip, or jawline procedures.
Scarless and controlled technique: The buccal fat pad is reduced in a controlled manner through a small incision inside the mouth. The procedure is tissue-respectful; protocols are applied to minimize the risk of asymmetry and excessive thinning.
Transparent communication: The expected contour, recovery steps, and possible risks are clearly explained.
You will experience an accessible and explanatory team at every stage.
Safe infrastructure: Sterile operating room conditions, up-to-date surgical principles, and disciplined postoperative follow-up are standard for fast and predictable recovery.
Medical tourism-friendly process: Time planning, flight-accommodation synchronization, and online pre-evaluation are provided for patients coming from abroad.

If you are looking for a natural, balanced result that is compatible with long-term facial aging, this is a reliable reference point for cheek reduction surgery in Istanbul. If you want to take the first step, call +90 533 239 62 36 for appointments and questions.

What is a Bichectomy?

Bichectomy is a surgical procedure that refines the cheek line and defines the facial oval by controlled reduction of the buccal fat pad beneath the cheekbone. It is performed through a small incision inside the mouth and leaves no scar on the skin. It is not an injection or a dissolving procedure; it is a surgical procedure involving tissue removal, with planning and dosage tailored to the individual. The primary goal for patients seeking cheek reduction in Istanbul is not to “thin” the face, but to achieve a more balanced V-shape/oval by lightening the mid-lower face and defining the area below the cheekbones.

During the examination, your facial proportions, chin tip and jawline, and masseter (chewing muscle) activity are evaluated together. This determines how much buccal fat will be removed and whether it will be planned alone or in combination with masseter Botox, chin tip, or jawline procedures. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia (with sedation when necessary) in sterile operating room conditions, and dissolvable sutures are used.

During the healing process, swelling and mild sensitivity are normal in the first few days. The process progresses comfortably with cold application, keeping the head elevated, and meticulous oral hygiene. The final contour becomes apparent within weeks as the tissues settle. Thanks to proper patient selection and measured technique, a natural slimming effect is achieved without compromising facial expression. In short, your expectation within the scope of bichectomy Istanbul is a scar-free, measured contour that remains natural in the long term.

Who is it suitable for?

Do your full cheeks make you look rounder than you are? If the buccal fat pad under your skin is prominent and you want to slim down your cheeks, you may be a good candidate for cheek reduction surgery in Istanbul. The goal is to define the oval of the face without excessive thinning.

Suitable candidate characteristics

Noticeable fullness under the cheekbone
Good skin elasticity, low tendency to sag
Stable weight range; no plans for rapid weight loss in the near future
Realistic expectations; desire for a “more defined” but natural contour
Good oral and dental hygiene; ability to maintain regular hygiene

Situations requiring caution

Very thin face type, sharp contours: Limited benefit due to risk of excessive thinning
Severe asymmetry or weak cheekbone projection: A combined plan may be necessary instead of a single procedure
Recent major dental treatment, active oral infection, systemic diseases affecting healing
Bleeding–clotting disorders, uncontrolled smoking
Unrealistic expectations or suspected body image disorder

Age and timing

More predictable results are generally achieved in the 20s and 30s.
The procedure may be postponed during periods when significant weight changes are expected.
For patients coming from abroad, cheek reduction surgery in Istanbul planning is based on flight dates; a short recovery window is targeted.

In short

If fullness is particularly noticeable after eating, your lower face appears wide in photos, and your skin elasticity is good, you may be a suitable candidate for bişektomi istanbul. The final decision is made during the examination after evaluating your facial proportions and tissue thickness.

Examination and Personalized Plan

Every face is different; therefore, the plan is personalized. During the initial consultation, we evaluate your facial proportions, cheek fullness, chin tip, and jawline together. If necessary, we look at masseter (chewing muscle) activity and decide whether to perform bichectomy alone or in combination with masseter Botox, chin tip filler, or jawline. The goal is a measured slimming and a natural contour that is consistent with the overall aesthetics of the face.

Our evaluation steps

Cheekbone–midface–lower face balance using standardized photo/video analysis
Determining the volume of the buccal fat pad through clinical examination
Review of skin elasticity, asymmetry, and aging dynamics
Weight fluctuations, dental/oral health, and factors affecting healing

Planning principles

The “no excessive thinning” principle: Natural facial expressions and soft tissue support are preserved.
The goal is to use techniques that are intraoral, scarless, and tissue-friendly.
Appointments are scheduled to coincide with the flight/accommodation schedule of medical tourism patients.
Visual explanations and transparent information are provided to clarify the expected contour.

Result: When you leave the consultation, you will clearly understand what the procedure will offer you, how it is performed, your recovery timeline, and the risk-benefit balance. For appointments and preliminary evaluations under the scope of Bichectomy Istanbul, please call +90 533 239 62 36.

How is the Process Performed?

Bichectomy is the controlled reduction of the buccal fat pad through a small incision made inside the mouth. The Bichectomy Istanbul procedure at our clinic is focused on comfort, hygiene, and predictability.

Anesthesia and preparation

Local anesthesia in most cases; mild sedation if needed.
Antiseptic mouthwash at the start; sterile conditions are standard.

Surgical steps

A small 1–1.5 cm incision is made inside the cheek.
Buccal fat tissue is removed in a measured manner without excessively thinning the facial contours.
Bleeding is controlled; the incision is closed with dissolvable sutures. There is no scarring on the skin.

Duration and discharge

The average procedure time is approximately 30–45 minutes for both sides.
Discharge on the same day is possible; you will be discharged after a short observation period.

Pain and comfort

Pain is usually mild and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Swelling is normal for the first 24–48 hours; cold application and keeping the head elevated are recommended.

Oral hygiene and care

Soft foods, regular oral care, and the recommended mouthwash support healing.
Sutures dissolve on their own; no additional removal is needed.

Safety and naturalness

Nerve and canal structures are preserved; a controlled technique is used to reduce the risk of asymmetry.
The goal is not a sharp contour, but one that is natural and harmonious with your face. This is the essence of our Bichectomy Istanbul approach.

Recovery Process and Timeline

Recovery is predictable and generally comfortable. The following timeline shows the typical progression after bichectomy. Individual variations may occur; the personal instructions provided to you take precedence.

First day

Mild to moderate swelling and tenderness are normal.
Cold application (20 min on – 20 min off) reduces swelling.
Sleep with your head elevated.
Eat soft, warm foods; avoid very hot or spicy foods.
Use antiseptic mouthwash and take your prescription medications according to the instructions.

Days 2–3

This is when the swelling is most noticeable; bruising is rare.
Maintain oral hygiene and brush your teeth gently.
Short walks are fine; avoid strenuous activity.

Days 4–7

Swelling decreases significantly.
Returning to desk work is possible for most people.
Hot saunas/steam rooms, intense sports, swimming pools, and the sea are not yet suitable.

Week 2

Chewing becomes easier, and swelling largely subsides.
You can resume light to moderate exercise.
Sutures continue to dissolve; no additional procedure is required.

Weeks 3–4

The contour gradually becomes clearer.
You can gradually return to your previous level of exercise.
Travel plans become more flexible; medical tourism patients can schedule follow-up appointments online.

Month 2–3

The final result is almost complete.
Fine residual swelling subsides completely and the contour settles.

Tips to Speed Up Healing

Eat a diet rich in water, protein, and vitamin C.
Limit salt and alcohol in the first few weeks.
Smoking slows down healing; quit if possible.
Maintain good oral hygiene; gently rinse your mouth after every meal.
Do not massage your face unless advised to do so; do not strain the suture line.
Sleeping on your back with your head elevated reduces swelling.

When to Contact Us

Increased pain, foul odor, fever, excessive swelling on one side, or sudden asymmetry
Prolonged bleeding, significant limitation in opening the mouth
Complaints that cannot be controlled with prescriptions

For those coming under medical tourism, the flight plan is generally suitable for 3–5 days after the procedure; we will clarify your personal plan during the examination. Our team will follow all control and care steps during your Bichectomy Istanbul process.

Our Strategy for a Natural Outcome

Our goal is not to make your face look sharper; it is to achieve a natural, balanced, and long-lasting aesthetic contour. That is why we proceed with moderation in planning and surgical application.

Moderate tissue removal

Buccal fat tissue is reduced not to a “maximum” extent, but to an optimal amount based on your facial proportions.
The soft tissue support that decreases with age is taken into account; excessive thinning is avoided.

Holistic evaluation of the face

The midface, lower face, and jawline are analyzed together.
If necessary, masseter Botox is planned in combination with the chin tip or jawline; “excessive” expectations are not created with a single procedure.

Reducing the risk of asymmetry

Both sides are measured separately; tissue removal is symmetrical and controlled.
Bleeding control and respect for tissue planes are essential during surgery.

Tissue-respectful technique

A scarless, minimally traumatic approach through the mouth is preferred.
Safety margins are preserved by paying attention to nerve and canal proximity.

Realistic expectation management

The time required for the final contour to emerge is clearly explained.
The target is determined based on the individual’s unique anatomy rather than guided by photographs.

In short, the “less is more” principle applies to our approach to bichectomy Istanbul: a refined slimming that is compatible with your natural facial features. This results in a stylish contour without compromising your expression. When you book an appointment for bichectomy Istanbul, this strategy is customized with your personal data.

Potential Risks and How to Minimize Them?

As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with buccal fat removal; however, with careful planning and experienced hands, these risks are quite low. Our approach to buccal fat removal in Istanbul aims for a predictable and comfortable recovery by strictly adhering to safety protocols.

Possible risks

Infection: Theoretical risk exists due to oral flora.
Asymmetry or excessive thinning: May occur due to excessive/insufficient removal of tissue.
Bleeding/hematoma: Rarely seen in the early stages.
Sensory changes: Temporary numbness is rare; permanent damage is very rare.
Delayed healing/scar tissue: Delayed healing may occur along the intraoral suture line.

How we minimize them

Proper patient selection: Postpone the procedure in very thin faces and in cases of active intraoral problems.
Sterile and systematic surgery: Antiseptic mouthwash, atraumatic tissue technique, bleeding control.
Moderate removal: Not “maximum,” but the optimal amount appropriate for your facial proportions.
Symmetry control: Gradual extraction, with each side evaluated separately.
Post-operative care protocol: Oral hygiene, cold application, medication regimen, and follow-up appointments.

What you can do?

Quit/reduce smoking and alcohol consumption in the first few weeks.
Follow the oral care instructions provided.
Report sudden asymmetry, increased pain, or fever to the clinic immediately.

The right patient selection + measured surgery + meticulous care = predictable results. During your Bichectomy Istanbul appointment, we will evaluate your personal risk profile together and clarify all your questions.

Combined Operations

A single procedure does not always solve everything. For a proportional slimming and definition of the lower-middle part of the face, cheek reduction is often more effective when combined with other procedures. In our cheek reduction Istanbul approach, we create personalized combination plans.

Lower face slimming with masseter Botox

If the chewing muscle is prominent and the face appears wide in profile, masseter Botox complements Bichectomy.
It can be performed during the same session; the effect becomes noticeable in 1–2 weeks.
Goal: To slim the chin line while lightening the area under the cheekbones.

Chin tip filler and jawline shaping

A weak chin projection can make the face appear “rounder.”
A fine dose of chin tip/jawline filler clarifies the contour line.
In most patients, the filler is planned 2–4 weeks after buccal fat removal, when the edema has subsided (in some patients, the same session is also suitable).

Midface support (cheekbones/zygomatic)

If cheekbone projection is weak, mild midface support accentuates the V-shape.
Low volume and anatomical planning are used to avoid “excessive sharpness.”

Holistic balance with rhinoplasty

When the nose–chin–lower face triangle is evaluated together, in some patients, a slight reduction of the lower face after rhinoplasty can make the face appear more refined.
Surgical combinations are planned sequentially according to patient safety and the recovery schedule.

Timing and planning tips

Same-day combination: Bichectomy + masseter Botox (if appropriate).
2–4 weeks later: Fillers (more accurate dosage when swelling subsides).
Sports and strenuous exercise: Gradual return according to the protocol between procedures.

The decision to combine procedures is based on your facial proportions and the desired outcome. The goal is not to “tighten” a single point, but to balance the face as a whole. During your Bichectomy Istanbul appointment, we will plan the most logical sequence for you together.

The Permanence of the Result and Expectations

The tissue removed during a bisectomy does not grow back; therefore, the results are permanent. However, your face will still be affected by weight changes and the aging process. That’s why our goal is to achieve a contour that looks good today and remains natural over the years.

Timeline

Swelling may obscure the contour in the first few weeks.
Contour becomes noticeable in 4–6 weeks, with final lines appearing in 2–3 months.
Minor asymmetries usually balance out as the tissue settles.

Effect of weight and lifestyle

Rapid weight gain or loss can affect the overall volume of the face.
A balanced diet and stable weight maintain the result.
Regular oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle accelerate healing.

The key to a natural look

Extraction without excessive thinning, preserving facial expressions.
Planning the mid-lower face and jawline together.
Balance with masseter Botox or minimal contour support when necessary.

How we manage your expectations

During the consultation, we visualize the target contour using photos and a mirror.
A “fuller” appearance is normal in the first few weeks; please be patient.
We perform the final evaluation in the 2nd–3rd month and plan fine adjustments if necessary.

A permanent, scar-free, and moderate reduction is possible with the right patient selection and technique. Our goal in your Bichectomy Istanbul process is to refine the area under the cheekbones and lighten the lower face while preserving your facial character. For questions and appointments, call +90 533 239 62 36.

Why Should You Take Action Now?

If the fullness you see in the mirror bothers you, a small touch with the right planning can have a big impact. We offer a scar-free, measured, and safe approach under the scope of Bichectomy Istanbul; prolonging the decision-making process often only prolongs dissatisfaction.

Benefits of taking action today

You clarify your goals: Your facial proportions and expectations become concrete during the consultation.
You get the timing right: We create a personal recovery schedule based on your vacation, work, and flight plans.
You avoid unnecessary procedures: A combined plan if necessary, or a “single and essential” approach if not.
A culture of natural results: A refined contour that preserves your facial expression without excessive thinning.

Options for the first step

Let’s clarify whether you are a suitable candidate with a short preliminary consultation.
Visualize your target contour by reviewing the before-and-after gallery.
If you are coming from abroad, we can suggest a practical schedule for your flight and accommodation.

If you are ready, contact us with a set of photos and brief notes about your goals. Let’s plan your Bichectomy Istanbul journey according to your lifestyle.

We are here to answer your questions and clarify your personal plan. With a brief preliminary assessment, let’s discuss together whether you are a suitable candidate, how the process and recovery schedule will unfold. It’s very easy to make an appointment for Bichectomy Istanbul:

Quick contact

Phone: +90 533 239 62 36
Email/Form: Our appointment assistant will contact you upon your request.

Preparing for your appointment

3–5 photos taken in daylight (front view, right/left half profile).
Brief medical history: Allergies, regular medications, recent dental treatments.
Suitable date range: Work/school holidays, flight schedule (for those coming from abroad).

Medical tourism support

Planning aligned with your flight and accommodation schedule.
Online preliminary consultation and post-procedure online follow-up.
Multilingual patient coordination.

Take the first step towards a natural, seamless, and measured contour. Call or message us on WhatsApp to schedule your Bichectomy Istanbul appointment or get more information. Let’s clarify your goals in a short consultation and create the right plan for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is buccal fat removal?

It is a surgical procedure that slims the cheek line by controlled reduction of buccal fat from inside the mouth; it leaves no scar on the skin.

Who is it suitable for?

It is suitable for people with full cheeks, good skin elasticity, and stable weight. It provides limited benefit on very thin faces.

At what age can it be performed?

It is generally preferred after the age of 20; personal assessment is made during the examination.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Mostly local anesthesia; mild sedation if necessary.

Is it painful?

It is usually mild; prescription painkillers are sufficient.

Will there be any scarring?

No. The incision is inside the mouth; there is no scarring on the skin.

How long does recovery take?

Swelling is normal during the first week. Most people return to desk work within a few days; the contour becomes apparent in 4–6 weeks.

When can I return to sports and my daily routine?

Light walks from the 2nd–3rd day; intense sports after the 2nd week, with your doctor’s approval.

Is swelling and slight asymmetry normal?

It may occur in the early stages; it usually evens out within 2–3 months as the tissues settle.

Are the results permanent?

Yes. The removed buccal fat does not return; however, weight changes can affect the overall volume of the face.

Can other procedures be performed during the same session?

Yes. If appropriate, masseter Botox can be performed on the same day; chin/jawline filler is usually planned 2–4 weeks later.

Can it be performed together with rhinoplasty?

It is possible on a case-by-case basis; sequencing is recommended based on safety and recovery schedule.

Can it be done while undergoing dental treatment or orthodontics?

It is necessary to wait if there is an active infection or after a new implant/surgery. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis when braces are present.

When can I fly?

It is generally suitable after 3-5 days; the personal plan is clarified during the examination.

How does smoking and alcohol consumption affect it?

It delays healing and increases the risk of infection. It is recommended to avoid it in the first weeks.

How should I eat?

Soft–lukewarm foods in the first days; avoid very hot/spicy foods. Plenty of water, protein, and vitamin C are beneficial.

What are the signs of complications?

Increased pain, fever, foul odor, excessive swelling on one side, or prolonged bleeding. In this case, contact the clinic.

Is revision necessary?

Rarely. The final evaluation is performed in the 2nd–3rd month; if necessary, it is planned individually.

How is the price determined?

It is determined on an individual basis according to facial proportions, clinical conditions, and possible combinations; an examination is required for clarification.

Is it suitable for male patients?

Yes; natural and moderate refinement provides a refined contour on the male face as well.

Can it be performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No; evaluation is conducted after these periods have passed.